As we prepare to enter our fifth year at the PHL Service Design Studio, we’re thrilled to expand our team by welcoming more incredible service designers and researcher-evaluators. Consider applying to be a part of SDS! 


About us 

The PHL Service Design Studio (SDS) is part of the City of Philadelphia’s Office of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Our mission is to make government services more accessible, equitable, and trauma-responsive for Philadelphians—especially those who’ve historically been marginalized by government actions. We collaborate closely with community members and City staff across levels and departments to design, test, and implement service improvements that meet the diverse needs of Philadelphians.  

Our work and how we work is guided by core values that include centering lived experiences, fostering collaboration and accountability, and driving transformation towards more lasting change. 

Learn more about our work through our annual reports and case studies.


Open positions  

We’re currently hiring three roles: 

  • Senior Service Design Strategist: This mid- to senior-level position involves leading complex service design projects from start to finish. The Senior Service Design Strategist will be responsible for managing multiple projects, developing strategic recommendations, and working with stakeholders to implement service improvements at scale. A strong background in service design and experience navigating organizational change is essential. For more information and to apply, access the job description on Smart Recruiters.
  • Senior Data Analyst: The emerging- to mid-level Senior Data Analyst position is ideal for those with a strong background in quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation. The role involves supporting service design projects through in-depth analysis and developing insights that guide decision-making. We’ll post this job description soon.
  • Service Designer: This is an early-career role that focuses on supporting service improvement initiatives and developing deliverables in collaboration with senior strategists and other stakeholders. The Service Designer will contribute to research, design strategy, prototyping, and implementation efforts. This role is well-suited for professionals with at least three years of professional experience. For more information and to apply, access the job description on Smart Recruiters. 


Considerations before you apply 

We prioritize transparency in our hiring process and want to provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision. 

  • To maintain fairness in our hiring process, we will not be conducting one-on-one informational sessions with professional peers while recruitment is ongoing. 
  • Salaries are included in the job descriptions for each position. 
  • Successful candidates must relocate to Philadelphia within six months of being hired.  
  • City of Philadelphia employees work in the office five days a week. However, flexibilities exist with your schedule. 


How to apply 

Applications for the Strategist and Designer roles are due by Wednesday, November 6, 2024, by midnight ET. To apply, submit the following through Smart Recruiters (links above): 

  • A cover letter that highlights the values that drive your work and relevant experience (no more than 300 words). 
  • Your resume or curriculum vitae. 
  • At least three work samples that demonstrate your expertise in the relevant field, such as reports, strategy documents, or research findings. 

The hiring process includes an initial application review by the hiring committee, a virtual interview and portfolio review, and a final interview with SDS and CAO leadership. We aim to have the new hires start in January 2025.  

If you’re passionate about making equity-centered impact in Philadelphia through public interest service design, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every single requirement listed in the job descriptions. We believe diverse experiences and perspectives are essential to building the strongest teams.

For more information about SDS and our work, visit our website at phila.gov/service-design-studio.