Communications Officer 2 - Training Program Officer

About the Agency & Division

The Washington State Patrol is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to foster an environment in which everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves, communicate openly, and act with courage. The Communications Division operates a 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year statewide emergency communications system, which includes seven centers. The division provides emergency dispatch services for the Washington State Patrol and 18 other State, Federal, and Tribal Agencies on a contract basis, including the Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Board, State Parks, U.S. Marshal, and Muckleshoot Tribal Police.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Training Program Manager and Training Program Supervisor in instructing new Communications Officer 1s (CO1), internal and external users of the State Patrol radio system, and in developing and maintaining training curriculum for both new employees and communications centers.
• Efficiently multi-task technologies, including answering emergency 911 and business phone calls, entering and updating calls for service and self-initiated activity into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, and transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel.
• Prepare handouts, manuals, presentations, and other resource materials.
• Train internal and external employees using effective adult-based learning techniques and facilitate discussions to achieve proficiency in key functions through one-on-one training and/or classroom settings at the academy or regionally.
• Operate a computer/projector combination to conduct classroom training.
• Provide training on multiple applicable topics during CO Academy, Cadet classes, quarterly training for COs, and for other internal and external customers.
• Create and update trainings as needed.
• Monitor and document training of assigned students and prepare progress reports for the Training Supervisor in a timely manner.
• Be proficient and train others in the transmission, broadcasting, control, and operation of multi-frequency two-way radio consoles, including transmitting and receiving communications.
• Be proficient and train others in answering both business and 911 calls.
• Effectively communicate with students, co-workers, and supervisors, and actively listen.
• Provide training to departmental, user agencies, and other interested parties on proper radio policies and procedures.
• Work with district training coordinators to ensure quality training is offered and all staff receive their 24 hours of required training each year.
• Provide radio coverage for CO Academy simulators, Cadet, CVEO, and other internal or external practicals.
• Prepare Trainee Workbooks and chapter exams for new employees.
• Perform CO1 and CO2 duties in stations to alleviate overtime and call-out as schedule allows.
• Provide radio coverage in a center during CO meetings or other events.
• Review and make recommendations for changes to the Communications Manual and other resource materials.
• Assist with audio requests for public disclosure.
• Assist with other related projects as needed.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Current WSP employee with one year's experience as a Communications Officer 1 within the last two years.
• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• 6 months experience providing one-on-one or classroom training using adult-based learning techniques.

Benefits

The Washington State Patrol offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• A healthy work/life balance with flexible schedules and telework options for most positions.
• An Infants at Work Program that supports infant-parent bonding and breastfeeding.
• Continuous growth and development opportunities.
• Opportunities to serve the community and make an impact through meaningful work.
• Employment opportunities recognizing military veterans and military spouses per Governor Executive Order 19-01.
• Qualification for the Public Loan Forgiveness Program.

Insurance Benefits

• Medical (including vision), dental, and basic life insurance for employees and their families.
• Multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums offering statewide coverage.
• Eligibility to enroll in a medical flexible spending account for tax-deferred health care expenses.
• Basic life and long-term disability insurance, with options to purchase additional coverage.
• Dependent care assistance for child or elder care expenses using pre-tax dollars.
• Optional auto, boat, home, and renter insurance through payroll deduction.
• Access to the Washington State Employee Assistance Program for health and well-being.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

• Membership in the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) with two employer-contributed retirement program options.
• Ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP), a supplemental retirement savings program similar to an IRA.

Paid Leave

• Paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
• Sick leave accrual: 8 hours per month for full-time employees, with pro-rated accrual for part-time employees.
• Vacation (annual leave) accrual based on WAC 357-31-165(1) or applicable collective bargaining agreements.
• 21 days of paid military leave per year for armed forces members.
• 5 days of paid bereavement leave for the loss of a family or household member, or for loss of pregnancy.
• Additional leave options including Leave Sharing, Parental Leave, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Leave, and Leave Without Pay.