Returning to the PMG, McGlinn became deputy State Engineer (lines) for New South Wales. He was appointed a commissioner of the Public Service Board in 1923, and served until 1930. He was chairman of the Commonwealth (AIF) Canteens Trust Fund. In 1935–1942 he was a member of the State War Council of Victoria. He died on 7 July 1946 and was buried at St Kilda Cemetery with full military honours. He was survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.