Trades Helper (HVAC)

About the Role

This is routine work assisting a full performance worker in a specific trade. Tasks become more complex as the helper progresses in skill. Assignments are well defined in nature. An employee in this class is expected to perform assignments according to detailed instructions. Work involves moderate physical efforts on a continuous basis and some undesirable working conditions that can be controlled by precautionary methods or devices. Work is performed under the continuous supervision of a full-performance trades superior.

Requirements

• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade (High School/GED).
• Six months of experience in the trade specialty.
• Successful completion of a certified apprenticeship program or completion of a Philadelphia School District Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in the trade specialty may substitute for the six months of experience.
• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.
• Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment.

Benefits

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

The City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work. We offer a vibrant work environment and opportunities for growth and professional development.

Pay & Schedule

Projected exam date: September 9, 2026. An Eligible List will be established the week of September 21, 2026. Candidates must meet requirements within 30 days (by 9/15/2026) after the last date for filing applications.

Residency & Preferences

• Residency Requirement: 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 any candidate who has successfully completed a term of volunteer service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC (including FEMA Corps), or AmeriCorps VISTA.
• Philadelphia School District Career and Technical Education Preference: Up to 5 points will be added to the score of candidates who have completed and graduated from a career technical education (CTE) program of the School District of Philadelphia within the last three years before the examination announcement date.

Additional Notes

• Only an Open-Competitive eligible list will be established as a result of this examination. Permanent City employees will receive no promotional preference.
• 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.
• As a condition of employment, candidates must certify they are current on all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other obligations due to the City of Philadelphia or have entered into a payment agreement. Failure to comply will result in cancellation of appointment.
• Candidates must submit a copy of their license, registration, or certification (e.g., transcript, DD214, or proof of volunteer service) to claim preference points or meet requirements.
• Test reviews and appeals may be filed within 30 days after results are mailed.