State of Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife invites applications for the position of:
Communications Officer
SALARY: $2,716.00 - $3,509.00 Monthly
OPENING DATE: 02/27/15
CLOSING DATE: 03/20/15 05:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
LAW ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
THE DEPARTMENT
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is dedicated to protecting native fish and wildlife, and providing sustainable fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities for millions of residents and visitors. Working throughout the state, WDFW’s employees–field biologists, enforcement officers, land stewards, lab technicians, customer service representatives and others —manage hundreds of fish and wildlife species, maintain nearly a million acres of public wildlife lands, provide opportunities for recreational and commercial fishing, wildlife viewing and hunting, protect and restore habitat and enforce laws that protect fish and wildlife resources. Learn more about us at www.wdfw.wa.gov
This recruitment is to fill one (1) full-time non-permanent, non-commissioned position located in the Law Enforcement Program. There is a possibility of the position becoming permanent. The duty station is at the Law Enforcement Headquarters in the Natural Resources Building located in Olympia, Thurston County, Washington. The position is expected to work through December 31, 2015.
JOB SUMMARY
The primary role of the Communications Officer is to conduct dispatch services, focusing on officer and public safety by answering emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and coordinating response and dispatch services of commissioned general authority enforcement field officers. Communications officers are required to multi-task to ensure officer safety and facilitate prompt response to incidents involving dangerous wildlife threatening public safety. Additional duties require customer service and referral to achieve compliance with laws relating to fish and wildlife, providing responsive public service, promptly resolving human-wildlife interaction conflicts, and forming partnerships with the public and peer agencies to benefit fish and wildlife.
Communication Officers must maintain tactical oversight of an incident until resolved and produce a record in applicable communications activity data computer systems. Communications Officers must be capable of transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel. Officer and public lives are at risk without a competent staff to appropriately respond to their needs.
DUTIES:
Delivers dispatch services to and from enforcement personnel and for any network subscribers via the DNR communications network.
Receives communications from the public by telephone and in person; records, evaluates, and disseminates reports of fish and wildlife violations and related incidents, in-progress crimes, complaints, stolen vehicles, wanted persons, attempts to locate, and initiates appropriate action; makes appropriate computer entry as required; maintains appropriate files and records as required.
Utilizes databases and software to obtain and record information pertaining to hunting/fishing licenses, driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, wanted/stolen vehicles, wanted persons, etc. These data management and software suites include: a central computerized enforcement service system (ACCESS), CODY Records Management System (RMS), WILD Licensing System, Radio over Internet Protocol (RoiP) base station terminals, Driver and Plate System (DAPS), and other sensitive law enforcement information resources.
Provides general information and referral services to public requests regarding Hydraulic
Project Approval (HPA), interpretation of rules and regulations, Problem Wildlife Conflict Specialists, Wildlife Control Operator contacts (trappers), wildlife rehabilitation, Hunter Education, regional agency contacts, etc.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Working environment is a busy office setting. Varying degrees of activity occur in the common areas during working hours; most tasks will involve sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Incumbent must be able to work amid distraction.
The successful candidate must be able to:
Work shifts, weekends and holidays.
Pass a background check, including a polygraph examination (NOTE: When a polygraph is offered to an applicant, they must bring with them a certified copy of their driving record from the Department of Licensing to the polygraph appointment).
Be comfortable working in a law enforcement environment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
High school graduate or GED equivalent.
Ability to type at least 35 WPM and use computers effectively.
Have adequate hearing and visual acuity to successfully perform the essential job functions. Ability to clearly communicate via radio using the spoken word in the English language via a radio communications headset that contains a microphone and earpiece according to public safety communications protocols established by the Washington State Patrol.
Effectively develop email messages in the English language that are grammatically correct.
Ability to handle multiple tasks and technologies at the same time.
Must successfully pass a background check and polygraph examination.
Competencies:
Well qualified applicants should demonstrate competencies in the following areas:
Communication: The incumbent is required to maintain effective lateral and hierarchal communications within and outside the Department. The Employee must issue clear, accurate, concise information to field officers to facilitate public safety responses. This position requires an above average level of written and oral communications capabilities in the English language, as
well as the ability to interpret complex rules specific to fish and wildlife and explain them coherently to public entities requesting clarifications. Considerable skill must be demonstrated in the use of technology and software to include Word, Excel, Access and specialized computer-aided dispatching packages. Communications officers must be able to effectively use technology to clearly communicate and understand responses from field officers via the radio. Provides customer service skills that meet/exceed customer expectations. Able to effectively communicate with and assist upset, confused, demanding or otherwise difficult callers.
Decision-Making: This position requires the ability to make sound independent decisions involving response of emergency and field support assets, regulation interpretation, license suspensions and compliance with laws governing public disclosure, privacy and sensitive/confidential sources. The employee must be able to assess when it is appropriate to act independently and when to engage supervision.
Interpersonal Skills: The Incumbent must demonstrate the ability to foster effective dealings with a variety of persons and reflect a professional standard consistent with Department values and expectations. This capability includes being able to effectively handle individuals who may have negative opinions about the agency or are otherwise upset. Stress tolerant: effectively handles highly stressful or adverse situations, making appropriate decisions, working calmly and accurately, and helping to calm others. Works harmoniously with co-workers and is considered a team player. Arrives to work on time and sufficiently rested to perform duties for the assigned shift period; punctual. Ethics and integrity- earns the trust, respect, and confidence of coworkers and customers through consistent honesty, forthrightness and professionalism in all interactions.
Internal Environment: Multi-tasking is a critical performance factor in this position and the employee must be adept at handling the pressures of coordinating multiple activities with varying levels of importance, correctly prioritizing those that threaten officer safety. The Incumbent must demonstrate high tolerance for stress and anxiety with minimal levels of performance degradation. Accepts responsibility for own work and does not blame others for mistakes. Uses chain of command to convey concerns, ideas for improvement and other communications.
Maintains strict confidentiality of information received while on-duty.
External Environment: The position requires positive, effective interaction with public and private stakeholders that solidify beneficial working relationships in furtherance of the Department's mission and strategic objectives. Knows his/her customers and their expectations; anticipates their needs, makes extra effort to meet or exceed customer expectations and does not receive complaints on interactions. Knows and adheres to established agency and workplace safety policies and procedures, laws, regulations, and other standards that contribute to the maintenance of a safe work environment.
Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
Experience as a public safety emergency service dispatcher for a police, fire, or emergency medical services (EMS) in a state, city, county, or federal governmental agency.
Completion of the Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) Telecommunicator I and II certification(s) or the equivalent certification through the Washington State Patrol.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
To apply for this position you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following in order to your profile before completing the online application:
A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications and competencies of this position (generic cover letters will not be accepted).
A current resume (please make it succinct).
Three (3) professional references (personal references do not count as professional references).
Please do not include any attachments other than the ones requested above.
Please note: Failure to follow the above application instructions will result in disqualification. E-
mailed documents will not be accepted in lieu of attaching your documents to the online profile.
Upon submission of your online application, you will immediately receive a confirming e-mail. You will then be notified via e-mail of your status during the process. In addition to the e-mail notifications, you can check the status of your application at any time by visiting your online profile at www.careers.wa.gov. Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we ask your understanding and encourage you to use the online process and avoid calling for information.
Please note that initial screening will be solely based on the completeness of application materials submitted and the contents and completeness of the “work experience” section of your application in NeoGov. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application. The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. Responses not supported in your application may disqualify you from consideration for employment in this position. All information will be verified and documentation may be required.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURE:
For applicants that pass the on-line application and supplemental questionnaire process and are certified by Human Resources, you may be invited to the next phase of the application process which will include hands-on skills tests and an oral panel interview. The tests include but are not limited to: typing speed and accuracy, reading comprehension, spelling, data entry speed and accuracy, call summarization, memory recall, prioritization, and map reading.
For candidates that make it through the selection process, a background investigation including a polygraph exam will be required due to the nature and security requirements of the job. Applicants will be required to sign releases of information. The Polygraph Examination (PE) and Background Investigation are part of the pre-employment selection process and are not a commitment to employment.
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 WDFW!
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.
Communications Officer
SALARY: $2,716.00 - $3,509.00 Monthly
OPENING DATE: 02/27/15
CLOSING DATE: 03/20/15 05:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
LAW ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
THE DEPARTMENT
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is dedicated to protecting native fish and wildlife, and providing sustainable fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities for millions of residents and visitors. Working throughout the state, WDFW’s employees–field biologists, enforcement officers, land stewards, lab technicians, customer service representatives and others —manage hundreds of fish and wildlife species, maintain nearly a million acres of public wildlife lands, provide opportunities for recreational and commercial fishing, wildlife viewing and hunting, protect and restore habitat and enforce laws that protect fish and wildlife resources. Learn more about us at www.wdfw.wa.gov
This recruitment is to fill one (1) full-time non-permanent, non-commissioned position located in the Law Enforcement Program. There is a possibility of the position becoming permanent. The duty station is at the Law Enforcement Headquarters in the Natural Resources Building located in Olympia, Thurston County, Washington. The position is expected to work through December 31, 2015.
JOB SUMMARY
The primary role of the Communications Officer is to conduct dispatch services, focusing on officer and public safety by answering emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and coordinating response and dispatch services of commissioned general authority enforcement field officers. Communications officers are required to multi-task to ensure officer safety and facilitate prompt response to incidents involving dangerous wildlife threatening public safety. Additional duties require customer service and referral to achieve compliance with laws relating to fish and wildlife, providing responsive public service, promptly resolving human-wildlife interaction conflicts, and forming partnerships with the public and peer agencies to benefit fish and wildlife.
Communication Officers must maintain tactical oversight of an incident until resolved and produce a record in applicable communications activity data computer systems. Communications Officers must be capable of transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel. Officer and public lives are at risk without a competent staff to appropriately respond to their needs.
DUTIES:
Delivers dispatch services to and from enforcement personnel and for any network subscribers via the DNR communications network.
Receives communications from the public by telephone and in person; records, evaluates, and disseminates reports of fish and wildlife violations and related incidents, in-progress crimes, complaints, stolen vehicles, wanted persons, attempts to locate, and initiates appropriate action; makes appropriate computer entry as required; maintains appropriate files and records as required.
Utilizes databases and software to obtain and record information pertaining to hunting/fishing licenses, driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, wanted/stolen vehicles, wanted persons, etc. These data management and software suites include: a central computerized enforcement service system (ACCESS), CODY Records Management System (RMS), WILD Licensing System, Radio over Internet Protocol (RoiP) base station terminals, Driver and Plate System (DAPS), and other sensitive law enforcement information resources.
Provides general information and referral services to public requests regarding Hydraulic
Project Approval (HPA), interpretation of rules and regulations, Problem Wildlife Conflict Specialists, Wildlife Control Operator contacts (trappers), wildlife rehabilitation, Hunter Education, regional agency contacts, etc.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Working environment is a busy office setting. Varying degrees of activity occur in the common areas during working hours; most tasks will involve sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Incumbent must be able to work amid distraction.
The successful candidate must be able to:
Work shifts, weekends and holidays.
Pass a background check, including a polygraph examination (NOTE: When a polygraph is offered to an applicant, they must bring with them a certified copy of their driving record from the Department of Licensing to the polygraph appointment).
Be comfortable working in a law enforcement environment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
High school graduate or GED equivalent.
Ability to type at least 35 WPM and use computers effectively.
Have adequate hearing and visual acuity to successfully perform the essential job functions. Ability to clearly communicate via radio using the spoken word in the English language via a radio communications headset that contains a microphone and earpiece according to public safety communications protocols established by the Washington State Patrol.
Effectively develop email messages in the English language that are grammatically correct.
Ability to handle multiple tasks and technologies at the same time.
Must successfully pass a background check and polygraph examination.
