Preventing Package Theft Without Turning Your Porch Into a Fortress
Picture this. It's a Tuesday evening, you're finally unwinding with dinner, and your phone buzzes with that satisfying little chime: "Delivered." You smile. Twenty minutes later, you swing open the door to grab your package, and the porch is empty. Just a lonely welcome mat and the sinking feeling that someone was standing exactly where you're standing now, holding something that belonged to you.
If you've been there, you know the theft itself is only half the story. The other half is the weirdly personal residue it leaves behind, the sense that a stranger sized up your home and decided it was worth the risk. It makes people do dramatic things. They install four cameras, buy a fake dog, google "how much does a moat cost." But here's the truth that most porch pirates don't want you to know: you don't need a fortress. You need a porch that simply isn't worth their time.
Opportunists Hate a Watched Porch
Most package thieves are not criminal masterminds plotting elaborate heists. They're opportunists driving through neighborhoods scanning for the easiest possible score, and according to the National Crime Prevention Council, reducing opportunity is the single most effective deterrent for this kind of crime. A porch that looks watched, well-lit, and slightly unpredictable is a porch they scroll past like a boring LinkedIn post.
Motion-activated lighting is the closest thing to a magic trick in this space. It's affordable, easy to install, and it fundamentally changes the environment the second someone approaches. A thief expecting a quiet grab suddenly feels spotlighted on a stage, and that psychological shift matters more than any expensive gadget you could bolt to the wall.
Shorten the Window of Vulnerability
Every minute a package sits in plain view on your porch is a minute someone could take it. So the goal is simple: shrink that window until it barely exists.
If your schedule lets you, use the delivery tools the carriers already built for exactly this problem. USPS Informed Delivery sends you scans of incoming mail and packages before they arrive. UPS My Choice lets you reroute deliveries, reschedule them, or leave specific instructions like "place behind the planter." FedEx Delivery Manager offers similar controls, including holding packages at a nearby location until you're ready. These are free, take about three minutes to set up, and most people never bother.
Adding a simple delivery note that redirects packages behind a column, next to a side door, or inside a screened porch removes the biggest thing thieves rely on, which is the assumption that your box is sitting in the open like a gift for the taking.
The Underrated Power of Not Being Home for the Delivery
Sometimes the smartest move is to not receive the package at your house at all. Amazon Hub Lockers let you send deliveries to a secure locker at a nearby pharmacy, grocery store, or apartment building, and you retrieve them with a code on your own schedule. UPS Access Point and FedEx Hold at Location work the same way. Yes, it's a small detour on your errand run. It's also a zero percent chance of theft, which is a trade a lot of people would happily make once they've been burned.
For frequent shoppers, a parcel drop box on the porch is worth considering. It doesn't have to look like a bank vault. Plenty of models blend into normal porch décor, and even a weighted deck box paired with clear delivery instructions can quietly solve the problem. Think of it as a mailbox that grew up.
Cameras Are Helpful, Not Heroic
A doorbell camera is a useful tool, but it is not a force field. Footage of a hooded figure walking off with your protein powder is satisfying to post on the neighborhood Facebook group and occasionally useful to police, but it rarely gets your package back. The International Association of Chiefs of Police consistently emphasizes layered prevention, meaning cameras work best when paired with lighting, placement, and community awareness rather than standing alone as your single line of defense.
If you already own a camera, keep it. Just don't let it be the whole plan.
Your Neighbors Are the Best Security System You Have
There's a reason "know your neighbors" has been on every crime prevention list for the last fifty years. A block where people casually notice each other, wave hello, and text when a delivery arrives is a block where opportunistic theft becomes deeply inconvenient. The Federal Trade Commission and community policing programs across the country consistently point to informal neighborhood watchfulness as one of the most effective and lowest-cost deterrents that exists.
You don't need a formal watch group with matching t-shirts. You need one or two neighbors who'll grab your box on a rainy Wednesday and expect you to do the same when they're at their kid's soccer game. Whether you're a manager building a team or a young professional building a life in a new city, the same principle applies: the strongest systems are usually the ones built out of small, reciprocal relationships.
