Search Jobs

An exciting opportunity is now open.

Assistant Director of Innovation & Impact

Opening Date: May 8, 2024

Closing Date: May 31, 2024

Salary: $165,382.92 - $221,628.93 DOQ*

*Upon Board Approval

The Santa Clara County Housing Authority (SCCHA) is the county’s largest provider of affordable housing, helping make rental housing safe and affordable for approximately 20,000 low-income households.

How You Will Make an Impact:

The Santa Clara County Housing Authority (SCCHA) is seeking an experienced leader who will lead, manage, organize, plan and oversee the staff and activities of the Agency’s Innovation and Impact team including developing housing policy, program design, implementation and evaluation. Will work collaboratively with the leadership team and the community to bring meaningful opportunities and impact to the communities SCCHA serves.

The Assistant Director of Innovation and Impact plays an important role in leading the policy work and resident community initiatives, from innovation through evaluation.  This position will oversee and manage the Agency’s Moving to Work (MTW) Plan process in partnership with the leadership team and stakeholders, and requires knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations related to housing programs. 

As a member of our team, we are looking for a candidate that has a strong understanding and connection to SCCHA’s resident community needs and its supporting partners. Direct experience in community engagement, program and policy design and implementation, and evaluation of impact is highly desired. 

What Our Team Is Looking For:

Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience likely to provide the required core competencies may be considered. A typical combination that is qualifying may include: 

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in social services, behavioral sciences, public or business administration or related field.
• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible management experience in government assistance program and resident services administration and evaluation with three (3) years in a supervisory capacity.  
• A master’s degree is preferred.  

About the Highway Program Deputy Director

The Highway Program Deputy Director, reporting to the Chief of Engineering and Program Delivery, manages a diverse and talented team of seasoned staff who is well-versed on the delivery of capital projects related to the State highway system and other roadways in the county. This position is responsible for directing and leading collaboration on planning, design development (including technical analysis in support of preliminary engineering and final design), project-related right-of-way activities (in coordination with VTA Real Estate), construction management and close out, overall program/project management (including scopes, costs, schedules and quality of work), management of staff resources (both VTA and consultant), coordination with project stakeholders within VTA and beyond (e.g., local agencies, Caltrans, federal agencies, resources agencies, utilities, etc.), and community and other outreach (working with VTA public information and government affairs staff).
 

The City of Sunnyvale is seeking to fill the position of Public Safety Dispatcher with an energetic and highly motivated individual who possesses excellent customer service, technical and interpersonal skills.

 
Under general supervision of the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher, processes emergency and non-emergency calls for service; dispatches police, fire, medical, rescue, animal control or other emergency equipment, by telephone or radio, utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer aided dispatch systems (CAD); and performs related work as required.

The minimum qualifications required for this position are - Graduation from high school or tested equivalent; and Two years of experience dispatching police and/or fire services for a public safety agency utilizing contemporary dispatching technical tools, including computer aided dispatching systems; or successful completion of probation as a Public Safety Dispatcher-in-Training with the City of Sunnyvale.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application packet will consist of a City of Sunnyvale employment application, responses to the required supplemental questions and a current (dated within one year of application) typing certificate verifying 35 or more net words per minute (online typing certificates will not be accepted). The next application review date is March 15, 2024.

For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

Salary $51.52 - $62.62 Hourly

VTA is seeking a Lead Procurement and Contracts Manager for the BART Silicon Valley II Project. Don't wait and apply today!

 

This position has an anticipated end date of December 31, 2036.

 

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people dedicated to providing solutions that move Silicon Valley. Unique among transportation organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, VTA is Santa Clara County’sauthority for transit development and operations (light rail and bus), congestion management, transportation-related funding, highway design and construction, real estate, and transit-oriented development, and bicycle and pedestrian planning. With local, state, and federal partners, VTA works to innovate the way Silicon Valley moves and provide mobility solutions for all.

