Bridge Maintenance/Inspection Worker Trainee

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and opportunities to grow and excel.

About the Role

This is bridge maintenance or inspection work at the trainee level. Employees perform work in the Streets Department in one of two areas of assignment: Bridge Maintenance or Bridge Safety Inspection.

• Bridge Maintenance: Learn methods, practices, and techniques of several construction trades such as electrical, mechanical, plumbing, masonry, painting, carpentry, structural ironwork, and welding. Focus on one trade while performing helper duties in others. Gain knowledge of materials, tools, and equipment used in bridge maintenance and repair.
• Bridge Safety Inspection: Learn methods and techniques for inspecting contractual bridge repair work following Federal and State specifications. Develop skills in investigating complaints and accidents involving bridge structures, implementing safe traffic control setups, and making repair recommendations.

Work involves conditions that can be only partially controlled, including working at dangerous heights, near high voltage lines, in inclement weather, in rivers and streams, and frequently exerting strenuous physical effort. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Bridge Maintenance Supervisor or a Bridge Safety Inspection Supervisor.

Requirements

• Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade (High School/GED).
• One of the following experience options:
  • Two years of experience as a helper or apprentice in any building or construction trade, or in bridge design, bridge maintenance, bridge construction, or bridge inspection.
  • Two years of experience as a Semi-Skilled Laborer performing streets and highway maintenance and repair work in the Highways Division.
• Candidates must meet requirements within 30 days after the last date for filing applications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and benefits.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Inclusive and diverse work environment.

Residency and Preferences

• Residency Requirement: Philadelphia residency is not required to apply, but applicants must have established bona fide residency in the City of Philadelphia for one year prior to appointment.
• Preference for Philadelphia Residents: Candidates with one year of bona fide Philadelphia residency prior to the exam date receive priority for identical test scores.
• Preference Points: Additional points may be added to final scores for:
  • U.S. Veterans (10 points for honorably discharged veterans; spouses of disabled or deceased veterans may also qualify).
  • Legacy Preference (10 points for children or grandchildren of Philadelphia Firefighters or Police Officers killed or died in the line of duty).
  • National Volunteer Service (up to 5 points for service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC, AmeriCorps VISTA, or AmeriCorps State and National).
  • Philadelphia School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) graduates (up to 5 points for completing a CTE program within the last three years).
• Indebtedness Notice: As a condition of employment, candidates must certify they are current on all debts, taxes, fees, or judgments owed to the City of Philadelphia or Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), or have entered into a payment agreement.

Exam Information

• This position requires a written eSkill multiple-choice examination, projected for 09/10/2026 (subject to change).
• Candidates need access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access to take the exam. Alternative arrangements can be made if needed.
• An Eligible List will be established the week of 09/21/2026 (subject to change).
• Candidates may review their test and file appeals within 30 days after results are mailed.