Competencies:
Well qualified applicants should demonstrate competencies in the following areas:
Communication: The incumbent is required to maintain effective lateral and hierarchal communications within and outside the Department. The Employee must issue clear, accurate, concise information to field officers to facilitate public safety responses. This position requires an above average level of written and oral communications capabilities in the English language, as
well as the ability to interpret complex rules specific to fish and wildlife and explain them coherently to public entities requesting clarifications. Considerable skill must be demonstrated in the use of technology and software to include Word, Excel, Access and specialized computer-aided dispatching packages. Communications officers must be able to effectively use technology to clearly communicate and understand responses from field officers via the radio. Provides customer service skills that meet/exceed customer expectations. Able to effectively communicate with and assist upset, confused, demanding or otherwise difficult callers.
Decision-Making: This position requires the ability to make sound independent decisions involving response of emergency and field support assets, regulation interpretation, license suspensions and compliance with laws governing public disclosure, privacy and sensitive/confidential sources. The employee must be able to assess when it is appropriate to act independently and when to engage supervision.
Interpersonal Skills: The Incumbent must demonstrate the ability to foster effective dealings with a variety of persons and reflect a professional standard consistent with Department values and expectations. This capability includes being able to effectively handle individuals who may have negative opinions about the agency or are otherwise upset. Stress tolerant: effectively handles highly stressful or adverse situations, making appropriate decisions, working calmly and accurately, and helping to calm others. Works harmoniously with co-workers and is considered a team player. Arrives to work on time and sufficiently rested to perform duties for the assigned shift period; punctual. Ethics and integrity- earns the trust, respect, and confidence of coworkers and customers through consistent honesty, forthrightness and professionalism in all interactions.
Internal Environment: Multi-tasking is a critical performance factor in this position and the employee must be adept at handling the pressures of coordinating multiple activities with varying levels of importance, correctly prioritizing those that threaten officer safety. The Incumbent must demonstrate high tolerance for stress and anxiety with minimal levels of performance degradation. Accepts responsibility for own work and does not blame others for mistakes. Uses chain of command to convey concerns, ideas for improvement and other communications.
Maintains strict confidentiality of information received while on-duty.
External Environment: The position requires positive, effective interaction with public and private stakeholders that solidify beneficial working relationships in furtherance of the Department's mission and strategic objectives. Knows his/her customers and their expectations; anticipates their needs, makes extra effort to meet or exceed customer expectations and does not receive complaints on interactions. Knows and adheres to established agency and workplace safety policies and procedures, laws, regulations, and other standards that contribute to the maintenance of a safe work environment.
Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
Experience as a public safety emergency service dispatcher for a police, fire, or emergency medical services (EMS) in a state, city, county, or federal governmental agency.
Completion of the Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) Telecommunicator I and II certification(s) or the equivalent certification through the Washington State Patrol.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
To apply for this position you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following in order to your profile before completing the online application:
A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications and competencies of this position (generic cover letters will not be accepted).
A current resume (please make it succinct).
Three (3) professional references (personal references do not count as professional references).
Please do not include any attachments other than the ones requested above.
Please note: Failure to follow the above application instructions will result in disqualification. E-
mailed documents will not be accepted in lieu of attaching your documents to the online profile.
Upon submission of your online application, you will immediately receive a confirming e-mail. You will then be notified via e-mail of your status during the process. In addition to the e-mail notifications, you can check the status of your application at any time by visiting your online profile at www.careers.wa.gov. Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we ask your understanding and encourage you to use the online process and avoid calling for information.
Please note that initial screening will be solely based on the completeness of application materials submitted and the contents and completeness of the “work experience” section of your application in NeoGov. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application. The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. Responses not supported in your application may disqualify you from consideration for employment in this position. All information will be verified and documentation may be required.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURE:
For applicants that pass the on-line application and supplemental questionnaire process and are certified by Human Resources, you may be invited to the next phase of the application process which will include hands-on skills tests and an oral panel interview. The tests include but are not limited to: typing speed and accuracy, reading comprehension, spelling, data entry speed and accuracy, call summarization, memory recall, prioritization, and map reading.
For candidates that make it through the selection process, a background investigation including a polygraph exam will be required due to the nature and security requirements of the job. Applicants will be required to sign releases of information. The Polygraph Examination (PE) and Background Investigation are part of the pre-employment selection process and are not a commitment to employment.
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 WDFW!
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.
