Transit Officer

Spokane Transit Authority (STA) is a public transportation agency serving Spokane County and nearby communities in Washington State. As a vital part of the regional infrastructure, STA is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transit services to the public, connecting people to jobs, education, health care, and other essential destinations. The agency operates a fleet of buses and paratransit services with a strong commitment to accessibility, equity, and sustainability. With a focus on employee well-being and community engagement, Spokane Transit fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment that supports diverse backgrounds and experiences. STA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce, ensuring all qualified applicants receive fair consideration without discrimination based on age, disability, ethnicity, race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

The Transit Officer position at Spokane Transit Authority plays a critical role in maintaining the safety and security of employees, customers, and agency assets by assisting the Security Manager in implementing Spokane Transit's security program. This full-time role, offering a competitive hourly wage ranging from $27.32 to $36.61 with an additional $2.00 shift differential for evening shifts, involves responding to a variety of situations including criminal acts, disputes, and other incidents that impact safety and security. The Transit Officer must exercise independent judgment and sound decision-making in environments where limited standards, codes, or regulations might apply. The position requires extensive public interaction and includes duties in both office environments and outdoor settings under variable weather conditions.

In this role, Transit Officers conduct thorough physical security assessments of transit facilities and property, diligently monitor surveillance systems, and actively engage with customers to provide assistance and ensure a secure transit experience. They are tasked with documenting incidents accurately in daily reports, security incident forms, and police reports, while maintaining important records and databases. Officers must handle communication effectively via radio and phone, coordinate with local law enforcement agencies when necessary, and maintain awareness of emerging threats. Key skills include de-escalation techniques, conflict resolution, and adaptability to rapidly changing situations. The role also involves walking or driving patrols, searching facilities and vehicles for suspicious items or individuals, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

Candidates with a background in public safety, security, law enforcement, or community protection will find this position well-suited to their skills. Preferred qualifications include coursework or a degree in Criminal Justice, psychology, or related fields. Candidates must possess a valid state driver's license and be able to obtain or maintain status as a Specially Commissioned Peace Officer in Spokane City and County, should the program be reinstated.

STA offers a comprehensive benefits package to support employees' health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include multiple medical plan options, dental coverage, a retirement system through the Washington State Public Employee's Retirement System (PERS), employer contributions to Health Reimbursement Arrangements, life and disability insurance, as well as vacation and sick leave accrual with paid holidays and floating holidays. Additional perks include free transit passes for employees and their dependents, onsite workout facilities, pet insurance, AFLAC supplemental insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.

The Transit Officer position represents a meaningful opportunity to contribute directly to the safety and security of Spokane's transit system while working in a dynamic and social environment that values public service and professionalism. Prospective candidates passionate about community safety, customer service, and law enforcement-related work will find Spokane Transit an employer of choice dedicated to supporting career growth and job stability. Applicants should expect a rigorous yet rewarding experience that demands strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills along with a commitment to public safety and security within an urban transit setting.