Graduate Chemist

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 beginning-level analytical chemistry work. Employees perform assignments of limited scope and complexity to develop knowledge and skills required for analytical chemistry. Work involves handling hazardous substances and is performed under close supervision of a higher-level chemist or engineer.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and benefits
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer

Requirements

• Ability to physically perform the duties and work in the environmental conditions required for the position
• Possession of a valid Pennsylvania motor vehicle operator’s license (if required by work assignment)

Qualifications

Candidates who meet all eligibility requirements within 9 months (by June 6, 2027) of the application deadline will be admitted to this examination. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list but may not be hired until all requirements are satisfied.

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree in environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, chemistry, forensic chemistry, forensic toxicology, physical chemistry, inorganic or organic chemistry, physics, or materials science OR
• Completion of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum equivalent of 34 semester hours in toxicology, chemistry, or biochemistry

Transcripts must be submitted at the time of application. Candidates with foreign degrees must provide a professional evaluation certifying the degree.

Exam Information

• Projected exam date: September 29, 2026 (subject to change)
• Eligible list established the week of October 12, 2026 (subject to change)
• Candidates will need access to a desktop computer or laptop with internet access; alternative arrangements will be made for those without access
• Test review available within 30 days after results are mailed

Residency & Preferences

• Residency Waiver: Non-residents may apply, but must establish Philadelphia residency within one year of appointment
• Philadelphia Resident Preference: Candidates residing in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the exam date receive priority for identical test scores
• Preference Points:
  • U.S. Veterans: 10 points (honorable discharge required; DD214 or NGB-22 must be submitted)
  • Legacy Preference: 10 points for children/grandchildren of Philadelphia Firefighters or Police Officers killed or died in the line of duty
  • National Volunteer Service: Up to 5 points for Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC/FEMA Corps, or AmeriCorps VISTA service (points vary by hours/term completed)
  • Philadelphia School District CTE: Up to 5 points for graduates of a career technical education program within the last three years (ranked below veterans if applicable)
• Indebtedness Notice: Employment conditional on being current with debts to the City or PGW, or having a payment agreement in place