Job Title: Fingerprint Technician 2 (in-training) Hiring Pool

Description
This recruitment will be used to establish an agency applicant pool to fill vacant positions as they occur.
 Due to the unique hiring process for our applicant pools, it is not unusual to experience lengthy delays in communication or notification of your application status.
We appreciate your patience and look forward to considering you for a position with our agency. 
 

Are you looking for:
Excellent benefits? Career growth opportunities? Opportunities to impact your community? A culture of respect, commitment and trust? Work/Life balance opportunities such as: Infants at Work Telework Alternate Work Schedules Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. For information on this program click on Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program . An opportunity to be part of a team of dedicated professionals responsible for providing safety and security to the citizens of the State of Washington?
About the Agency:
The Washington State Patrol is a nationally accredited law enforcement agency made up of dedicated professionals who work hard to improve the quality of life of our citizens and prevent the unnecessary loss of life on a daily basis.

Troopers patrolling the highways are the most visible part of this agency.  However, there are over 1,200 civilian employees who serve behind the scenes supporting the agency mission.  To name just a few, we have: 911 dispatchers who are the critical vital link between calls for assistance and emergency response; Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers that work to inspect commercial vehicles to ensure safe and efficient travel on public highways; Deputy State Fire Marshals who help prevent fires in homes and workplaces; Forensic Scientists who process evidence that assists in prosecuting criminal cases; Records staff that process criminal information to ensure crimes are reported accurately so that offenders do not end up working with vulnerable people; Administrative staff who provide exceptional customer service and respond to information requests while ensuring the agency runs smoothly and efficiently.
Apply today and join us in providing "Service with Humility" !

Duties
These positions are located within the Criminal Records Division in Olympia, Washington.  Incumbents will work in a training capacity, under close supervision, performing technical fingerprint identification and criminal records work consisting of classifying and comparing fingerprints of unknown persons and crime suspects according to acceptable methods.
  NOTE:  These positions will be hired at the Fingerprint Technician 1 level (Range 41: $3,122 - $4,066 per month). The in-training plan will continue for two years. At the end of the two years, if the incumbent successfully completes all portions of the in-training plan, they will promote to the Fingerprint Technician 2 level (Range 45: $3,432 - $4,492 per month).
 
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Analyze, compare, evaluate, and verify criminal and applicant biometric data against Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) database to assist criminal justice and non-criminal justice, private and public sector agencies determine identity of unknown and known subjects. Perform Quality Control (QC) on biometric submissions to prepare for search and comparison of the ABIS database. Substitute better quality biometrics when applicable to maintain database image integrity. Perform database maintenance QC prior to biometrics registering to the ABIS database and archive. Operate high volume and flatbed card scanner in conjunction with entering control fields to initiate biometric searches. Access and verify specific records from ABIS archive for use in updating criminal history record information.? Obtain fingerprints of individuals for use in verifying their identity against criminal history databases. Instruct law enforcement, private and public sector agencies in fingerprint rolling techniques. Compare ABIS database fingerprint impressions with inked fingerprint impressions to determine positive or negative identity of unknown subjects. Reconcile existing state identification number (SID) with ABIS fingerprint quality rating. Testify in court on behalf of the prosecution in criminal proceedings on fingerprints submitted to the Washington State Patrol Criminal Records Division. WORKING CONDITIONS
Shift bidding is conducted every six months and hours of work may vary. Shift assignments are decided by state seniority rules as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Work hours may be day, evening or graveyard shifts. Employees may incur occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens. Incumbents must have a strong interest in working closely with detailed work for extended periods of time.

Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
(APPLICANTS MUST MEET EACH OF THESE REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION.)
High school graduation or GED equivalent. Valid, unrestricted Washington State driver's license. One year of experience in a recognized law enforcement agency OR one year of experience in fingerprint pattern determination/ridge encoding using an AFIS/ABIS OR one year of college coursework in law enforcement. Ability to effectively utilize fingerprint data and information for assessment and analysis. Ability to Operate Computers: Willing and able to operate and read computer monitors/terminals on a continuous basis. Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with co-workers, the public and criminal justice agencies. Ability to convey clear messages related to fingerprint data. Ability to maintain confidentiality in the performance of this role. Ability to work rotating shifts. Shift bidding is conducted every six months and hours of work may vary. Ability to testify in court. Ability to sit for long periods of time. Ability to work alone. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Completion of one or more courses in fingerprint science or fingerprint classification. One year of technical fingerprint classification experience in a recognized law enforcement agency. Tenprint Certification through International Association for Identification (IAI). Knowledge of fingerprint classification methods and procedures; rules of evidence and court testimony procedures. Can be relied upon to achieve excellent results with little need for oversight; earns the trust, respect, and confidence of coworkers and customers through consistent honesty, forthrightness and professionalism in all interaction. Ability to use ABIS: Searches new fingerprints that were checked against the name file with negative results through the master fingerprint file for determining whether the prints are those of persons already in the file or under a different name. Analytical Skills: Analyzes fingerprints for quality in order to develop accurate conclusions; uses data to determine acceptable quality and/or match between fingerprints obtained and those in ABIS database. Customer Focus: Builds and maintains internal and external customer satisfaction with the services offered by the unit. Accountability: Accepts personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work while staying focused on tasks in spite of distractions and interruptions. Ability to take quality fingerprints: Knowledge of fingerprint rolling technique to ensure quality fingerprints are used for search in ABIS. Teaching and Training: Effectively communicate information to train law enforcement, public and private sector agencies in fingerprint rolling techniques. Follow instructions: Willing and able to follow written and/or oral instructions. Written Communication: Convey ideas and information in writing using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the reader. Teamwork:  Fulfill commitments to other team members.  Promote a friendly climate, good morale, and cooperation among team members.  Put team success ahead of individual success.  Make sure that the practical needs of the team are met.  Protect and promote the team's reputation with others.  Take charge when necessary to facilitate an action or decision.  Work closely with your co-workers to accomplish the goals of the day. Adaptability/Flexibility: Meet changing conditions and situations in work responsibilities.  Accept constructive criticism and suggestions and use them to grow. Maintain objectivity in conflict situations and seek solutions acceptable to all. Productivity: Produce quality desired results in an efficient manner. Manage resources efficiently. Meet productivity standards, deadlines, and work schedules. Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrate understanding that individuals have different perspectives and communication styles. Practice active listening. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
Must successfully pass on-site fingerprint aptitude test with a score of 90% or above prior to being scheduled for interview.

Supplemental Information
The act of submitting application materials electronically is considered affirmation that the information is complete and truthful. The agency will verify this information and any untruthful or misleading answers will be cause for rejection of potential employment.
 

HOW TO APPLY: 
Complete the on-line application process at www.careers.wa.gov .
 
If you have questions regarding this announcement, please contact Darlonna Vaughan at (360) 704-2313 or darlonna.vaughan@wsp.wa.gov .
 
POLYGRAPH & BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION :
Prior to a hire, a polygraph examination and background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
 
Applicants are required to sign release of information forms and will not have access to any investigative materials, files, or results. The Washington State Patrol has strict guidelines relating, but not limited to, personal and employment characteristics, arrests, convictions, and illegal drug usage, etc.

During the polygraph examination, candidates are required to sign an assessment sheet and
participate in an oral interview process to verify responses to the Personal Background Evaluation, the Personal History and Background Questionnaire, and a Pre-Employment Interview. Untruthful or misleading answers or omissions will be treated as a falsification which will be cause for rejection of potential  employment.
 
TRANSCRIPTS :
Education verification is part of the selection process.  If selected as a top candidate, position required and applicant specified education will be verified.  Please do not send these transcripts at the time of application.  If you are selected as a top candidate you will be contacted by the Human Resource Division and asked to provide transcripts at the appropriate time.
 
OTHER INFORMATION :
Persons with a disability, who need assistance in the application or assessment process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call (360) 704-2317. Applicants that are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
 
The Washington State Patrol actively supports diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career and that your priority is making sure that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work. Check with the agency human resource office for specific benefit information.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website .

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems ' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

You begin accruing vacation starting your first month of employment. Since we value your loyalty, the amount of vacation you can accrue increases the longer you work with us. Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Vacation accrues for full-time employees per WAC 357-31-165 .

Holidays

Full-time employees are entitled to eleven* paid holidays:
HOLIDAY
DATE
New Year's Day
January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday
Third Monday in January
Presidents' Day
Third Monday in February
Memorial Day
Last Monday in May
Independence Day
July 4
Labor Day
First Monday in September
Veterans' Day
November 11
Thanksgiving Day
Fourth Thursday in November & Friday after
Christmas Day
December 25
Personal Holiday
Employee's selection each calendar year

*Employees who are members of certain Unions are entitled to an additional personal leave day of their choice. Please refer to specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Paid sick leave may be used for reasons included in WAC 357-31-130 .

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information.