Report It Even When It Feels Pointless
If theft keeps happening, file a report. It rarely leads to instant recovery, and yes, it can feel like shouting into a well. But every report contributes to a pattern that police and postal inspectors use to allocate resources and target repeat offenders. Your one incident is somebody's data point, and enough data points eventually become an investigation.
The Real Takeaway
Preventing package theft isn't about fear or fortification. It's about making your porch a little less predictable, a little less convenient, and a lot less rewarding for someone who's just looking for an easy grab. Lighting, smart placement, carrier tools, a locker or drop box when it makes sense, and neighbors who actually notice each other. That's the whole playbook.
So here's your move. Pick one thing from this article, just one, and do it before your next package arrives. Set up UPS My Choice on your lunch break. Screw in a motion light this weekend. Text the neighbor you've been meaning to talk to. Porch pirates count on your inaction. Prove them wrong.
References
Federal Trade Commission. "Consumer Advice." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://consumer.ftc.gov/.
FedEx. "FedEx Delivery Manager." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://www.fedex.com/en-us/delivery-manager.html.
International Association of Chiefs of Police. "Crime Prevention." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://www.theiacp.org/topics/crime-prevention.
National Crime Prevention Council. "Home and Neighborhood Safety." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://www.ncpc.org/resources/home-neighborhood-safety/.
United Parcel Service. "UPS My Choice." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://www.ups.com/mychoice/.
United States Postal Service. "Informed Delivery." Accessed July 15, 2026. https://informeddelivery.usps.com/.
More from 2 Topics
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Administration and Public Safety
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE The Denver Fire Department is seeking Fire Protection Engineers to perform professional engineering work focused on fire protection, life safety, building design, and code compliance. This role involves working closely with fire department personnel, other City agencies, engineers, architects, contractors, developers, property owners, and the public to ensure buildings and fire protection systems meet applicable safety requirements. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Evaluate system tests and reports for smoke control, standpipe/PRV, fire alarm, leak detection, and fire pump performance. - Analyze, evaluate, review, and issue approvals or denials of fire protection plans and life safety systems in new or existing buildings. - Review plans and processes regarding hazardous chemicals or materials to ensure proper fire safety provisions. - Evaluate the effectiveness of existing methods, policies, procedures, and proposed code modifications, recommending revisions. - Develop training programs related to model codes, methods, policies, procedures, and national design standards. - Assist DFD inspectors and personnel with inspections of existing and new buildings for code compliance. - Provide resource information and building and fire code requirements to developers, owners, contractors, and city agencies. - Provide technical assistance and guidance to department personnel regarding fire protection and fire resistive materials. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or a related field (Fire Protection, Mechanical, Electrical, or directly related engineering field preferred). - Experience: Two (2) years of professional experience in fire protection and life safety evaluation, design, engineering, or installation. (Ideal candidates have three or more years of experience as a licensed Professional Engineer within the building design and construction industry). - Licenses/Certifications: Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) by the Colorado State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers at the time of application. Registration by another state is accepted if Colorado registration is obtained by the completion of the probationary period. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - License Maintenance: Licenses and certifications must be kept current as a condition of employment. - Redeployment: Employees may be re-deployed to work in other capacities during a citywide emergency declared by the Mayor. - Work Authorization: Must have valid work authorization that does not require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S. SELECTION PROCESS - The City and County of Denver provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, age, or any other protected status. - Applicants may request oral or written language assistance, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning, or disability-related accommodations at no cost. HOW TO APPLY - Apply as soon as possible through the official City and County of Denver careers portal. - To request accommodations or language assistance, contact Jobs@Denvergov.org with three business days' notice. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Requisition ID: R0082764 - Job Profile: CE0409 Fire Protection Engineer - Department: Denver Fire Department - Position Type: Unlimited - Location: 201 W Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown Denver) - Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility. Hybrid work is available following a training period. - Closing Date: September 20, 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE This position performs general duty police work in the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Officers patrol designated areas, respond to emergencies, conduct criminal investigations, and engage with the community to preserve law and order and ensure public safety. