PHILADELPHIA- On this Veteran’s Day, the City’s Office of Human Resources reminds Philadelphia veterans that the City offers a hiring preference for those who have served in the nation’s military.

“While we have had success hiring veterans, we know that some veterans are simply unaware of the preference given to them in the City’s civil service system,” said Pedro Rodriguez, Director of the City’s Office of Human Resources, which oversees hiring for approximately 25,000 civil service positions.  “We urge all veterans who are interested in a rewarding work experience with one of the largest employers in southeastern Pennsylvania to take advantage of this preference.”

Civil Service Regulations authorize Veterans’ Preference in Civil Service employment hiring. Veterans are awarded ten points if they meet certain criteria by providing sufficient proof of service and passing the Civil Service exam. The ten points are awarded only on Open-Competitive exams and may be transferred to a spouse or widow.  If a Veteran and a non-Veteran are the top two ranking candidates certified out from an eligible list, the Veteran must be appointed under the preference.

“It’s no wonder major employers like the City of Philadelphia are competing to hire veterans: they’re organized, decisive, determined, and proactive,” said incoming Veterans Advisory Commission Director Carlo Aragoncillo. “Whether you’re a veteran or just have the honor of knowing one, spread the word that working for the City of Philadelphia is a rewarding way to continue service to others!”

For eligible lists from 2012 through 2017 year to date, 5,432 candidates were awarded points for Veterans’ Preference.  More than 900 candidates per year were awarded Veterans’ Preference on average over that period.  Most Veterans were hired as a Police Officer, Laborer or Firefighter.  The Veterans hired by the City of Philadelphia are more diverse than the general makeup of the US Armed Forces.