New Hiring Bus aims to help residents apply for city jobs – Metro Philadelphia

Philadelphians may be able to apply for a city job the next time they attend a community event.

Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration has launched a “Hiring Bus” in an attempt to attract more municipal employees and ease the application process for residents.

The bus is being stationed at neighborhood gatherings, officials said, providing the public with information about open positions. Interested applicants are able to receive step-by-step guidance as they complete paperwork on-site, according to the Parker administration.

“We are bringing the job application process directly to the people, providing the resources and support needed to help residents start or advance their careers in public service,” Parker said in a statement.

Through June, 17% of city jobs were vacant, with the hundreds of open slots available within the fire, Free Library of Philadelphia, police, prisons, parks and recreation, public health, sheriff and streets departments, according to the most recent city managers report.

The Hiring Bus has already made a few stops, appearing at the 19th District Police Advisory Council Fish Fry and Wingohocking Neighbors Day earlier this month, officials said.

“With a few events already in the rearview mirror, the hiring bus will be present at community events across the city, with goals of reaching every neighborhood,” said Michael Zaccagni, the city’s chief human resources officer.

Residents can submit a virtual request for the bus to come to an event by going to phila.gov/departments/office-of-human-resources.