County Compass | Navigating the Civil Service Commission

San Juan County is pleased to present the monthly series County Compass: Navigating Civic Participation that shares ways to understand County systems, get involved with local government, and be an informed resident.

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

San Juan County benefits from a variety of boards, commissions, and committees who volunteer their time and expertise to support key County operations. One such group of volunteers is the Civil Service Commission. This dedicated group helps to establish merit-based systems of evaluation and employment for those seeking jobs in the County Sheriff’s Office. This helps raise the standards and efficiency of hiring and provides opportunities for equal employment.

How does this work?  

Candidates interested in applying for a position as an entry-level deputy sheriff, dispatcher, or corrections officer must complete a series of examinations, including a written test through “Public Safety Testing” and an oral board panel review.   A candidate’s combined scores from all examinations will place them on an eligibility list with an associated ranking. It is the Civil Service Commission’s responsibility to certify the eligibility list and make it available for the Sheriff’s Office.

What else does the Civil Service Commission do? 

• Create rules and regulations about how the examination process is held
• Designate what other practical tests are required for assessing if candidates are fit for the position
• Ensure that the assigned process is being followed, and investigate if there are concerns from candidates
• Conduct hearings and investigations on any concerns that candidates may have about their scores
• Appoint a chief examiner who will serve as the secretary/assistant as necessary
• Maintains supervisory responsibility over the chief examiner
• Additional duties as indicated in 41.14.060

How can I get involved? 

YOU can contribute your time by applying to become a commissioner, or by serving on the oral board panel. Oral board panels are comprised of one representative from the Sheriff’s Office, and two community members. They occur approximately every six weeks or as scheduled. As an oral board panel member, you will have an opportunity to gain interviewing experience and have a direct impact on your community’s law enforcement personnel.

How do I become a commissioner?

Advisory board/committee application packets are available on the county’s website. You can also reach out to Aiden Haines, the Council’s Administrative Coordinator, at aidenh@sanjuancountywa.gov. Applicants are strongly encouraged to read through RCW 41.14 to gain a deeper understanding of the Civil Service Commission’s duties and responsibilities.

Where can I learn more? 

Do you have more questions about the County’s Civil Service Commission or are you interested in serving on the oral board panel?  Reach out to Nadine Varsovia, civilservice@sanjuancountywa.gov to find out how you can get involved