Engaged and Empowered: Building Staff Potential with Bespoke Development Tools
When it comes to effective professional development, one size does not fit all. The most impactful training efforts are those that adapt to the unique characteristics, aspirations, and learning styles of each employee. This is especially true in military and other government organizations, where staff may come from a broad range of educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds. The practice of individual consideration is not just a leadership theory but a practical tool that enhances engagement and accelerates growth. Research in leadership development confirms that personalized coaching significantly improves employee performance and satisfaction, particularly when it builds on the individual's existing strengths and interests (Yukl 2013)1.
In my experience, effective development begins with listening. Before assigning a training course or recommending a book, I invest time in understanding the person. What are their career goals? Where do they see themselves in five years? What tasks energize them, and which ones drain their motivation? Structured one-on-one conversations, performance reviews, and even informal check-ins provide valuable insight. This process not only builds trust but also helps align development activities with both the individual's goals and the organization's strategic objectives. When people feel seen and heard, they are far more likely to commit to the growth process and take ownership of their learning journey.
Structuring Development Through Intentional Planning
To move beyond ad hoc coaching, development must be embedded into a structured plan. An Individual Development Plan (IDP) is an effective tool for this purpose. An IDP outlines specific goals, identifies skill gaps, and maps out the steps needed to close those gaps over a defined period. Federal agencies have used IDPs for years to promote continuous learning and career progression (OPM 2023)2. Any organization, to include local governments, can adapt this model to fit their workforce, tailoring the framework to department-specific competencies and community priorities.
Effective IDPs are co-created between the supervisor and the employee. This collaborative process ensures that the development plan is not imposed but agreed upon. It also encourages accountability on both sides. The manager commits to providing support, resources, and feedback, while the employee commits to following through on their development goals. Regular check-ins, ideally quarterly, help monitor progress. During these meetings, both parties can adjust the plan based on emerging needs or shifting organizational priorities. This approach keeps development dynamic and responsive, rather than static and outdated.
Leveraging Formal Training and On-the-Job Learning
While mentorship and coaching are foundational, formal training programs continue to play a critical role in developing technical and leadership skills. These programs can include workshops, certificate courses, webinars, and conferences. However, training is most effective when it is directly tied to on-the-job application. The 70-20-10 model, widely adopted in leadership development, suggests that 70 percent of learning occurs through experience, 20 percent through coaching, and only 10 percent through formal instruction (Lombardo and Eichinger 2000)3. This model reinforces the need for practical, experiential learning.
To integrate formal training with real-world work, I often assign stretch assignments or cross-functional projects immediately following a training session. For example, if an employee attends a course on project management, they are given the opportunity to lead a small internal initiative. This hands-on application reinforces learning and builds confidence. It also allows supervisors to assess the impact of training and provide feedback. Additionally, peer learning groups or communities of practice can extend the value of training by encouraging staff to share lessons learned and best practices across departments.
Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning
Professional development is not a one-time event but a continuous process that must be supported by the organizational culture. Leaders at all levels must model learning behaviors, such as seeking feedback, attending training, and openly discussing their own development goals. When senior leaders prioritize growth, it signals to the entire organization that learning is a valued and expected part of the job. This cultural reinforcement is essential for long-term success. According to a study by the Center for Creative Leadership, organizations that promote learning agility are more adaptable and perform better during periods of change (DeMeuse et al. 2010)4.
To build this culture, I recommend incorporating development conversations into regular operations. During staff meetings, highlight recent training achievements or invite team members to share insights from courses they have completed. Recognize and reward those who take initiative in their growth. Make space for learning in performance evaluations by including development progress as a criterion. These actions collectively reinforce that development is not separate from the work but an integral part of it.
Navigating Budget Constraints and Resource Limits
One of the most common challenges in professional development, particularly in government settings, is limited funding. Budget constraints often make it difficult to send staff to conferences or pay for external training providers. However, development does not need to be expensive to be effective. Internal knowledge sharing, job shadowing, and mentoring require minimal financial investment but yield significant returns. Partnering with nearby agencies or academic institutions can also provide access to shared training resources. Many universities with public administration programs are willing to collaborate on workshops or offer discounted access to continuing education courses (ICMA 2022)5.
Another strategy is to identify and develop internal trainers. Subject matter experts within the organization can be trained to deliver workshops, lead discussion groups, or facilitate simulations. This not only reduces costs but also empowers staff and reinforces internal expertise. Additionally, virtual learning platforms have expanded access to quality training at a lower cost. Platforms like FEMA's Emergency Management Institute or the National Highway Institute offer free or low-cost courses tailored to government professionals (FEMA 2023)6. Leveraging these resources requires upfront planning but pays off in sustained workforce capability.