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Exercise powers of arrest and control, including the authorized use of force or deadly force. - Enforce motor vehicle laws and operate vehicles under emergency conditions. - Respond to crime scenes, perform criminal investigations, and participate in special operations. - Patrol designated areas on foot or in a radio and computer-equipped vehicle to prevent and discover crime, direct traffic, and enforce parking regulations. - Answer calls and investigate complaints involving accidents, fires, misdemeanors, and felonies. - Administer first aid, interview witnesses, gather information and evidence, make arrests, prepare reports, and testify as a witness in court. - Perform specialized technical or administrative duties as assigned, such as police desk work, criminal records maintenance, license inspection, traffic safety training, field training, or radio operation. - Advise the public on laws and ordinances and provide general information and assistance. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Completion of high school or equivalent. - Successful completion of the Washington State Criminal Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy. - Possession of a valid driver's license. - Possession of a valid WSCJTC BLEA certification. - No prior law enforcement experience is required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be 20 years of age at the time of application and 21 years of age at the time of appointment. - Must be within the normal weight range for height. - Must meet physical requirements for eyesight, hearing, and other physical abilities consistent with state law and guidelines. - Must pass a post-offer physical and psychological examination prior to appointment. - A police record may be grounds for rejection. - Must successfully complete an 18-month probationary period upon hire. - Must complete and submit a Personal History Statement to conduct a mandatory background investigation. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application review to verify minimum qualifications are met. 2. Completion of an online Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E). 3. Submission of a mandatory Personal History Statement for a background investigation. 4. Post-offer physical and psychological examinations. 5. Placement on the hiring list according to final ratings, with additional examinations administered as applications are received and results merged into one eligible list. HOW TO APPLY Apply online through the City of Spokane application system. Upon notification of passing the minimum qualifications, you will receive an email from the City of Spokane (info@governmentjobs.com) with a Personal History Statement and T&E instructions. The Personal History Statement must be completed and submitted by the given deadline, or the application will not be considered. For alternative accessible tests or questions, contact the Civil Service department. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 901C-2026 - Department: Police - Location: City of Spokane, WA (808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., City Hall, 4th Floor, Spokane, WA 99201) - Opening Date: 06/29/2026 - Closing Date: 12/28/2026 4:00 PM Pacific
ABOUT THE ROLE This entry-level position is for applicants who are not currently a police officer for a different department and have not completed the Washington State Criminal Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy. The role involves preserving law and order, preventing and discovering crime, directing traffic, and enforcing regulations within the City of Spokane Police Department. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Patrol a designated area on foot or in a radio and computer-equipped vehicle. - Answer calls and investigate complaints involving accidents, fires, misdemeanors, and felonies. - Administer first aid, interview witnesses, gather information and evidence, make arrests, prepare reports, and testify in court. - Exercise powers of arrest and control, defend self, use force when necessary, and operate vehicles under emergency conditions. - Perform specialized technical or administrative duties such as working the police desk, maintaining criminal records, license inspection, traffic safety training, field training, or radio operation. - Advise the public on laws and ordinances, provide general information, and assist the public. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Completion of high school or equivalent. - Must be 20 years of age at application and 21 years of age at the time of appointment. - Within normal weight range for height. - Meet physical requirements for the position, including eyesight, hearing, and other physical abilities consistent with state law and guidelines. - Possess a valid driver's license. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass a post-offer physical and psychological examination prior to appointment. - Must pass the Public Safety Testing, Inc. (PST) examination and Physical Ability Test (PAT). - PST scores must be less than 15 months old. - Completion of a Personal History Statement is a mandatory minimum requirement for the background investigation. - A police record may be grounds for rejection. - Entry-level and certified employees will have an 18-month probationary period upon hire. SELECTION PROCESS - Recruitment is open until further notice. - Applicants must first pass the PST written examination and PAT to be eligible for hire. - After completing the PST, applicants will be invited to apply for the position. - A background investigation will be conducted using the completed Personal History Statement. - Alternative accessible tests are available upon request for individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills. HOW TO APPLY - Review disqualifiers and the Spokane Police Department Hiring Guidelines before applying. - Sign up and complete the Public Safety Testing, Inc. (PST) examination and PAT through their website. - Complete the mandatory Personal History Statement through the Public Safety Testing website. - Apply for the position after successfully completing the PST requirements. - Note: The standard PST written test cost is $65, which allows applicants to choose up to two agencies to receive their results. Additional fees apply for more agencies or non-designated test dates and locations. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: City of Spokane, WA - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Police - Opening Date: 04/06/2026 - Closing Date: 12/28/2026 4:00 PM Pacific - Employer: City of Spokane