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is an independent special district that provides sustainable, accessible,community-focused, innovative, and environmentally responsible transportation options promoting the region's vitality. VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services and participates as a funding partner in regional rail services, including Caltrain, Capital Corridor, and the Altamont Corridor Express.
To learn more, go to: vta.org

About Procurement, Contracts & Business Diversity
VTA’s Procurement, Contracts & Business Diversity (PCBD) is committed to procurement processes, contract administration, and compliance that fosters fair and open competition, compliance with federal, state, and local laws and requirements, and adheres to the highest ethical standards.
 

Goods and General Services, Professional Services/Technology, Design and Construction Sections, and the Offices of Business Diversity and Labor and Stormwater Compliance comprise the PCBD Department.  

Our Community
Santa Clara County sometimes referred to as “Silicon Valley”, is unique for its innovation, natural attractions, and social diversity. With numerous amenities and perfect weather, it has long been considered one of the best places in the United States to live and work. calendar of festivals and celebrations supports the community spirit. Nearby open space provides easy access to mountain parks, trails, lakes, streams, and beautiful coastal beaches. San José has received accolades for its vibrant neighborhoods, healthy lifestyle, and diverse attractions from national media, including Business Week and Money magazines.
The county’s population of 1.9 million is the largest in Northern California and is rich in ethnic culture and diversity. Enjoy access and the option to explore our closely neighboring counties of San Francisco and Alameda.

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate has in-depth procurement and contracts experience, whose substantial experience includes transit construction projects.  The candidate will oversee and manage the procurement and administration of all procurement and contracts for the BART Silicon Valley Phase II (“BSV II”) Project, including procurement and contract administration of Technology, Architectural, and Engineering (“A&E”) and other professional services contracts and major high-value, complex construction contracts with potentially various delivery methods, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, and CM/GC.
 
The ideal candidate is familiar with both contract change management and contract claims management processes for change requests, amendments, and contract claims that arise during the administration of a transit construction project.  
 
The candidate’s in-depth experience will necessarily lead to candidate-led interfaces with BSV2 Project Controls, Design, Construction, and Risk teams, among others, such that procurement schedules are managed in alignment with the overall Project schedule.  
 
The candidate will oversee the development of Request for Qualifications, Request for Proposals, and Invitation for Bids, ensuring they comply with FTA, state, local, and VTA requirements; identify changes that are required and have the skillset to draft revisions to standard templates and General Terms and Conditions to submit for approval.  
 
The candidate coordinates with the BSV II Project to widely market upcoming procurements prior to formal advertisement to attract competition in BSV II procurements.  The candidate oversees the pre-advertisement industry events.
 
The candidate conducts the pre-bid and pre-proposal conferences, the bid openings on the Bid Due Date, conducts formal Discussions with proposers and oversees the evaluation process.
 
The candidate will provide guidance and direction to the Project Team preceding contract negotiations where permitted or required, such as negotiations of cost and pricing for A&E contracts.  The candidate has the skillset to draft a Negotiations Strategy Memo that considers multiple factors, including an analysis of the independent cost estimate, the proposer’s cost proposal, and market conditions.  The candidate and their team will oversee the negotiations, ensuring all proper documentation is in place and negotiations are conducted in a disciplined manner.  The candidate must prepare the record of negotiations and cost analysis prior to awarding the contract or contract amendment.
 
The candidate manages all bid protests, analyzes each bid protest, and provides recommendations of their disposition supported by clear facts, supporting documents, and persuasive arguments.   The candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills.  
 
The candidate will execute contracts on behalf of VTA within signature authority as delegated by the Chief Procurement Officer.
 
The candidate will represent VTA at all disciplinary and other meetings.
For change orders, the candidate must lead the change order process, ensuring that there is a finding of merit and the cost is reasonable for the change in scope.  
 
The candidate will lead any and all procurement and contracts audits and reviews, including the FTA Triennial. The candidate will be responsible for maintaining contracts files of all BSVII contracts that are FTA requirements-compliant.
 
The candidate must have managerial skills to train and lead a group of contract administrators in all areas discussed above, including guiding them in rigorous management of their respective procurements.  
 
A 4-year Bachelor’s minimum education is required and a graduate degree is preferable.  Extensive experience in procurement and contracts is a must.   Experience in construction claims and even claims litigation is a plus.   This position is subject to VTA’s Telework Policy.
 

Definition

Under general direction, the Construction Contracts Administration Manager oversees and manages the procurement and administration of construction contracts including alternative delivery contracts such as Design Build (DB) and CM/GC (Construction Manager/General Contractor).

Distinguishing Characteristics

This classification is responsible for managing major VTA construction contracts and the related contract administration activities associated with construction projects.  Responsibilities include the administration of contracts that are highly complex and sensitive in nature, where substantial judgment and initiative are essential in making recommendations and resolving problems.  This class is distinguished from the Deputy Director of Procurement, Contracts, and Materials in that the latter has overall responsibility for all procurement, contract administration, and materials management functions. 

Classification Bargaining Unit: Non-Represented

 

Essential Job Functions

Typical Tasks

• Selects, supervises, trains, evaluates, counsels, and disciplines staff;
• Provides expert guidance in construction procurement and contract administration, including DB and CM/GC contracting;
• Reviews plans, specifications, reports, and other documents for consistency with the selected contracting approach;
• Oversees the preparation of Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and Invitations for Bids (IFBs);
• Oversees and coordinates the development of contract language;
• Evaluates market conditions with respect to the viability of construction contracts;
• Evaluates project risks and risk mitigation strategies;
• Manages the preparation and negotiation of change orders;
• Analyzes cost estimates and work statements to determine the appropriate contract action;
• Ensures that Invitations for Bids and Requests for Proposals are conducted consistent with appropriate contracting regulations;
• Conducts pre-bid/proposal conferences and bid/proposal openings;
• Evaluates proposals and determines responsiveness and responsibility of offers;
• Serves as chairperson on proposal evaluation committees;
• Negotiates and prepares contracts that are highly complex and sensitive in nature;
• Coordinates with management and legal staff on legal issues associated with construction contracting and alternative project delivery;
• Executes contracts on behalf of VTA within signature authority as delegated by the Manager of Procurement, Contracts and Materials;
• Processes claims and stop notices and works to resolve protests;
• Represents VTA at disciplinary hearings and other meetings;
• Serves as a member of the management team in meetings/negotiations with labor unions and conducts financial analysis;
• Ensures that VTA complies with the various rulings and decisions of relevant administrative and judicial authorities;
• Monitors, revises, and enforces VTA procurement policies and procedures;
• Manages the development and implementation of department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for work unit;
• Ensures that VTA complies with the requirements of funding agencies for usage of grant funds;
• Ensures compliance with VTA policies and procedures, including equal opportunity and discrimination and harassment prevention;
• Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Sufficient training, education, and public or private sector experience to demonstrate possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Development of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a four-year degree, and substantial, increasingly responsible contract administration experience in a public agency or transit setting involving highly complex, high dollar value contracts, with several years of supervisory experience.

Possession of procurement certifications, such as CPPO and/or CFCM, are desirable.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of:

• Theories, principles, and practices of contract administration for public agencies including alternative delivery methods (e.g. DB, CM/GC);
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing public procurement and contract administration processes for design build, construction, and professional services contracts;
• Principles and techniques of budget preparation, and program and personnel management;
• Principles and practices of supervision, training, and constructive discipline;
• Bid and contract analysis and preparation techniques;
• Accounting principles and practices;
• Theories, principles, and practices of design management, construction management, quality assurance/quality control, and construction inspection;
• Theories, principles, and practices of claim avoidance and claim resolution;
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing public procurement and contract administration processes for construction contracts.

