Recreation Leader Trainee (General) (Bilingual)

About the Role

This is entry-level recreation work. Employees in this class learn to administer a limited program of activities for the public and provide recreational services and facilities for organized groups. Work includes responsibility for the organization and implementation of assigned programs and for participating with other recreation personnel in providing recreation services. Employees may perform recreation program assignments for a large residential institution or correctional system.

Determining community recreation needs and interests, promoting programs, learning how to manage funds to support program needs, and motivating participation are of major significance to the work. As the training period progresses, the employee is assigned work of greater complexity and responsibility. Duties require scheduled evening and weekend work and moderate physical effort. Work is performed under the supervision of a recreation center supervisor.

Benefits

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

Residency Requirements

Philadelphia residency is not required to submit an application; however, applicants must have established bona fide residency in the City of Philadelphia for one year prior to appointment.

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. Documentation of residence may be required.

Indebtedness Notice

As a condition of employment with the City, any person offered employment shall be required to certify that they are fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts and obligations due and owing to the City or the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW). Alternatively, they may voluntarily enter into a payment agreement. Failure to comply may result in cancellation of the appointment.

Preference Points

Candidates who pass Open-Competitive exams may be eligible for additional 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. The 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. Spouses of disabled or deceased veterans may also be considered. A DD214, member 4, or NGB-22 must be attached to the application.
• 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 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.
• Bilingual Specialty: Candidates who have verified ability to communicate fluently in any non-English language or in American Sign Language will have 3 points added to their final score.

Exam Information

Only an Open-Competitive eligible list will be established as a result of this examination. Permanent City employees will receive no promotional preference in this examination. Candidates who pass the exam and are placed on the civil service list will be retained for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years.

This examination will be scheduled for September 30, 2026, and is subject to change. Candidates will need access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access to take the examination.

For the bilingual specialty, candidates must pass a qualifying examination as verification of their ability to communicate fluently in a non-English language or in American Sign Language.

Contact Information

The analyst responsible for reviewing applications is Jacky Li.

City of Philadelphia – Office of Human Resources
1401 JFK Blvd., Room 1530
Philadelphia, PA 19102-1675
Phone: 215-686-2371
Fax: 215-686-0861
Email: jacky.li@phila.gov

For all other inquiries, contact Customer Service at 215-686-0880 or email hrhelpdesk@phila.gov.