ABOUT THE ROLE Full-time position at the City of Baltimore, Office of the Comptroller, located at City Hall. This role provides technical support to customers for personal computers, network system infrastructure equipment, mainframe client servers, and microcomputer software and hardware. The role may involve leading and training less experienced IT Specialists but does not include full supervisory duties. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide technical support and respond to helpdesk requests for personal computers and network infrastructure. - Test, update, maintain, and provide training on mainframe client servers and microcomputer software and hardware. - Lead and train less experienced IT Specialists as needed. - Install, repair, and troubleshoot network programs, hardware, and systems. - Develop database queries and generate reports. - Perform cartographic map design, ensuring accuracy of presentation, required map components, and layout. - Analyze, apply logic, and solve technology problems. - Design complex systems consisting of a wide variety of programs, procedures, and forms. - Schedule and perform preventative and corrective maintenance procedures and repairs. - Write detailed technical reports and analyses. - Develop systems software and systems software testing procedures. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university AND one year of related specialty IT experience (e.g., system engineering, network engineering, information security, application programming, systems design, database management, GIS experience, custom report writing, or cloud-based software integrations). 2. OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. If the degree is unrelated to IT, specialty IT experience is required. 3. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 4. Preferred: Previous IT work lead experience, previous IT experience in government, and advanced technical credentials (e.g., Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Eligible candidates under final consideration must complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprinting. - All selected persons, including current City employees, must complete a mandatory six-month probation. - This position requires completion of a Financial Disclosure pursuant to City Ethics Law within 30 days of hire. - Education must be obtained from an accredited institution. Out-of-US education credentials must be evaluated for US equivalency by a NACES-approved agency. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates indicating minimum qualifications on their applications will be placed on the eligible list without further examination. - Training and experience will be evaluated for appropriateness and quantity based on the application and any supplemental questions. - Qualified candidates will not be listed in rank order. - Successful applicants will be placed on the employment certified eligible list for at least six months. HOW TO APPLY - Submit your application no later than 12:00 AM on the closing date, September 11, 2026. - Ensure complete and accurate information is provided on the application, as vagueness or omission may prevent consideration. - For questions, contact Maya McEachern, HR Specialist II, at Maya.mceachern@baltimorecity.gov. - Applicants requiring accommodation should contact Human Resources directly and must not attach the request to the application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: City Hall, Baltimore, MD - Time Type: Full-time - Job Requisition ID: R0019018 - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans, plus wellness programs, support groups, and workshops. - Equal Opportunity: Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, prohibiting discrimination on any legally protected basis.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director supports the Director in overseeing procurement activities for the City of Atlanta, ensuring alignment with city goals, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This role involves managing high-impact projects, leading Project Managers and Business Process Analysts, and driving continuous process improvement and resource optimization through cross-departmental collaboration and stakeholder engagement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Operations Support: Assist the Director in managing procurement operations, ensuring compliance, and ensuring the successful delivery of procurement projects. - Project Management: Support the execution of large-scale procurement projects, overseeing project timelines, resources, and team performance. - Process Improvement & Technology: Contribute to the optimization of workflows and the integration of technology to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness. - Risk Management & Compliance: Assist in mitigating risks and ensuring procurement activities comply with all relevant regulations and standards. - Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Support cross-departmental collaboration and communication with external stakeholders to facilitate project success. - Performance Monitoring: Track and report on project performance, identifying opportunities for improvement and using data to optimize results. - Policy Implementation: Assist with policy development and provide recommendations for process improvements and adoption of new technologies. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Project Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). 2. Seven or more years of experience in procurement or project management, including three or more years in a leadership or support role managing procurement projects. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred qualifications include PMP or Lean Six Sigma certifications and experience in large-scale project management. - Core competencies required: Project and Risk Management, Process Optimization, Collaboration and Communication, Data-Driven Decision Making, and Leadership Support. SELECTION PROCESS Candidates will be evaluated based on their application materials, specifically their education, training, and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position. HOW TO APPLY Submit your application through the official City of Atlanta career portal before the deadline of September 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Department of Procurement - Location: 55 Trinity Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA, 30303, US - Job Type: Full time - Job Category: Admin - Job Identification: 34105 - Posting Date: 08/27/2026 - Application Deadline: 09/10/2026, 10:00 AM - Work Environment: Office-based with occasional travel. Extended hours may be required during peak project phases. - Equal Employment Opportunity: The City of Atlanta is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) Operations & Maintenance Group (O&MG) Facilities Management program manages buildings and grounds at treatment plants, off-site facilities, and pump stations. The Facilities Coordinator II supports a safe, efficient, and well-managed workplace by overseeing facility assets, coordinating facility projects, maintaining asset data within the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), and supporting a comprehensive preventive maintenance program. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Maintain accurate asset data within the CMMS, including equipment records, preventative maintenance schedules, and lifecycle information. - Prioritize, schedule, and account for the backlog of deferred maintenance, ordering and coordinating parts/materials and services. - Assist in the development and documentation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the O&M Facility Maintenance program. - Collaborate with internal teams, contractors, and vendors to plan and execute facility upgrades, repairs, and improvements. - Conduct routine facility inspections to identify safety hazards, maintenance needs, and operational efficiencies. - Ensure all facility work complies with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and organizational policies. - Participate in and lead facilities efforts in the condition assessment of BES Facilities assets. - Investigate and resolve employee complaints and repair requests. - Respond to facilities concerns regarding aging work orders and open requisitions. - Assist with facilities planning and forecasting. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Experience with facility operations, maintenance coordination, or asset management. 2. Knowledge of CMMS platforms and the ability to maintain accurate asset records. 3. Ability to coordinate multiple facility projects, including planning, scheduling, and communication with vendors or contractors. 4. Ability to read and interpret basic technical documents such as equipment manuals, drawings, or maintenance specifications. 5. Ability to embrace teamwork and maintain effective working relationships, applying appropriate customer service and conflict resolution skills. 6. Skill in evaluating consultant and/or vendor proposals and contracts, overseeing those contracts, and ensuring quality of vendor work. 7. Education/Training: Coursework from an accredited college or university in a relevant trade, business administration, public administration, or related field; OR Experience: Three years of progressively responsible experience involving analysis, planning, organizing, and/or evaluating programs in a public agency or customer service related field. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - A valid state driver's license. - Salary is determined based on experience listed in the resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position, in accordance with the Oregon Equal Pay Act. SELECTION PROCESS - Step 1: Apply online between August 31, 2026, and September 21, 2026. - Step 2: Minimum Qualification Evaluation (Week of September 21, 2026). Evaluation of training and experience demonstrated in resume and cover letter, weighted 100 percent. - Step 3: Establishment of Eligible List (Week of September 28, 2026). - Step 4: Selection (Interview) - TBD. - Step 5: Offer of Employment - TBD. - Step 6: Start Date - TBD. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Portland's online portal. - Attach a thorough cover letter (can exceed one page, up to three) specifically addressing each minimum qualification listed in the job announcement. - Attach a resume supporting the details described in the cover letter. - Answer the Supplemental Questions. - Optional: Veteran's Preference documents (e.g., DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter) must be submitted by the closing date if applicable. - E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted. Do not attach additional documents. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Number: 2026-00772 - Bureau: Bureau of Environmental Services - Location: Columbia Boulevard Plant, 5001 N Columbia Blvd., Portland, OR 97203 - Job Type: Regular - Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (alternate schedule may be available) - Union Representation: City of Portland Professional Workers (CPPW) - Opening Date: 08/31/2026 - Closing Date: 09/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific - Employer: City of Portland