• Federal and state requirements for conducting qualifications-based procurements, as detailed under the Federal Brooks Act and in the California Public Contract Code;
• Manage and direct the operations, services, and activities of the unit;
• Prepare comprehensive specifications, contracts, reports, and correspondence;
• Develop negotiation strategies and negotiate complex contracts and/or change orders;
• Define problems, evaluate, recommend, and implement alternative solutions to complex issues and problems;
• Develop, implement, and interpret goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards, and internal controls;
• Interpret and effectively use management information reports;
• Select, supervise, train, motivate, assign, evaluate, counsel, and discipline staff;
• Understand, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures;
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
• Prepare and control a budget;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Application Processing Information  

All related current and past work experience (including VTA experience) must be listed and fully described in the Work Experience section of the application and answers to Supplemental Questions must be completed ("See Resume" or "See Attached" is not acceptable). Incomplete or improperly completed online applications may be rejected even if you are qualified for the position for which you are applying. It is your responsibility to ensure that the online application reflects the work experience and education needed to meet the requirements for the position you are applying for. Although your resume may have all your experience and education details, please make sure to complete each section of the online application to ensure that your information is accurately captured during our screening process.  

Important: Proof of Education, either as a copy of a diploma or transcript, is required to verify all educational units listed on your application. Official transcripts are not necessary. Copies of diplomas, degrees, transcripts, or foreign transcript evaluations must be attached to the submitted application as a PDF.  
 

Note: Failure to provide all of the required documents in the appropriate format (PDF ONLY), and properly labeled as shown in the example (for example: Smith_J BS Diploma), will result in the application being rejected as incomplete. No exceptions will be made.  
 

Note: Applicants holding degrees or credentials from outside the United States who are using these qualifications exclusively to qualify for a position are required to provide a foreign transcript evaluation as a PDF and properly labeled as shown above. Failure to provide a foreign transcript evaluation will result in the application being rejected as incomplete. No exceptions will be made.  
 

All applications are subject to review as to meeting minimum qualifications at any point in the recruitment process. Passing any step is no guarantee of continuation if it is determined that the applicant does not meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the class specification.  

Candidates found to have exaggerated/falsified their qualifications, experience, training, and/or education may be disqualified at any point in the recruitment process and may be denied future employment with the VTA.  

If selected for the position, candidates will be required to complete a criminal conviction disclosure form. Candidates who successfully become VTA employees, and fail to disclose any of the criminal background information as required may be subject to discipline up to and including discharge.  
 

Eligible Lists typically remain in effect for six (6) months. However, Human Resources may abolish Eligible Lists at any time during the six (6) month period. Human Resources may extend eligible Lists for up to two (2) years. Eligible Lists may be used for more than one recruitment. If you have questions related to an Eligible List you might be on or were on, you should contact Human Resources.  

If you have questions regarding your status as an applicant for this position, please call the Human Resources Department at (408) 321-5575 or email at Personnel@vta.org. 

Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodations
The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities. If you wish to request an accommodation, please click here.

The City of Santa Clara is recruiting for the Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer for its Electric Utility, Silicon Valley Power (SVP).  Reporting to the Chief Electric Utility Officer (CEUO), the Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior management position in the City's unclassified service responsible for the oversight and direction for the fiscal, administrative, and managerial operations of the utility. The COO has supervisory and support responsibilities for the utility's divisions: Utility Operations, Customer Development and Project Management, Resource Planning and Customer Engagement, and Business Services. The COO will help guide SVP through the extraordinary period of growth related by doubling the existing capacity of the electrical system to meet new customer demands over the next 10 years. In addition to the expansion, the COO will work to ensure new renewable resources are added to meet the City's and State’s climate goals. The COO is responsible for forecasting service requirements and for planning, organizing and directing assigned resources of the electric utility division in order to meet those requirements. This includes developing and administering the department operations and capital improvement budgets. The COO is expected to exercise critical thinking and detail oriented oversight in ensuring that utility operations are smooth, efficient, and compliant, with responsibility for results including costs, methods, and staffing.
 