Maximizing the Impact of Development Efforts
No matter how well-designed a development plan is, it must be evaluated for impact. This includes measuring both immediate outcomes, such as knowledge gained, and long-term effects, like improved performance or promotion readiness. Kirkpatrick’s Four-Level Training Evaluation Model provides a useful framework for this assessment, covering reactions, learning, behavior, and results (Kirkpatrick and Kirkpatrick 2006)7. Using pre- and post-training assessments, performance metrics, and feedback surveys, organizations can determine whether their development investments are yielding the desired outcomes.
Metrics should not only focus on individual growth but also on organizational benefits. For example, has customer service improved following staff training? Are project timelines more consistently met? Are employee retention rates higher among those who have received coaching? These indicators help justify continued investment in development and guide future strategies. When evaluation is built into the process from the start, it enhances accountability and ensures that development efforts remain aligned with organizational goals.
Bibliography
Yukl, Gary. Leadership in Organizations. 8th ed. Boston: Pearson, 2013.
U.S. Office of Personnel Management. “Individual Development Plans.” Last modified September 2023. https://www.opm.gov.
Lombardo, Michael M., and Robert W. Eichinger. The Career Architect Development Planner. 3rd ed. Minneapolis: Lominger Limited, 2000.
DeMeuse, Kenneth P., Guangrong Dai, and George S. Hallenbeck. “Learning Agility: A Construct Whose Time Has Come.” Center for Creative Leadership, 2010.
International City/County Management Association (ICMA). “Navigating Professional Development on a Budget.” August 2022. https://icma.org.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “Emergency Management Institute Independent Study Program.” Accessed March 2023. https://training.fema.gov.
Kirkpatrick, Donald L., and James D. Kirkpatrick. Evaluating Training Programs: The Four Levels. 3rd ed. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler, 2006.
More from Professional Development and Training
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Professional Development and Training
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE Working within the Department of Social Services (DSS) Information Technology Services (ITS) Technology Enablement unit, you will support the Human Resources Administration (HRA) and Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Under the direction of the Executive Director, you will assess and implement complex IT initiatives by building, creating, and testing technical, online, asynchronous, and webinar computer-based training courses, modules, and videos for new and updated ITS software systems. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Use established standards and requirements to design and deliver engaging training via mobile, online, video, and other broad reach vehicles. - Collaborate using Confluence to review business requirements and Jira to research user stories, acceptance criteria, specifications, and UAT test cases. - Develop and maintain working relationships with business users and technical teams to ensure effective collaboration and implement stakeholder feedback. - Create computer-generated animations, graphic and motion assets, software screen recordings, voice recordings, sound effects, multimedia effects, and closed captions. - Combine video, visual computer assets, and voice recordings into prototypes and final projects. - Develop prototypes and pilot presentations utilizing editing tools such as Adobe Premier Pro, Frame.io, and After Effects. - Develop online training storyboards to host eLearning on NYC and NYS computer-based Learning Management Systems for agency staff. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in computer science, engineering, human computer interaction, interactive media, digital and graphics design, data visualization, communication, or a related field, and four years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization in a relevant technology, process, methodology, or domain. 2. An associate degree from an accredited college in the aforementioned fields, and six years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization. 3. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in any field, and eight years of satisfactory full-time related experience with a specialization. 4. An education and/or experience combination equivalent to options 1, 2, or 3. Preferred skills include strong business acumen, understanding of infrastructure technologies, excellent communication skills, proficiency in training needs analysis, expertise in instructional strategies, experience designing eLearning solutions, proficiency in Agile development, and knowledge of SCORM-compliant e-training specifications. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - New York City residency is not required for this position. SELECTION PROCESS - No exam is required for this position. HOW TO APPLY - Submit your application for Job ID 784268. - Apply by the posting deadline of 10/11/2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Full-Time position. - Work Location: 33 Beaver St, New York, NY (Manhattan). - Department: Mgmt Information System-NM. - Hours/Shift: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. - Category: Technology, Data & Innovation. - Experience Level: Experienced (Non-Manager). - Job Level: 00. - Number of Positions: 1. - Title Classification: Non-Competitive-5. - Posted on 08/12/2026. - Eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer.
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Pleasant Hill is seeking Police Officer Academy Graduates to serve a community that highly values law enforcement services. This role offers excellent pay, benefits, and opportunities for promotion. Officers work 12-hour shifts as part of a team concept and may serve in patrol, traffic, investigations, K-9, or various special assignments such as Regional SWAT, CSI, Crisis Intervention Team, and Field Training Officer. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Patrol assigned areas by car, foot, or motorcycle - Perform crime suppression and prevention activities - Conduct initial and follow-up investigations for various law violations - Enforce traffic laws and perform crowd control or special event duties - Administer first aid in emergencies and assist in prisoner custody and care - Obtain and process evidence, take written statements, and prepare required reports - Serve warrants and subpoenas and testify in court regarding prosecutions - Respond to questions, concerns, and requests for service from the general public - Establish positive working relationships with community organizations, agencies, and the public - Participate in ongoing training courses and programs MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - High school diploma - 45 units of college-level course work (up to 15 semester units may be credited for an honorable discharge with a minimum of 3 years of active duty in the U.S. Armed Services) - Graduation from a P.O.S.T. basic academy - At least 21 years of age at the time of appointment - Meet the physical requirements established by the California P.O.S.T. screening manual - Knowledge of police methods, criminal law, rules of evidence, and self-defense tactics - Ability to observe accurately, think and act quickly in emergencies, and prepare grammatically correct written reports SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Thorough background check - Pre-employment physical examination, including a drug screen - Psychological evaluation - Polygraph examination - Proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States on the first day of employment SELECTION PROCESS 1. Ongoing review of applications based on the quality of experience, education, and training 2. Oral board interview for the most qualified applicants (weighted 100%, requiring a passing score of 70 or more from each panel member) 3. Comprehensive background check, physical, drug screen, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam for top candidates 4. Placement on an eligibility list upon achieving qualifying scores HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application online as soon as possible, as recruitment may close at any time. - For more information, contact Sgt. Ron Priebe at (925) 288-4644 or rpriebe@pleasanthillpd.org. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Full-Time - Bargaining Unit: PHPA - Department: Police Department - Location: City of Pleasant Hill, CA - Opening Date: 09/17/2025 - Work Schedule: 12-hour shifts (4-10 and 3-12 schedules), which may be rotated periodically among patrol, traffic, and criminal investigation - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pleasant Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Requests for special accommodations should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.
ABOUT THE ROLE Located in the District of Columbia Department of Health (DC Health), this position is part of the School Health Services Program. The incumbent serves as a Nurse Specialist (Nurse Educator) responsible for developing, coordinating, and delivering orientation, competency-based training, continuing education, and clinical skills validation for School Health Suite staff. The role promotes evidence-based practice, ensures compliance with nursing standards and regulatory requirements, and serves as a clinical resource to support high-quality healthcare delivery and improved student health outcomes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Secure health and developmental history, record findings, and make critical health evaluations - Perform or request special screening, developmental, and laboratory tests, and interpret results - Evaluate total health care needs and develop plans to meet them - Provide physiological nursing care, monitor adherence to medical regimens, and deliver emergency services or crisis intervention - Evaluate nursing and medical aspects of the Plan of Care and make home visits when directed - Provide health care and preventive services including guidance on nutrition, common illnesses, and child development - Coordinate health care services with medical professionals and external agencies - Assist the supervisor with performance management, prepare reports, and maintain administrative records - Serve in a teaching capacity, schedule and participate in case conferences, quality assurance committees, and in-service presentations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Education: Graduate or higher level degree in nursing from an accredited educational program in the area of expertise or specialty (required for Advanced Practice Nurse positions). 2. Experience: Specialized experience equivalent to at least one year at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. 3. Preferred: At least 3 years of hands-on patient experience in a healthcare or school setting within a managerial role. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation with Automated External Defibrillator Component (CPR/AED). - Current license as a Registered Nurse and Advanced Practice Nurse in the District of Columbia. - National certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). - Valid driver's license to operate a government or personal vehicle for site visits and trainings. - Safety-Sensitive Designation: Must pass criminal background check, traffic record check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Must comply with periodic, random, and reasonable suspicion drug screenings. Marijuana use is disqualifying even with a medical card. - Employment Sponsorship: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship. SELECTION PROCESS - Continuous Recruitment: Applications are reviewed and screened every two weeks. Qualified applicants may be referred to the hiring manager throughout the open period until staffing needs are met. - Agency Wide Consideration: Qualified individuals may be considered for other current open vacancies within DC Health for which they qualify. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit your application through the official DC Health job portal referencing Job ID 33147. 2. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your specialized experience, education, and all required licenses and certifications. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employment Type: Full-Time, Regular, Career Service - Term Appointment - Location: 2201 Shannon Place SE, Washington, D.C. (includes travel to community venues) - Agency: Department of Health - Grade: 12 (Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0610-12) - Bargaining Unit: C13 (represented by DCNA, agency fee/dues may apply via payroll) - Tour of Duty: Monday - Friday, 8:15 AM - 4:45 PM - Date Opened: 08/17/2026 - Date Closed: 09/21/2026 - Area of Consideration: Open to the Public
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Pasadena Police Department is seeking dedicated and ambitious individuals to start their law enforcement careers. The department is founded on a culture of community service, proactive problem-solving, fairness, and personal engagement. Officers work in partnership with residents and the business community to protect and enhance safety. The role offers a range of assignments and opportunities, including involvement in major events like the Rose Bowl, Old Town activities, and movie or TV filming. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Proactively solve problems and enforce the law with fairness and personal engagement. - Evaluate sensitive and dangerous situations quickly and take effective, reasonable action. - Interact and communicate tactfully and effectively with a culturally diverse population. - Write clear and accurate reports based on strong reading comprehension of departmental policies, laws, and regulations. - Demonstrate respectful community policing through considerate behavior for people and neighborhoods. - Adapt to frequent change and remain highly service-oriented. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Successfully completed a California POST basic police academy within the last 36 months. - Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment. - Legally authorized to work in the United States. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Possession of a Class C California Driver's License at the time of appointment and as a condition of continued employment. - Vision requirements: With glasses, at least 20/100 correctable to 20/30 and free from color blindness. For those who have successfully worn soft contact lenses for at least one year, vision must be 20/200 uncorrected, correctable to 20/30, and free from color blindness. - No convictions of any felony offense, certain misdemeanor offenses, offenses reflecting lack of character, judgment, or morals, or any other than honorable military discharge. - Must be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, which might adversely affect the exercise of peace officer powers. - Shift and overtime work will be required. - Must upload the POST academy certificate of completion as an attachment when applying. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Training and experience evaluation. 2. Physical Agility Test (Pass/Fail): 30 push-ups within 2 minutes, 30 sit-ups within 2 minutes, 1.5-mile run within 14 minutes, and lift/drag a 165-pound dummy 32 feet within 10 seconds. 3. Oral Interview Examination (Weighted 100%): 5-10 questions from current sworn personnel regarding city demographics, interest in the department, and a scenario question. 4. Eligible List: Candidates with a qualifying score remain on the list for one year. 5. Veterans Preference: Three points added to the final qualifying score for veterans with at least one year of active military duty and documentary evidence of honorable discharge. 6. Background Investigation: Comprehensive review of background, education, employment history, credit, criminal record, DMV review, and polygraph examination. 7. Police Chief's Background File Review and Oral Interview. 8. Polygraph Examination to determine truthfulness of qualifications and suitability. 9. Psychological Evaluation by a licensed psychologist. 10. Medical Examination prior to appointment. 11. Successful candidates are subject to an 18-month probationary work period. HOW TO APPLY Applicants must apply online and upload their California POST basic police academy certificate of completion as an attachment. Veterans seeking preference points must submit documentary evidence of honorable discharge with their application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Pasadena - Department: Police - Location: Pasadena, CA - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 26-094 - Opening Date: 01/08/2026
ABOUT THE ROLE The Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) is seeking an experienced curriculum specialist to design and update instructional material for in-person and online law enforcement training. This role focuses on translating state-mandated guidelines and best practices into actionable, engaging, and legally sound lesson plans, storyboards, and eLearning formats for law enforcement officers across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Coordinate with subject matter experts to research, create, and develop annual in-service curriculum within established timelines. - Partner with experts to revise in-person learning and e-learning lesson plan frameworks. - Develop, update, and revise lesson plans to incorporate research-based best practices for adult learning and police training. - Coordinate curriculum update classes for all MPTC certified instructors on new and revised lessons. - Train MPTC certified instructors on adult learning activities and techniques. - Create or assist with script development, storyboarding, and video-editing for online content rollout. - Work across divisions to ensure MPTC required regulations and critical projects are completed accurately and on time. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - At least four years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) professional, administrative, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, or public administration, with major duties involving program management, administration, coordination, planning, or analysis. - At least one year of the required experience must be in a supervisory capacity. - Substitutions: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field may substitute for up to two years of experience. A Graduate degree in a relevant field may substitute for up to three years of experience. A Bachelor's or higher degree in an unrelated field may substitute for up to one year of experience. No substitutions are permitted for the required one year of supervisory experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred: 5 or more years of experience in Curriculum Development or Instructional Design, ideally within a law enforcement, criminal justice, or military setting. - Preferred: Knowledge of adult learning principles, educational best practices, and pedagogy. - Preferred: Advanced experience with Microsoft Suite, Airtable, Adobe, Canva, Articulate software, and video editing programs. - Preferred: Basic project management skills and knowledge of the law enforcement field. - This position is potentially eligible for a hybrid work schedule. SELECTION PROCESS - First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days of the job posting. - The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. HOW TO APPLY - Applications must be submitted through the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts employment portal by creating a profile and applying for the job. - Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact the Diversity Officer and ADA Coordinator, Aiesha Grenier, at 857-276-3231. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Agency: Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) - Department: Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) - Job Type: Full-time - Shift: Day - Bargaining Unit: 06-NAGE - Professional Admin. - Location: Thomas Patten Drive, Randolph, MA - Job Posting Date: Jul 25, 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE The Iowa Office of Apprenticeship (IOA) within Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is seeking a highly organized Project Manager to advance Iowa’s work-based learning (WBL) system and support key Registered Apprenticeship (RA) initiatives. This role is central to expanding high-quality, sustainable WBL experiences, such as pre-apprenticeships and youth apprenticeships, that connect students and adults directly to in-demand careers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Works closely with businesses, schools, and community organizations to design and implement strong WBL strategies. - Provides technical assistance, advises on program structure, supports goal development, and promotes new opportunities to strengthen local talent pipelines. - Assists the State Apprenticeship Director by coordinating major RA projects, developing clear project plans, and creating internal processes and data tracking tools. - Partners with IOA staff, IWD teams, and agency leaders to ensure WBL and apprenticeship initiatives align with broader workforce priorities. - Serves as a primary point of contact for community colleges, high school administrators, school boards, chambers of commerce, nonprofits, employers, and other stakeholders. - Contributes to ongoing IOA and IWD efforts and supports emerging projects as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must meet at least one of the following requirements: 1. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and four years of full-time professional-level work in program administration, program development, program operations, or management. 2. A total of eight years of education and/or full-time experience, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience. 3. All of the following: a. Two years of full-time professional-level work experience in program administration, development, operations, or management; and b. A total of four years of education and full-time experience, where thirty semester hours equals one year of full-time experience; and c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience, where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate course work in a public-service-related area equals one year of full-time experience. (Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education). 4. Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes twelve months of full-time work as an Executive Officer 1 or comparable specific management-level position. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must not have a current, ongoing overpayment balance with Iowa Workforce Development without a payment plan in place. - Subject to a criminal background check. - Must be verified through the federal E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be evaluated based on meeting the minimum qualification requirements. - Selected candidates will be subject to a criminal background check. - Employment is contingent upon successful E-Verify and Right to Work compliance. HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the official State of Iowa employment portal before the closing date. - For questions, contact the Point of Contact: Dane Sulentic at dane.sulentic@iwd.iowa.gov. - Closing Date: September 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM Central. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: 309 Iowa Workforce Development - Employer: State of Iowa - Location: 1000 E Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50319 (Polk County) - Job Type: Full-time - Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM - Work Flexibility: Hybrid telework and alternate schedules available after six months of employment and training. - Opening Date: August 27, 2026 - Benefits: Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid time off (nine paid holidays, vacation, and uncapped sick leave accrual); IPERS retirement package with optional deferred compensation; Flexible Spending Accounts; free Life and Long-term Disability Insurance; and Employee Assistance and Discount Programs.
