Job Information
Spokane County Emergency Management Communications Specialist (Civil Service) in Spokane, Washington
Emergency Management Communications Specialist (Civil Service)
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Emergency Management Communications Specialist (Civil Service)
Salary
$63,569.81 - $88,974.78 Annually
Location
WA 99260, WA
Job Type
Regular
Job Number
24-00208
Department
Sheriff
Opening Date
09/17/2024
Closing Date
10/4/2024 12:00 PM Pacific
FLSA
Determined by Position
Description
Benefits
Questions
Job Summary
This position is under the general supervision of the Deputy Director of Spokane County Emergency Management (SCEM).
The Emergency Management Communications Specialist develops, coordinates, and maintains the Spokane County Emergency Management Auxiliary Communications System (ACS), its technical components, volunteers, and capabilities. The incumbent may lead or assist with projects in any program element with a communications nexus, supervises and facilitates the SCEM Auxiliary Communications System volunteers, and coordinates with stakeholders and partner agencies within Spokane County, throughout Washington State Homeland Security Region 9, and at the state level.
TOTAL COMPENSATION: $81,369.35 - $113,887.71 annually
Total compensation is an estimate based upon full-time base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.
The starting pay will begin at $30.56 on the pay scale, will have a pay increase after six (6) full months of employment, and will have annual increases thereafter, maxing out at the top step of the pay scale.
REQUIRED ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST - Documents MUST be uploaded with your application:
Copy of valid Driver's License
Copy of DD-214 Member Form 4 (if applicable; see RCW 41.04.010 as to how Veteran's Preference is applied)
Copy of Permanent Resident Card AKA "Green Card" (if applicable)
Copy of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card / Form I-797 (Notice of Action) / Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, if applicable)
Official Transcripts from the school of your highest level of education and/or transcripts showing proof of your highest degree obtained. All transcripts must be official documents; they cannot be uploaded by applicants to your application.
Examples: if you graduated high school and have some college credits, but no degree, you will need to order BOTH high school and your college transcripts; if you have an Associate's or Bachelor's degree and no additional college, then only order the transcript showing proof of your degree; if you have an Associate's or Bachelor's degree plus additional college, please order BOTH college transcripts, etc.
Accepted methods for transcript submission:
Electronic Submission: If your school distributes official, electronic transcripts, have your school registrar email the official transcripts directly to: CS@SpokaneCounty.org (electronic transcripts will ONLY be accepted if sent directly by the school registrar or their 3rd party affiliate; applicants may not email transcripts directly)
Alternate Arrangements: If your school does not issue electronic transcripts, please email: CS @SpokaneCounty.org (CS@SpokaneCounty.org) to make alternate arrangements.
If you have already submitted official transcripts to Civil Service, please do not resubmit; do make sure to verify Civil Service has your transcripts on file.
DO NOT SUBMIT RESUME; resumes are NOT accepted in lieu of a complete online application.This job posting is to create a merged eligibility list.
TESTING INFORMATION:
Training & Experience Form (T&E): Applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be sent a Training & Experience form with a specified due date. From there, applicants will be invited for oral board interviews.
Oral Board Interviews: To Be Determined based upon the number of qualified applicants - By invitation only for applicants who meet the minimum requirements and submit complete applications and T&Es.
Examples of Duties
The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as an exclusive list of all essential job functions performed by all employees in this classification, but only as a representative summary of the primary job functions and responsibilities. Incumbent may not be required to perform all job functions and may be required to perform additional, position specific tasks.
Successfully maintain and improve the current readiness and status of all radio and wireless communications and related resources (personnel and equipment) for emergency response and community service needs.
Coordinate with all stakeholders and partner agencies within Spokane County, throughout WA State Homeland Security Region 9, and the state to achieve emergency preparedness radio and wireless communications capabilities.
Actively engage and work closely with emergency preparedness radio communications community volunteer groups throughout Spokane County, WA State Homeland Security Region 9, and the state.
Provide technical leadership and guidance in specification, procurement, training, deployment, and maintenance of radio communications and related technology.
Research and evaluate radio and wireless communication technology and trends which will benefit agencies, organizations, and community emergency response and service.
Prepare and coordinate related policies and procedures; develop radio systems documentation, guidelines, and reports.
Work with related agencies and organization leaders, users, volunteers, vendors, and contractors in achieving emergency preparedness communications objectives.
Develop and maintain a reference database of critical radio communications users, providers, systems, vendors, locations, and methods.
Evaluate radio interoperability needs, methods, and policies.
Responsible for inventorying and maintaining SCEM-owned radio communications related equipment and resources.
Work closely with local government emergency communications agencies, regional and state Emergency Operation Centers, and other stakeholders to prepare and coordinate resources.
Work with, and serve on, related committees and user groups to audit, monitor, and evaluate the emergency preparedness radio communications community.
Serve as the SCEM Duty Officer on a rotating basis.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements
Must be a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, or a deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) recipient; must be able to speak, read, and write the English language; high school diploma or GED.
In addition to the above requirements, applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements:
A vocational certificate, vocational training, or an Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college, institution, or university with a major in Electronics Technology, Wireless Technology, Information Technology, or closely related field
An equivalent to at least three (3) years of full-time professional experience in customer service, sales, project management, and/or experience working in a similar field that requires interfacing with multiple stakeholders and various disciplines
An equivalent to at least one (1) year of full-time paid or volunteer experience serving public safety agencies, emergency management, community services, or closely related field, working in a chain of command or multi-jurisdictional environment
A valid driver’s license is required at the time of application and must be retained throughout employment.
Incumbent is required to undergo and successfully complete a full background investigation with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office’s Background Investigation Unit prior to being placed/assigned by the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
the majority of the work is performed in a standard office environment with travel to off-site locations
incumbent may be required to serve in the Emergency Operations Center in an operational capacity or at other locations as assigned during exercises, emergencies, or disasters
attendance at meetings, incident responses, and working with volunteers may require evenings, long hours, and/or unscheduled shifts
may require lifting up to 50 pounds and climbing ladders
Applicant must demonstrate ability to safely drive position-related vehicles (trailers of varying type/length). Incumbent must agree to carry a department-provided cell phone and must have access to an operating vehicle on a 24-hour basis; performance as a 24-hour Duty Officer is required.
BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS:
All employees of the Spokane County Department of Emergency Management are responsible for contributing to a safe, productive, and positive work environment, by being self-motivated and actively demonstrating the core values of the Sheriff’s Office in their daily work and interactions:
Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, co-workers, managers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness, and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner.
Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; a team player that helps the organization meet its objectives by taking initiative; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us.
Integrity: Positively represents the organization and the County by modeling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards.
Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures, or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement, empowerment, and embracing continuous improvement.
Selection Factors
Incumbent must complete the FEMA Professional Development series Independent Study Courses (700, 800, 100, and 200) within six months of hire and Incident Command System (ICS) 300 and 400 courses within one year of hire.
Must have or be able to obtain an Amateur Radio License, General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) License, Amateur Radio AUXCOMM certification, and/or Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Communications Leader (COML) certification within one year of hire.
Preferred Qualifications:
- at least five (5) years of active amateur radio community involvement
Knowledge of:
emergency management principles, including Emergency Communications (EMCOMM) and Auxiliary Communications (AUXCOMM) missions
emergency communications related language, codes, etc.
radio and wireless and wired communications systems, including, but not limited to: HF, VHF, analog and digital voice and data, cellular, Wi-Fi, satellite, IP networking, telephone (analog and digital) systems, and public safety focused solutions (i.e. FirstNet)
the operation of public safety radios, including trunking and encryption
local, state, and federal rules, regulations, and standards pertaining to radio communications and wireless systems installation and operation, licensing, and construction
electrical code standards
general office procedures and practices
Ability to:
make arithmetic computations, electrical calculations, and basic financial and budgetary functions
read, write, and interpret documents, such as operation and maintenance manuals, technical procedures, and schematics
communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and take direction accordingly
work effectively as a member of a team and with diverse populations
deal courteously, professionally, and tactfully with internal and/or external partners, agencies, and the public
operate computer terminals and applicable software
SPOKANE COUNTY
Employee Benefits Summary
The following is a brief list of benefits available to Spokane County regular employees. Complete information is available from Human Resources Department. This information is subject to change.
PAID TIME OFF
Spokane County Observed Holidays
Up to 10 (ten) paid holidays are observed by Spokane County.
PTO
Non-represented and a select group of represented employees receive a bank of hours that combine both vacation and sick leave into a paid time off bank. There is no waiting period to use this time and it starts out at almost 2 days per month accrual increasing in accrual rates annually for first 5 years.
Vacation
For employees with less than five (5) years of continuous service, the accrual rate is 1 day of vacation each month for a total of 12 days per year. After six (6) months, employees are eligible to take accumulated vacation time. (Please note the vacation time accumulation may vary depending on contract language).
Sick Leave
Sick leave is earned at 1 day per month and can be taken as the days are accumulated.
Other Leaves
Spokane County provides several other paid leaves such as: bereavement leave, jury duty and military duty leave.
INSURANCE BENEFITS
Medical Insurance
Two plans are currently available: Premera Blue Cross (PPO) and Kaiser Permanente (HMO). Spokane County pays 95% of the premium for full-time employees and 90% of the premiums for spouses and dependents. Premiums are deducted each pay period (pay periods: 15th and last day of the month).
2024 Rates:
Premera
Employee Only: $38.04 per month
Employee & Spouse: $149.52 per month
Employee & Family: $209.60 per month
Employee & Child(ren): $136.16 per month
Kaiser:
Employee: $35.92 per month
Employee & Spouse: $140.56 per month
Employee & Family: $196.06 per month
Employee & Child(ren): $128.58 per month
Dental Insurance
Two plans are currently available: Delta Dental of Washington (PPO) and Willamette Dental (DMO). Spokane County pays 95% of the premium for full-time employees and 90% of the premiums for spouses and dependents.
