Public Safety

If you’re motivated to help people in emergencies, defend what matters, and create safer communities,
a career in public safety could be for you!

This field has a range of job types, so there is a place for many different skill sets and backgrounds.

Ashley Cooper, Watlow

Watlow is a local manufacturing employer with a range of job positions and a dedication to bettering the community. Watch this video to learn more about the career field and about Watlow.

Career Progression

Whether you begin with foundational training or demonstrate courage and commitment on the job,
a career in public safety offers clear opportunities for growth, advancement, and leadership
.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

Many public safety careers allow you to start with little or no prior experience.

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Community Service Aid

ADVANCING IN YOUR CAREER

Through academy training, certifications, and on-the-job learning, you can advance into specialized roles over time.

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Route Coordinator
Commercial Truck Driver
Transportation Manager
Fleet Operations Director
Heavy Equipment Operator
Supply Chain Coordinator
Inventory Control Analyst
Safety Trainer
Warehouse Manager

LEADING IN YOUR CAREER

In leadership roles, you guide teams, shape strategy, and ensure the safety and well-being of your community.

Salary range:
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Possible Job Positions:
Logistics Engineer
Warehouse Supervisor
Fleet Maintenance Manager
Distribution Center Manager
Global Supply Chain Director
Transportation Analyst
Dispatch Supervisor

What You Need to Succeed

Frequently asked questions about how to excel in a career in transportation and distribution

  • Manufacturing experience is preferred but not required for most manufacturing jobs.  On-the-job training for those with or without prior experience is usually provided.  Often apprenticeships are available to employees who want to move into more skilled positions.  Employees have the opportunity to shadow, be shadowed, and transition to working on their own.

  • Most entry-level manufacturing jobs do not require a degree, but those with technical certifications or diplomas are eligible for higher entry wages as well as preference for employment within the candidate pool.

  • If a candidate does not return the needed documents for employment consideration, there can be a delay in the hiring process. Job candidates are encouraged to complete things like background checks and drug-testing in a timely manner to prevent hiring delays.

  • Nothing precludes job candidates from applying for positions. However, a demonstrated inability to keep a consistent job will be heavily weighed when reviewing applications. It's also helpful if job candidates express a willingness to work overtime if needed. Employers value high-caliber, morally driven employees.

Your Path to
Getting Started

Click a path number for more information.

Discover whether a career in transportation and distribution might be a good fit for you. Click to read the article!

View Local Employers — We recommend applying on company sites instead of sites such as Indeed.com

Apprenticeships, Certificates, and Colleges/Technical Schools that could be helpful for career progression

Career Testimonials

Name, CEO of _
Started in food services and did not have a high school diploma

Employee, Calibration Technologies
Started out working in a pet supply store and is now the Kitting and Inventory Specialist at Calibration Technologies.

Rob Williams, Production Manager, Kraft-Heinz
Began as an Operator, progressed through mid-level roles, and advanced into supervisory and managerial leadership, ultimately serving as Production Manager.

Additional Career Resources

Job search and career success training videos

Online clearinghouse for career opportunities and how to overcome barriers to success

Explore job listings on employment sites