Technical Support Specialist

A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. 
As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What We Offer:
•    Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
•    Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
•    Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
•    Benefits - We care about your well-being.
 

The Office of Innovation & Technology (OIT) is the central IT agency for the City of Philadelphia headed by the Chief Information Officer (CIO). OIT oversees all major information and communications technology initiatives for the City of Philadelphia - increasing the effectiveness of the information technology infrastructure, where the services provided are advanced, optimized, and responsive to the needs of the City of Philadelphia’s businesses, residents, and visitors. OIT responsibilities include: identifying the most effective approach for implementing new information technology directions throughout city government; improving the value of the city’s technology assets and the return on the city’s technology investments; ensuring data security continuity; planning for continuing operations in the event of disruption of information technology or communications services; and supporting accountable, efficient and effective government across every city department, board, commission and agency.

The Technical Support Specialist provides hands-on support for end-user technology needs across City departments. This role focuses on installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting hardware, software, and network-related issues, as well as assisting with system upgrades, deployments, and user training. The ideal candidate has strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. They will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, delivering excellent technical support while providing exceptional customer service to staff, vendors, and executive management.

Essential Functions

Technical Support

• Provide first-level and advanced support for desktops, laptops, printers, and related peripherals.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues via in-person, phone, email, or ticketing systems, escalating when appropriate.
• Perform data backup, restoration, and file recovery as needed.
• Coordinate equipment provisioning, maintenance, and repairs with vendors and service providers.

System Administration

• Install, configure, test, and deploy hardware, software, and operating system updates.
• Administer and monitor IT systems, user accounts, permissions, and security settings (training provided as needed).
• Participate in periodic inventory audits of technology equipment and software licenses.

Documentation & Training

• Develop and maintain user guides, training materials, and Knowledge Base documentation.
• Train and assist staff in the proper use of technology, applications, and tools.

Customer Service & Professional Development

• Provide exceptional customer service while engaging with end users, colleagues, vendors, and management.
• Stay current with trends in information technology, hardware, software, and industry best practices.
• Track, monitor, and document support activities accurately in the City’s ticketing system.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The ideal candidate is a reliable, detail-oriented IT professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys solving problems. They are customer-focused, communicate clearly, and can translate technical concepts into language that non-technical staff can understand. They are adaptable, eager to learn, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Technical Support

• Strong troubleshooting skills for desktops, laptops, printers, peripherals, and connectivity issues.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve both hardware and software problems efficiently.
• Familiarity with data backup, recovery, and file management best practices.

System Administration

• Knowledge of account setup, permissions, and basic IT security protocols.
• Proficiency in installing, configuring, and updating hardware, software, and operating systems.
• Possess an understanding of asset management, inventory tracking, and software licensing.

Documentation & Training

• Ability to create clear user guides, technical documentation, and Knowledge Base articles.
• Skilled at training and supporting staff with varying levels of technical proficiency.

Customer Service & Collaboration

• Demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
• Provides excellent customer service with patience and clarity.
• Effective communicator (written and verbal) with staff, management, and vendors.
• Works well independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

Professional Growth

• Commitment to staying current with trends in information technology, hardware, and software.
• Adaptability to learn and support new systems, applications, and tools as they are adopted by the City.

The successful candidate must have a high school diploma or equivalent; an associate’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

Applicants should have 1–3 years of progressive experience providing technical support for hardware, software, and end-user technology in a professional setting. Experience in a large organization, IT Help Desk, or call center environment is strongly preferred, as it demonstrates the ability to manage high volumes of support requests and work with diverse users.

Government or public-sector experience is a plus, as familiarity with organizational processes, policies, and security requirements can be valuable in supporting City technology systems. Candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a commitment to providing exceptional customer service in a fast-paced environment

Salary: $40k-$50k

Important: To be considered, candidates must provide a cover letter and resume.

All applications should include the following: 
•    A one-page cover letter clarifying your interest and qualifications for the role. It really helps us understand why you’re interested in this position. We read every single one!
•    Your resume or curriculum vitae. 
•    Optionally, an online professional portfolio or public GitHub account.

We won’t accept or review incomplete applications.
 

Work Setting: in-person (onsite)

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
•    We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
•    Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
•    Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
•    Generous retirement savings options are available
•    Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
•    Enjoy a Free Commute on SEPTA - Starting September 1, 2023, eligible City employees will no longer have to worry about paying for SEPTA public transportation. Whether you're a full-time, part-time, or provisional employee, you can seize the opportunity to sign up for the SEPTA Key Advantage Program and receive free Key cards for free rides on SEPTA buses, trains, trolleys, and regional rails.
•    Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!
Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to [email protected].