2024 Rates:
Delta Dental Willamette Dental
Employee: $5.74 per month Employee: $5.98 per month
Family: $11.48 per month Family: $11.96 per month
Group Life Insurance
The County provides a $25,000 group life insurance policy to employees. The County provides a $10,000 benefit for those represented by 492, 492CS & 492CL. This benefit is paid in full by Spokane County.
Long Term Disability Coverage
Provides an income protection benefit in the event of a long-term illness or injury at rate of 60% of income up to a maximum of $5,000 per month. Spokane County pays the full premium for this plan. Deputy Sheriff's receive a benefit through their union for disability.
RETIREMENT
Retirement Plan (401a)
Spokane County employees are automatically included in the Washington State Retirement System. Both the employer and the employee contribute to the plan. This retirement plan provides a guaranteed lifetime monthly benefit once vested and eligible for retirement.
Additional Retirement Plan Option (457b)
Employees may supplement their retirement income and save money on taxes by participating in this optional County program. Roth (after-tax) option is also available through this retirement plan.
VOLUNTARY BENEFITS
AFLAC
Supplemental insurance is optional and is provided by AFLAC to help pay for benefits not covered by major medical insurance. The employee pays 100% of the premium.
Travel Assistance
Provides additional travel protections anytime you travel more than 100 miles from home. Includes pre-trip information, emergency ticket replacement, and emergency evacuation coverage. This benefit is paid in full by Spokane County.
Flexible Spending Plan (FSA)
Spokane County sponsors a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account to allow out-of-pocket Medical & Daycare Expenses to be paid with Tax Free Dollars. Premiums are automatically set up pre-tax under the FSA.
Voluntary Term Life Insurance
Voluntary Term Life Insurance is additional optional life insurance provided through The Standard Insurance. New employees are guaranteed up to $50,000 for self and $20,000 for a spouse with no medical underwriting needed.
WORK/LIFE PROGRAMS
Employee Assistance Program
Employees and their family members are eligible to receive free counseling. There are also benefits relating to financial and legal concerns.
Reduced Cost Bus Pass Program
Spokane County participates in a program with STA which discounts bus passes to $5 a month.
Wellness Programs
There are opportunities for nearby exercise programs at reduced cost and education programs around wellness themes including financial well-being, nutrition and stress reduction.
Discounts
There are local and national discounts available to Spokane County employees.
01
Are you a citizen of the United States, a Legal Permanent Resident, or a deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) recipient who can speak, read, and write the English language? *Legal Permanent Residents MUST upload a copy of their valid resident card. DACA recipients MUST upload a copy of their EAD card, Form I-797, or Form I-821D.
Yes, United States Citizen
Yes, Legal Permanent Resident
Yes, DACA recipient
No
02
Do you have a valid driver's license at the time of this application and are you able to maintain such license throughout employment?
Yes
No
03
Have you uploaded a copy of your current driver's license? Applications without this attachment will not be accepted.
Yes
No
04
Education: As of TODAY, what is the highest degree you have earned? Do NOT select a degree that you are still in process of completing. Your official transcript MUST show proof of this degree at the time of application. Any wrongful statement is falsification and will remove your application from consideration.
High School Diploma/GED
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree
PhD
05
Have you contacted your school registrar(s) to submit official, electronic transcripts to: CS@spokanecounty.org? Official transcripts MUST be received by Civil Service in order to continue with the hiring process.
Yes
No
06
Do you have a vocational certificate, vocational training, and/or an Associate's degree with a major in Electronics Technology, Wireless Technology, Information Technology, or a closely related field?
Vocational Certificate
Vocational Training
Associate's Degree
Does not apply
07
Do you have an equivalent to at least three (3) years of full-time professional experience in customer service, sales, project management, and/or experience working in a similar field that requires interfacing with multiple stakeholders and various disciplines?
Yes
No
08
Describe your experience in customer service, sales, and/or project management and how you have interfaced with multiple stakeholders and various disciplines.
09
Do you have an equivalent to at least one (1) year of full-time paid or volunteer experience serving public safety agencies, emergency management, community services, or closely related field, working in a chain of command or multi-jurisdictional environment?
Yes
No
10
Describe your experience serving public safety agencies, emergency management, community services, or a closely related field, working in a chain of command or multi-jurisdictional environment.
11
I have read the Department Working Conditions on the Job Posting and acknowledge that I can meet these requirements.
Yes
No
12
I acknowledge and understand that if appointed, persons in this position are required to carry a department-provided cell phone, they must have access to an operating vehicle on a 24-hour basis, and that performance as a 24-hour Duty Officer is required.
Yes
No
13
Because of their role in law enforcement, applicants are required to pass a thorough investigation of their background. Do you understand that if you meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you will be subject to a thorough background investigation?
Yes
No
Required Question
Agency
Spokane County
Address
824 N Adams Spokane, Washington, 99260
Phone
509-477-5750
Website
http://www.spokanecounty.org/employment