What is the difference between a city that is civil service and one that is not?

[xstalkrx]

Can somebody explain this please?

[CaptBrass]

Civil Service offers more protections against being fired without reason.
It also provides for promotions based upon seniority vs merit (in some cities)

Without Civil service protection, you are basically an At-will employee.

They don't like you, your fired. With it, they need to fire you "in good faith" meaning that their reasons are fair and just.

Hope this helps
6 year civil service board member