Information Technology Jobs in Edmonds, WA

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) Entry Level

NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES!

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations.

U.S. Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates' first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required.

DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America.

If you seek an exciting and rewarding job that provides excellent pay, exceptional federal benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move. U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is hiring immediately for these full-time, entry-level, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities.

Salary and Benefits

Annual Base Salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade, as follows:

GL-5/GL-7 $49,739 - $89,518 per year

Duty location impacts pay rates; locality pay for federal law enforcement is higher in some locations than others. A fully trained BPA may be eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GL-5, GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without reapplying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in each grade level.

Border Patrol Agents are eligible to select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health, dental and other insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) offering.

*Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102 ) will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location. Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ.

*Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $40,000 in additional incentives distributed over their first four years.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a BPA, you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. Being a BPA makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.

Typical assignments include:

• Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and custom laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations
• Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations
• Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband
• Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks
• Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission.

Qualifications

You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: One (1) year of general work experience that demonstrates the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations; to learn regulations, methods, and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction; and the ability to gather concise information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records; OR

Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; OR

Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of general work experience AND successfully completed college education. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.

You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: One year of specialized work experience that shows you have the skills necessary to:

• Make sound judgments and decisions in the use of firearms.
• Deal effectively with people in a courteous and tactful manner in connection with law enforcement matters.
• