Architectural Projects Trainee

About the Role

This is beginning-level architectural work developing knowledge and abilities in the architectural field. Employees in this class perform assignments of limited but increasing scope and complexity. Work is performed under the supervision of a higher-level architect. Assignments require evaluative thinking and are carried out in accordance with standard architectural practices and general work instructions. Complete work is used by others to further architectural projects.

Requirements

• Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university in architecture, architectural engineering, or a closely related field.
• Ability to meet the approved minimal physical and medical standards.
• Candidates must submit a copy of their official college or university transcript(s) indicating completion of the educational requirement and all required licenses, registrations, or certifications at the time of application. Transcripts must indicate conferral of the appropriate degree.
• Candidates with a degree from foreign colleges or universities must submit proof of degree as certified by a professional evaluation service.
• If you have ever submitted a paper transcript, license, registration, or certification for any City of Philadelphia civil service examination, you must submit another document.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and benefits.
• The City of Philadelphia is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.

Preferences and Additional Information

Candidates who pass the exam may be eligible for additional preference points added to their final score. Preference points may be claimed from the time of application until 30 days after the eligible list is established. Required documentation must be provided to receive the points.

• U.S. Veteran's Preference: Ten points will be added to the scores of eligible veterans. You must be honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces. Attach a DD214, member 4, or NGB-22 to your application. Spouses of disabled or deceased veterans may also be considered.
• Legacy Preference: Ten points will be added to the scores of the children or grandchildren of Philadelphia Firefighters or Police Officers who were killed or died in the line of duty.
• National Volunteer Service Preference: Up to 5 points will be added to the score of candidates who have successfully completed a term of volunteer service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC (including FEMA Corps), or AmeriCorps VISTA, or at least 450 hours of service with AmeriCorps State and National (including Teach for America).
• Philadelphia School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) Preference: Up to 5 points will be added to the score of candidates who have completed and graduated from a CTE program of the School District of Philadelphia within the last three years before the examination announcement date.

Residency Waiver: The Civil Service Commission has waived the usual requirement that candidates must be residents of Philadelphia for one year prior to appointment. Establishment of residency in Philadelphia will be required no later than one year after appointment.

Preference for Philadelphia Residents: Candidates who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the civil service examination shall have priority over all other people receiving an identical test score.

Indebtedness Notice: As a condition of employment, any person offered employment must certify they are fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts due and owing to the City or Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), or have voluntarily entered into a payment agreement.

Exam Information

This examination uses a Modified Training and Experience Evaluation. Approved applicants will receive a score of 70 and any additional preference points and be ranked on the eligible list. Applicants will not be asked to appear for a scheduled examination. An eligible list will be established the week of 9/21/2026. Candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and file appeals to the key answers.