Job Title: Communications Officer / Dispatcher Series (Applicant Pool 2020)
Posted by: Washington State Patrol on Feb 18, 2020
Location:
Multiple Locations Statewide , WAJob Description:
Description
This recruitment will be used to establish an agency applicant pool for our eight Communications Centers statewide.
Our Centers are located in Tacoma, Bellevue, Yakima, Spokane, Vancouver, Wenatchee, Marysville, and Bremerton.
CURRENTLY HIRING FOR:
BELLEVUE AND MARYSVILLE CENTERS
Are you looking for: Excellent benefits? Career growth opportunities? Opportunities to impact your community? A professional workplace that fosters respect, commitment and trust?
As an employee of the Washington State Patrol, you will be part of a team of dedicated professionals responsible for providing safety and security to the citizens of the State of Washington.
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; IT Specialists who leverage technology to enhance and sustain business processes, public safety infrastructure, and statewide emergency communications 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"!
The individual hired for this position may also be qualified for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. For information on this program click on Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program ."
Duties
The Communications Division employees are true first responders and are the lifeline for our Troopers and many contracted agencies. Located in eight communications centers throughout Washington State, Communications Officers provide around-the-clock professional emergency support to the WSP, federal, state, local and tribal agencies. Communications Officers answer 911 calls and initiate emergency services to meet the needs of the public and officers in the field.
Communications Officer 1 [Entry Level & Lateral Entry] - Salary: $3,929 to $5,141 (monthly)
A Communications Officer 1 will receive training in law enforcement and emergency communications operations and procedures, transmitting, receiving, and relaying information concerning public safety and law enforcement activities to, from, and between State Patrol mobile units and stations, other State, county, and Federal law enforcement agencies, and the public by means of radio, multi-line telephone systems, computer terminals, private line intercom systems, and other telecommunications devices.
In a Communications Center, a Communications Officer 1's primary responsibility is to to efficiently multi-task technologies answering emergency 911 and business phone calls, entering and updating calls for service and self-initiated activity into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Computer system and transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel.
These critical responsibilities are the lifeline for officers in the field and the first contact with the public who report emergency situations requiring police, fire or medical response.
Communications Officer Assistant [Call Taker] - Salary: $3,122 to $4,066 (monthly)
A Communications Officer Assistant's primary responsibility is to efficiently answer emergency 911 and business phone calls and enter/update calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. ( Available in Bellevue only .)
Qualifications
Successful Communications Officers come from many backgrounds. We emphasize strong communication skills, the ability to build effective working relationships, and a strong desire for professional development.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Required: High school graduate or GED equivalent. Typing speed of 40 wpm
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS for all job classes:
Be free from intemperance in the use of narcotics, controlled substances, alcohol, etc. Work weekends, days off, holidays, and rotating shifts; e.g., continuous five-work-days-per-week shifts that rotate each 28 days to a different schedule of regular days and hours per week. Have dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including a computer keyboard. Ability to respond to visual and sound stimuli with a high degree of accuracy in a timely manner. Ability to distinguish colors. Have adequate hearing and visual acuity to successfully perform the essential job functions. Ability to effectively communicate orally (using radio equipment) and in writing. Ability to effectively communicate with and assist upset, confused, or otherwise distressed customers due to heightened emotions. Comply with departmental grooming standards; e.g. short hair (off uniform collar), short and clean fingernails, etc. Willing to work long, extended or adjusted hours and respond on short notice to work. Accept counseling and guidance from supervisors. Accept responsibility for issued equipment. Refrain from lying, cheating, or stealing.
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.
APPLICATION PROCESS :
For any email communications regarding this recruitment, please be sure to check your "spam" folders!
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 the WSP.
Applications will be accepted electronically at www.careers.wa.gov .
Communications Officer 1 - Only
G.I. Bill Education Benefits: Candidates entitled to G.I. Bill education benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may qualify for a supplemental monthly check while participating in an on-the-job training program. The Communications Officer 1 positions with the Washington State Patrol are positions that require on-the-job training. To learn if you are eligible for these benefits please call the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at (888) 442-4551.
If you have questions regarding this announcement, please contact Melodie Wulfekuhle at (360) 704-2307 or melodie.wulfekuhle@wsp.wa.gov .
TESTING & HIRING PROCESS :
Complete on-line application through www.careers.wa.gov
Successfully pass the CritiCall hands-on skills test. These tests are conducted at each Communications Center and at the WSP Headquarters in Olympia. This includes, but is not limited to tests related to typing speed and accuracy, reading comprehension, spelling, data entry and accuracy, call summarization, memory recall, prioritization and map reading.
Pending current employment needs at selected Centers, you may be invited to an oral interview. Successfully pass an oral interview
Successfully pass a pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation
A conditional offer of employment may be made to successful applicants - pending current employment needs at selected Centers
Successfully pass a departmental hearing examination
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/or 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.
This recruitment will be used to establish an agency applicant pool for our eight Communications Centers statewide.
Our Centers are located in Tacoma, Bellevue, Yakima, Spokane, Vancouver, Wenatchee, Marysville, and Bremerton.
CURRENTLY HIRING FOR:
BELLEVUE AND MARYSVILLE CENTERS
Are you looking for: Excellent benefits? Career growth opportunities? Opportunities to impact your community? A professional workplace that fosters respect, commitment and trust?
As an employee of the Washington State Patrol, you will be part of a team of dedicated professionals responsible for providing safety and security to the citizens of the State of Washington.
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; IT Specialists who leverage technology to enhance and sustain business processes, public safety infrastructure, and statewide emergency communications 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"!
The individual hired for this position may also be qualified for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. For information on this program click on Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program ."
Duties
The Communications Division employees are true first responders and are the lifeline for our Troopers and many contracted agencies. Located in eight communications centers throughout Washington State, Communications Officers provide around-the-clock professional emergency support to the WSP, federal, state, local and tribal agencies. Communications Officers answer 911 calls and initiate emergency services to meet the needs of the public and officers in the field.
Communications Officer 1 [Entry Level & Lateral Entry] - Salary: $3,929 to $5,141 (monthly)
A Communications Officer 1 will receive training in law enforcement and emergency communications operations and procedures, transmitting, receiving, and relaying information concerning public safety and law enforcement activities to, from, and between State Patrol mobile units and stations, other State, county, and Federal law enforcement agencies, and the public by means of radio, multi-line telephone systems, computer terminals, private line intercom systems, and other telecommunications devices.
In a Communications Center, a Communications Officer 1's primary responsibility is to to efficiently multi-task technologies answering emergency 911 and business phone calls, entering and updating calls for service and self-initiated activity into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Computer system and transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel.
These critical responsibilities are the lifeline for officers in the field and the first contact with the public who report emergency situations requiring police, fire or medical response.
Communications Officer Assistant [Call Taker] - Salary: $3,122 to $4,066 (monthly)
A Communications Officer Assistant's primary responsibility is to efficiently answer emergency 911 and business phone calls and enter/update calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. ( Available in Bellevue only .)
Qualifications
Successful Communications Officers come from many backgrounds. We emphasize strong communication skills, the ability to build effective working relationships, and a strong desire for professional development.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Required: High school graduate or GED equivalent. Typing speed of 40 wpm
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS for all job classes:
Be free from intemperance in the use of narcotics, controlled substances, alcohol, etc. Work weekends, days off, holidays, and rotating shifts; e.g., continuous five-work-days-per-week shifts that rotate each 28 days to a different schedule of regular days and hours per week. Have dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including a computer keyboard. Ability to respond to visual and sound stimuli with a high degree of accuracy in a timely manner. Ability to distinguish colors. Have adequate hearing and visual acuity to successfully perform the essential job functions. Ability to effectively communicate orally (using radio equipment) and in writing. Ability to effectively communicate with and assist upset, confused, or otherwise distressed customers due to heightened emotions. Comply with departmental grooming standards; e.g. short hair (off uniform collar), short and clean fingernails, etc. Willing to work long, extended or adjusted hours and respond on short notice to work. Accept counseling and guidance from supervisors. Accept responsibility for issued equipment. Refrain from lying, cheating, or stealing.
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.
APPLICATION PROCESS :
For any email communications regarding this recruitment, please be sure to check your "spam" folders!
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 the WSP.
Applications will be accepted electronically at www.careers.wa.gov .
Communications Officer 1 - Only
G.I. Bill Education Benefits: Candidates entitled to G.I. Bill education benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may qualify for a supplemental monthly check while participating in an on-the-job training program. The Communications Officer 1 positions with the Washington State Patrol are positions that require on-the-job training. To learn if you are eligible for these benefits please call the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at (888) 442-4551.
If you have questions regarding this announcement, please contact Melodie Wulfekuhle at (360) 704-2307 or melodie.wulfekuhle@wsp.wa.gov .
TESTING & HIRING PROCESS :
Complete on-line application through www.careers.wa.gov
Successfully pass the CritiCall hands-on skills test. These tests are conducted at each Communications Center and at the WSP Headquarters in Olympia. This includes, but is not limited to tests related to typing speed and accuracy, reading comprehension, spelling, data entry and accuracy, call summarization, memory recall, prioritization and map reading.
Pending current employment needs at selected Centers, you may be invited to an oral interview. Successfully pass an oral interview
Successfully pass a pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation
A conditional offer of employment may be made to successful applicants - pending current employment needs at selected Centers
Successfully pass a departmental hearing examination
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/or 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.
Pay Rate:
Unspecified
HR. Website URL:
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington?department[0]=Washington%20State%20Patrol&department[1]=Washington%20State%20Patrol%20Trooper%20Cadet&sort=PostingDate%7CDescending
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About Washington State Patrol
The Washington State Patrol is a premier law enforcement agency made up of dedicated professionals who work hard to improve the quality of life for our citizens and prevent the unnecessary loss of life on a daily basis.
Please visit this employer's Public Profile to see more jobs offered by Washington State Patrol