ABOUT THE ROLE Guide inmates at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Laurel Highlands through hands-on refrigeration training that builds confidence and practical skill. This role allows you to apply technical strengths while supporting both learning and essential facility operations, inspiring progress and encouraging steady development. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Training Instruction: Provide classroom and on-the-job teaching covering installation, repair, inspection, and maintenance of refrigeration systems and equipment. - Work Supervision: Direct inmate work crews, assign daily schedules, and inspect completed work for accuracy and quality. - Tool Management: Issue, track, and inventory tools and materials, and conduct searches to account for all items. - Material Planning: Identify needed materials and tools for refrigeration work assignments and submit purchase requests as required. - Progress Documentation: Maintain detailed records of inmate training, attendance, work assignments, and overall progress. - Operational Support: Perform related duties that align with facility needs and assist with refrigeration work orders as required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Five years of experience in the repair and servicing of refrigeration systems or air conditioning systems; or - Completion of an approved apprenticeship in the refrigeration or air conditioning mechanic trade; or - An equivalent combination of experience and training which includes one year of journey level work in the refrigeration or air conditioning mechanic trade. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess an active Universal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certificate issued by an approved provider. - Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required. - Must meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement. - Must be able to perform essential job functions. - Must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as the exam for this position. 2. No additional exam is required at a test center. 3. Score is based on the detailed information provided on the application and in response to supplemental questions. 4. Score is valid for this specific posting only. 5. Applicants may only apply or test once for this posting. 6. Results will be provided via email. HOW TO APPLY - Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed. Eligibility information must be provided directly on the application. - If claiming education in supplemental answers, a copy of college transcripts must be attached (unofficial transcripts are acceptable). - Applications must be submitted by the closing date: September 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Late applications will not be accepted. - Generative AI tools may be used for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent information or assist during interviews is not permitted. - Veterans may be eligible for employment preference under Pennsylvania law. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full-Time - Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30-minute lunch. - Telework: Not available for this position. - Retirement: Eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55. - Location: SCI Laurel Highlands, 5706 Glades Pike, Somerset, PA 15501 - Department: Department of Corrections, SCI Laurel Highlands - Union: PSCOA, Bargaining Unit H1, Pay Group CO37 - Contact: Corleen Schmucker, 717.562.5736, cschmucker@pa.gov
ABOUT THE ROLE The Denver Sheriff Department (DSD) is seeking qualified applicants for the December 2026 Training Academy. As the largest sheriff department in Colorado, DSD operates two detention facilities, provides court security, manages transportation and extradition, operates specialized units (Fugitive Apprehension, K-9), manages the vehicle impound facility, and provides security at Denver Health Medical Center. This dynamic role requires maintaining safety and security across these environments with professionalism, critical thinking, and adaptability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. - Maintain the custody, safety, and care of persons in custody across multiple operational environments. - Conduct searches for contraband, inspect for safety hazards, and monitor the behavior and well-being of persons in custody. - Transport persons in custody between detention centers, courts, medical facilities, and other designated locations. - Conduct intake and booking processes, reviewing charges, court orders, and legal status for proper classification and housing. - Inventory and maintain accountability of inmate property and departmental equipment, including keys, uniforms, and weapons. - Calculate release dates, communicate custody policies, and prepare required documentation such as bonds and census reports. - Respond to and investigate incidents, preserve scenes, maintain chain of custody for evidence, prepare reports, and provide court testimony. - Meet certification standards in firearms and tactical weapons and participate in ongoing training. - Serve in specialized or administrative roles as needed, including dispatch, training, recruitment, policy development, or gang intelligence. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduation from high school or possession of a GED, HiSET, or TASC Certificate. - No prior experience required for entry-level applicants. - For Lateral Deputy Sheriff: Currently employed by a law enforcement agency (or separated for one year or less) with a minimum of three years of experience, no pending internal affairs investigation, and no sustained discipline in the last three years. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be 21 years of age by the start of the academy. - Valid Driver's License at the time of application. - Must meet certified physical fitness standards adopted by the Department. - Must successfully complete a 16 to 18-week Recruit Training Academy covering physical fitness, defensive tactics, custody management, firearms, emergency driving, report writing, and scenario-based training. - Must have valid work authorization that does not require visa sponsorship. - Subject to redeployment during Citywide Emergencies. - Must pass Counting and Reading Comprehension assessments. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates are evaluated based on meeting minimum qualifications, passing required assessments (Counting and Reading Comprehension), and meeting physical fitness standards. - Lateral candidates are evaluated based on years of relevant experience, disciplinary history, and internal affairs status. - Note: AI tools may be used for resume writing or interview practice, but falsifying qualifications or using AI during interviews will result in disqualification. HOW TO APPLY 1. Apply online as soon as possible via the Denver Sheriff Department careers page: https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Sheriff-Department/Careers 2. Ensure all information provided is honest and reflects your own experience. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City and County of Denver - Agency: Denver Sheriff Department - Location: 5440 Roslyn, Denver, CO - Job Type: Full time - Job Requisition ID: R0082153 - Job Profile: CY1054 Dep Sheriff - Benefits: Outstanding benefits package including medical, dental, vision, health savings accounts, life insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, shift differential, comprehensive pregnancy policy, paid parental leave, and educational grants or tuition savings through Colorado Technical University.