As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.  An incumbent in this classification:  demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and values.
 
Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  
 
This recruitment is being conducted by JPowers Recruiting, Inc.  In order to be considered for this position, please apply via JPowers Recruiting Inc. at Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer (COO).  Candidates are encouraged to apply to receive first consideration.  The posting may close at any time.
 
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.
 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

The Department: 

The men and women of the Santa Clara Police Department take tremendous pride in providing the community with outstanding service through the "Santa Clara Way" of service.  In partnership with the citizens, the team provides law enforcement services with professional and dedicated staff. The team will always identify and resolve problems utilizing all available resources and perform services professionally and with a high level of integrity. To learn more visit our website.  

The Position: 

This is a management position in the unclassified service.  An incumbent in this position has the responsibility to plan, organize, lead, and control the operations of the Dispatch Division of the Police Department.  The incumbent, using good management and supervisory skills, manages, motivates, corrects, and evaluates assigned subordinate personnel.  Additionally, the incumbent will transmit messages or documents of a confidential nature.

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager. An incumbent in this classification: demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and values.

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

The annual salary range for this position is $156,770.64 - $202,878.00.  This position will be filled at or near the bottom of the salary range. 

Typical Duties:

Under general direction, duties may include, but are not limited to:
• Screens and recommends the selection of operations personnel; 
• Deals effectively with a wide range of personnel matters;
• Assists in the preparation of the annual budget for Communications Operations;
• Supervises operations personnel;
• Prepares statistical data;
• Conducts and oversees training programs for operations personnel;
• Performs liaison duties with other City departments;
• Coordinates emergency operations between various departmental personnel and equipment;
• Operates computer equipment for information essential to the operation of the department;
• Acts as the custodian of record for retention of recorded data;
• Maintains statistical information and other necessary data;
• Investigates and resolves complaints received from the public, user departments and other agencies;
• Counsels employees when appropriate; and
• Performs related duties as required for the position, including dispatching in times of emergency or when needed.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Equivalent to graduation from high school and thirty (30) semester units of college level work with an emphasis in public safety, supervision and management, public administration or related subjects; and
• Five years' experience dispatching in the public safety field, at least two (2) years of which having been at the supervisory level.
Possible Substitutions:
• Administrative or supervisory experience in a public safety department may be substituted for the dispatching experience on a year for year basis.

LICENSE
Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at time of appointment and for duration of employment.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS
• Willing to respond to callback in case of major emergencies or local disasters;
• Willing to work Saturdays and odd, irregular and unusual hours;
• Will be required to pass a City background investigation, which will include fingerprinting, polygraph and/or psychological testing; and
• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job.

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:
• Two way radio and telephone communications operations; and
• The rules and regulations of the FCC as they pertain to two way radio telephone communications.

Ability to:
• Schedule, organize, train, lead, and manage the work of subordinates;
• Spell correctly and write legibly;
• Enunciate clearly and distinctly;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, fellow workers and related agencies;
• Carry out oral and written instructions;
• Initiate and maintain written records and to write reports of unusual occurrences;
• Oversee the instruction and training of subordinates in operational procedures;
• Work in a team based environment and achieve common goals;
• Effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload and meet strict deadlines;
• Maintain composure and work accurately in emergency situations;
• Operate computer and other business tools; and
• Bend, stoop, reach, walk up and down stairs and stand or sit for prolonged periods of time.
 

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter and, 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This recruitment is open until filled and applications will be screened every 2-3 weeks. A first review of applications will be on January 31, 2024. 

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov. 

This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and selections may be made at any time within the process. It is recommended to apply immediately. The review of applications received will occur at the end of each month.  

**To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; 

AND

 

• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or

OR

• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; 

OR

• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

The City
The City of Santa Clara is a "full service" city – one of only a few communities in the Bay Area that has its own police, fire, library, recreation, and electric, water, and sewer utilities, as well as all of the other departments and civic amenities expected in a thriving community. Santa Clara is a family-oriented and business-friendly city, led by a city government that has developed an award-winning ethics program and a commitment to fostering public trust. Located in Santa Clara County at the southern tip of San Francisco Bay, about 45 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Clara is a strategic regional hub, convenient to freeways, airports, railroads, expressways, light rail, and other public transportation.

The Department
The men and women of the Santa Clara Police Department take tremendous pride in providing the community with outstanding service through the "Santa Clara Way" of service.  In partnership with the citizens, the team provides law enforcement services with professional and dedicated staff. The team will always identify and resolve problems utilizing all available resources and perform services professionally and with a high level of integrity. To learn more visit our website.   

The Position 
As a Public Safety Dispatcher II, this non-sworn classification dispatches public safety, fire, and emergency medical services out into the community. The successful incumbent will be responsible for receiving incoming calls for police, fire, or medical assistance and dispatch necessary units. This classification is distinguished from the Public Safety Dispatcher I by a broader range of responsibility due to a higher level of experience and training.  

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview will be required prior to appointment. 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESDIES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS. ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level classification in the non-sworn flexibility staffed Public Safety Dispatcher I/II series. Incumbents are expected to work independently and exercise judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the class of Public Safety Dispatcher I in that the latter is the entry level class where incumbents are trained on full range of dispatch functions under immediate supervision. This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher in that the latter has full responsibility for supervising a shift of Public Safety Dispatchers I/II.

 

 

Typical Duties

 

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all the duties that may be performed.

• Operates base radio console equipment, transmitting and receiving routine and emergency messages
• Receives emergency and routine requests for services from the public via 9-1-1, alternate emergency lines, and business lines
• Dispatches appropriate emergency vehicles, equipment and personnel in response to those requests, in accordance with established policies and procedures
• Coordinates emergency operations between various departmental personnel and equipment
• Operates data terminals for information pertaining to daily public safety operations, and general emergency services
• Maintains written logs, files, and computer information in the prescribed manner
• Updates computer files and performs other clerical functions and tasks as directed
• Performs other related duties as assigned

 

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Classroom education involving fire science or law enforcement related studies.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate and a valid Medical Priorities Dispatching System (MPDS) Certificate are required prior to the completion of the probationary period.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to perform all the essential functions of the job assignment. All candidates will be required to pass a City background investigation, which will include fingerprinting and may include polygraph and/or psychological testing.

PERMANENT CITY EMPLOYEES PREFERENCE POINTS
Current permanent employee candidates who receive a passing score on the examination will have an additional five (5) points added to his/her final score. 

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application. 
 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 

Knowledge of:

• General public safety radio and telephone communications systems
• Police and fire emergency procedures
• Primary roads, streets, highways, major buildings, and public facilities within the City's boundaries

Skill in:

• Reading and interpreting maps; and maintaining accurate records

Ability to:

• Read, write, spell, and speak in clear, concise English
• Learn correct telephone answering techniques, policies and procedures
• Operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system with sufficient speed and accuracy to document field activity and create calls for service within response criteria guidelines
• Analyze situations quickly and accurately, while taking effective action to assure public safety provider and citizen safety
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and distinctly using radio and telephone equipment
• Maintain composure and work accurately in emergency situations
• Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
• Establish and maintain tactful, courteous, and effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work, including the general public
• Work in a confined area, wearing a headset which restricts physical movement about the work area
• Accurately enter information into the CAD system while simultaneously receiving information by phone or radio
• Retrieve data from CAD terminal or other keyboard device, maintain appropriate documentation of previous events, details, and conversations
• Work in a highly structured environment where all communications are recorded or documented and reviewed as public record
• Handle multiple priorities and organize workload
• Extract information or data from other computer systems
• View multiple video display terminals for extended periods of time in low variable light conditions
• Distinguish and interpret the meaning of colors on video display terminals
• Distinguish and comprehend simultaneous communications from several sources
• Work continuously or uninterrupted as required, standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Perform with a high standard of customer service, professional conduct, and civic responsibility
• Use emergency medical questioning techniques and provide medical instructions via telephone when required
• Type at a net rate of 35 wpm on a computer keyboard

