DSHS ESH Security Guard 1 (Control Center Operator)

State of Washington • Spokane County - Medical Lake, WA

5h • Onsite

About The Position

DSHS’ Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration (BHHA) is seeking a Control Center Operator, also known as a Security Guard 1, to join the dedicated team at Eastern State Hospital (ESH) in Medical Lake, WA. As a Control Center Operator, you’ll serve as a central point of communication and coordination for security, safety, PERT, and hospital staff. You’ll operate a multi-line phone and radio system, monitor fire panels, closed-circuit cameras, emergency and radio alarms, and ward and treatment team radio traffic. During emergencies, you’ll help coordinate critical communications both within the hospital and with external emergency responders. Strong customer service skills and the ability to think and act quickly in high-pressure situations are essential for success in this role. You’ll also handle sensitive information where confidentiality, professionalism, and compassion are equally important.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED and one year of experience in areas of work such as: security guard, correctional officer or store investigations, or, police officer, police reserve officer, military police, or other law enforcement work.
• OR A certificate of completion in a basic law enforcement training program approved by the Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission; or, a certificate of completion in a police or reserve police academy or military training program.
• A valid driver's license may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience as a receptionist, switchboard or PBX operator, radio communications operator, or in clerical office work involving direct contact with the public.
• Communicates effectively with staff, patients, visitors, emergency responders, and the public, including during high-pressure or sensitive situations.
• Responds calmly and effectively to emergencies, follows established procedures, and takes appropriate action during fires, medical emergencies, patient elopements, and other critical incidents.
• Demonstrates strong observation and situational awareness, recognizing unusual or suspicious activity and gathering pertinent information when incidents occur.
• Understands safety and security practices, including building access, fire prevention, emergency procedures, basic first aid, and appropriate methods for responding to safety or security concerns.
• Learns and operates security and communication systems, follows written and verbal instructions, and prepares clear, accurate reports documenting incidents and actions taken.

Responsibilities

• Operate a multi-line phone system, paging system, and digital radio interface to facilitate communication throughout the hospital.
• Receive, screen, and route incoming calls to appropriate staff, departments, or services, and assist callers with general information.
• Monitor fire panels, staff emergency alarms, and hospital digital radio channels, responding promptly to alarms and radio traffic.
• Coordinate emergency communications and notify key personnel during patient elopements, fires, disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents.
• Arrange ambulance or air ambulance services when medical emergencies arise and coordinate security or staff escorts as needed.
• Maintain awareness of staff and patient locations and movement to efficiently locate and contact individuals when needed.
• Provide telephone and communication services for staff and patients, including collect, credit card, and long-distance calls, while providing professional and compassionate service to visitors and callers.

Benefits

• Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• Evening and Night shifts include a shift differential in addition to the standard compensation rate.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED