Our Commissions
The department also supports two independent civil service commissions, which help safeguard the integrity of hiring and disciplinary processes. These commissions conduct their work in open public meetings. For information about commission meetings, decisions, and appeal procedures, please visit each commission’s website.
Public Safety Civil Service Commission (PSCSC)
The PSCSC hears employee appeals, conducts entry-level and promotional exams, conducts investigations of political pressure in hiring and oversees other aspects of employment for public safety employees. The PSCSC has jurisdiction over nearly 2,000 employees in the police officer and fire fighter ranks. Email: PublicSafety@seattle.gov
Civil Service Commission (CSC)
The CSC hears employee appeals and investigations of political pressure in hiring. The CSC has jurisdiction over almost 8,000 civil service positions and includes employees in almost every City department. Email: CivilService@seattle.gov
Civil Service Rights
Employees covered by civil service have the right to:
- Open and competitive hiring processes, and freedom from coercion in hiring
- Limited probationary periods
- Just cause and due process for serious disciplinary actions including termination
- Appeal higher levels of discipline and alleged policy violations
- Continued employment (with limited exceptions)
Independent Oversight
The Civil Service Department operates independently of City elected officials, as its own branch of Seattle government. Each commission is comprised of one commissioner appointed by the Mayor and one commissioner appointed by City Council; the third commissioner is elected by vote of each system’s employee members. Commissioners serve three-year terms. There is one Executive Director, who is appointed jointly by the commissions.