Deschutes County

From an office chair to landfill frontlines. Two years ago, Rachel Swift traded her remote desk job for steel-toed boots. Swift is a lead site attendant at Deschutes County Solid Waste. It was a leap from medical office work, but for Swift, it was exactly what she needed. "I love being on my feet," she says, reflecting on the transition. "Sitting behind a desk all day was exhausting. I just needed to move around." Now, Swift is the first face people see as they drive into a landfill or transfer station in Deschutes County. She helps the public figure out what they can and can’t bring, ensuring the right materials end up in the right place. "The public isn't as knowledgeable as we’d like," Swift admits. "Sometimes people just throw everything in the garbage. Then there are those who separate everything perfectly—scrap metal here, co-mingle there, and trash over there. It’s like there’s no middle ground!" The variety of personalities she encounters adds to the daily adventure. "It’s nonstop entertainment!" Swift chuckles. Whether it's frazzled drivers unsure of how to back up their trailers or nervous visitors overwhelmed by the machinery, Swift’s approach is calm and welcoming. "I try to make it not a scary place. Some people are really nervous, and I just reassure them, 'I’m right here, I’ve got you.'" Before landing this job, Swift had never worked in a similar environment and admits it made her nervous at first. "I was worried about how I’d fit in, but from day one, the guys here welcomed me. I was just another part of the team," she shares with a smile. "I’m so grateful for this job." But it’s not all about trash and trucks for Swift. Outside of work, she’s an avid hiker and mother to three teenage boys, always eager to stay active. "I just want to be outside, do all the things, and see all the things.” Known for her outgoing personality, Swift is quick to crack a joke or break into dance—anything to make her coworkers and the public smile. "I like to make people happy," she says simply. "Life’s too short not to enjoy it." Swift, who is also a dog lover, especially enjoys seeing customers bring their furry friends to the landfill. “I love seeing the dogs people bring in—it always makes my day brighter,” she adds with a grin. For Swift, the landfill isn’t just a job—it’s a place of learning and connection. And as she stands on the frontlines, she’s shaping a more sustainable future, one load of trash at a time.

Congratulations to Melinda Campbell and Toby Cundell for 20 years of outstanding service in the Information Technology Department at Deschutes County! Last week, Melinda and Toby were recognized by the Board of County Commissioners for their dedication and contributions over the past two decades. Both serve as Application System Analysts, ensuring our systems run smoothly and effectively. They were also joined in the photo by many of their I.T. teammates. Thank you, Melinda and Toby, for all that you do!

Last week, two of our outstanding Deschutes County 9-1-1 team members were recognized for their incredible work at the Oregon APCO NENA Awards Banquet. Chad Hicks won Trainer of the Year! Chad has been a part of Deschutes County 9-1-1 for over thirteen years and has been a crucial member of our training team since 2018. His dedication, expertise, and commitment to the growth and success of his trainees make him an invaluable asset to our team. One trainee shared, “Chad is great at breaking things down and simplifying them.” Additionally, Will McAlister received a Lifesaving Award for his role in helping save a young child’s life. We want to recognize his quick thinking and calm demeanor in a challenging situation. Will’s exceptional ability to connect with the caller and guide them made all the difference. Congratulations to Chad and Will! Your efforts truly make a difference in public safety, and we are fortunate to have both of you on our team. #911Strong #TrainerOfTheYear #LifesavingAward #ProudTeamMoment #OregonAPCONENA

We’re thrilled to announce that Andrea Abramson, Community Justice Officer, has been selected as one of the 2024 Juvenile Justice Professionals of the Year, representing Central and Eastern Oregon. This well-deserved recognition highlights Andrea’s dedication and incredible work over the past 30 years at Deschutes County's Juvenile Department. Her compassion, leadership, and unwavering support for youth and families have made a lasting impact in our community. The award was presented at the OJDDA Conference in Seaside on Monday, Sept. 16. She was joined by Deputy Director, Sonya Littledeer-Evans. Please join us in congratulating Andrea!

Such a bittersweet day for me. I am excited to start my new adventure with Bend Park & Recreation District but saying goodbye to the amazing folks at Deschutes County was tough. Thank you for 10 fabulous years!

We want to take a moment to thank Human Resources Director Kathleen Hinman for her incredible service and dedication to Deschutes County over the past 10 years. Throughout her time with us, Kathleen has led countless initiatives and supported our employees and departments with every step. As Kathleen embarks on her next adventure with Bend Park & Recreation District, we wish her all the best and we're excited to see all she accomplishes in this new chapter.

Are you looking for a new opportunity where your work truly makes a difference? Deschutes County is hiring for multiple positions. We want YOU to be a part of our amazing team! Visit deschutes.org/jobs for more information and to apply today! #DeschutesCountyJobs #CentralOregon #WorkWithPurpose #JoinOurTeam

🛠️ Happy Labor Day! 🛠️ Are you looking for a new opportunity where your work truly makes a difference? On this Labor Day, we want to remind you Deschutes County is hiring for multiple positions. We want YOU to be a part of our amazing team! Visit deschutes.org/jobs for more information and to apply today! We know where you choose to live, work, and play matters. As one of the largest employers in Central Oregon and the largest municipal government in the region, we’re committed to making Deschutes County a great place to call home. Join us and be part of something bigger! #LaborDay #DeschutesCountyJobs #CentralOregon #WorkWithPurpose #JoinOurTeam

Deschutes County is currently recruiting for a Property Appraiser I or II. This employee will perform straightforward or standardized appraisals of real property to establish a fair and accurate value upon which taxes will be assessed. Positions may choose to work a flex schedule during parts of the year. If you would like more information or to apply, please visit deschutes.org/jobs.

Deschutes County is currently recruiting for a Building Safety Inspector II or III. This position is for an A level Electrical Inspector, or an A level Plumbing Inspector or a Commercial Fire & Life Safety Plans Examiner. The Commercial FLS Plans Examiner will examine and approve building construction plans and specifications for proposed construction projects, and make determinations for compliance to applicable codes. This position works within a scope of thorough knowledge in structural, mechanical, plumbing and/or electrical aspects, combined with a working knowledge of residential and commercial construction. If you would like more information or to apply, please visit deschutes.org/jobs.