Additional Information: 
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a complete City Application and meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov.  This position is continuous: Applications will be reviewed at the end of each month for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.  

City of Los Altos
Invites you to apply for the position of:

Communications Officer

$107,060.49 - $130,132.69 Annually

EXCITING OPPORTUNITY! The Police Communications Center is a fast-paced environment serving first responders and the community during emergency and non-emergency events. Communications Officers interact daily with the public and law enforcement personnel through phone calls, 9-1-1 events, in person and over the police radio system. We are looking for highly skilled professionals who can multi-task and react calmly during emergency situations, while making quick decisions and determining the nature and severity of service calls. If you are looking to make a difference in the City of Los Altos while working in the Communications Center, this position is for you!

ABOUT THE POSITION

Under general supervision, the Communications Officer, as a member of the Police Department, transmits and receives information over the police and public works radio system; dispatches routine and emergency calls for service; types, records, and files information; handles emergency and non-emergency telephone calls utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer aided dispatch systems (CAD), and performs related work as assigned.

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Receives emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from the public for police, fire, or other emergency services; determines the nature of the call and the resources necessary to respond.
• Monitors police radio communications; maintains contact with police units to track officer status and respond to need for additional resources; monitors various radio channels to keep abreast of county-wide police activities affecting the City and assist other county agencies with mutual aid.
• Prioritizes requests for police and other public safety services; determines availability and location of patrol units; transmits information and dispatches police personnel and equipment in response to calls; routes calls for fire and emergency medical assistance to the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
• Assists police personnel in the field by quickly and accurately researching and relaying criminal history information and other requested data.
• Receives and coordinates requests for emergency Public Works assistance outside of the City’s normal business hours (pertaining to full municipal services in Los Altos, and sewer maintenance requests in Los Altos Hills and the surrounding unincorporated areas).

Click here to view the full job description and duties.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills; ability to multi-task in stressful situations. Communicates effectively and proactively both verbally and in writing. Enjoys working in a small-town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE OF: Standard office methods, procedures, software and equipment; Geography of the local area; General public safety communications practices; Principles of customer service.

SKILL AND ABILITY TO: Multi-task and prioritize; Efficiently use radio and other communications equipment; Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Analyze situations quickly and accurately; Maintain composure and work effectively under pressure; Understand and follow oral and written direction; Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties; Establish, maintain, and promote positive working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, & CERTIFICATES:

Any combination of the listed experience and education requirements may lead to a qualifying application. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:

• A minimum of one year of public safety radio dispatching and/or basic clerical experience is required

Education:

• Possession of a High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required.
• Proof of successful completion of either the Criticall Dispatcher test with a passing score or the P.O.S.T. Entry-level Dispatcher Test with a T-score of 50 or above. (Lateral applicants that are currently employed as a Public Safety Dispatcher (non-probationary) do not need to submit proof of test scores, however a California POST Dispatcher Academy Certificate is required.)
• Completion of college-level coursework is highly desirable

Certificates:

• Possession of a typing certificate with a minimum of 50 wpm dated within one year of the application date must be included as an attachment.
• Possession of Basic P.O.S.T. Dispatch Certificate is highly desirable and may be substituted for work experience.

This position will require the ability to work rotating shifts on an on-going basis, including irregular hours on short notice. This position will also be assigned a uniform to wear during work hours.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.