ABOUT THE ROLE This position administers the City's central payroll function and guides management in financial decision making. The Payroll Manager acts as a liaison with IT and application vendors, ensures compliance with tax and benefit regulations, develops payroll policies, and supervises subordinate professional and technical staff to maintain fiscal accountability and data integrity. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Administer Citywide payroll HRMS functions and liaise with IT and application vendors to manage program applications. - Ensure accurate processing and remittance of employee payroll deductions, including taxes, court-ordered deductions, benefits, and deferred compensation. - Report and file payroll information and taxes with governmental agencies, and prepare and distribute W-2 forms. - Design and direct special HRMS projects targeting payroll transactions, and research and analyze system issues. - Develop policies and procedures affecting payroll administration and ensure operational units comply with reporting requirements. - Design and direct systems configurations for payroll HRMS, including customization, querying, troubleshooting, and administering security authorizations. - Audit and correct departmental payroll entries and employee paychecks, and work with external auditors to support the annual audit process. - Supervise, train, and evaluate subordinate professional and technical employees, including completing annual performance reviews. - Research and reconcile complex discrepancies in journal and accounting transactions. - Review new federal, state, and local legislation for its impact on current business processes and recommend actions to management. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration. - Five years of professional experience in payroll administration. - Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be accepted. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must have access to a computer to complete the online Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E). - Alternative accessible tests are available upon request for individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills. - As a Fair Chance Employer, the City of Spokane does not conduct initial background screening for non-public safety positions. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application review to verify minimum qualifications are met. 2. Qualified applicants will receive an email on September 16th, 2026, with Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E) instructions and forms. 3. Complete the online T&E examination between September 17th and September 21st, 2026. 4. Candidates who pass the examination will be placed on the hiring list. HOW TO APPLY Submit an application through the City of Spokane online system. Ensure all required information is provided to demonstrate you meet the minimum qualifications. For questions or to request alternative accessible tests, contact the Civil Service department. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 117-2026 - Department: Accounting - Location: City Hall, 4th Floor, 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, WA 99201 - Opening Date: 08/31/2026 - Closing Date: 9/14/2026 4:00 PM Pacific
ABOUT THE ROLE Traffic Control & Engineering at the Department of Transportation seeks a Procurement Analyst III to report to the TCE Fiscal Officer. The role involves highly responsible and complex procurement and contract administration for goods, services, and construction. This is an opportunity to work with a team dedicated to improving safety, accessibility, and mobility throughout New York City and maintaining transportation infrastructure crucial to the economic vitality and quality of life of residents. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Review purchasing requisitions, procurement documents, and contract packages to ensure accuracy of descriptions, specifications, and documentation. - Consult with program staff to resolve discrepancies. - Prepare specifications and solicitation documents for various procurement methods, requirements contracts, and specialized purchases. - Evaluate contract award recommendations, modifications, buy-against actions, and requests for contract time extensions. - Provide guidance and clarification regarding contract terms and conditions. - Monitor contractor performance, recommend corrective actions, and ensure compliance with procurement regulations. - Supervise fiscal staff and assume duties of the Fiscal Officer during temporary absences. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university; or 2. An associate degree or 60 semester credits, plus 12 months of full-time professional experience in procurement or contract negotiation/management; or 3. A four-year high school diploma or equivalent and two years of the experience described in 2; or 4. A combination of education and experience equivalent to the above. College education may substitute for experience at 30 credits for 6 months. All candidates need at least a high school diploma. Note: For Assignment Level II, candidates must have one year served at Assignment Level I or one additional year of experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be serving permanently in the Procurement Analyst title, reachable on the Civil Service List, or eligible under the 55a Program. - Proficiency in PASSPort, Financial Management System (FMS), and Direct Order (DMSS) is preferred. - Experience managing the full procurement cycle and analyzing budgets is preferred. - Knowledge of City Procurement Policy Board Rules is preferred. - Open to qualified persons with a disability eligible for the 55a Program. SELECTION PROCESS - Exam may be required. - Only applicants under consideration will be contacted. - No phone calls, faxes, or personal inquiries permitted. HOW TO APPLY - Current employees: Log on to Employee Self Service, follow the Careers Link, and search for Job ID 792378. - All other applicants: Go to www.nyc.gov/careers/search and search for Job ID 792378. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Trf Control & Eng Admin - Location: 58-50 57th Road, Maspeth, Queens, NY - Hours/Shift: 35 hours per week / To Be Determined - Full-Time - Experience Level: Experienced (Non-Manager) - Number of positions: 1 - Remote Work: May be eligible for remote work up to 2 days per week. - Residency Requirement: New hires must reside in NYC for the first two years of employment. Appointments are subject to OMB approval. - Loan Forgiveness: May be eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs.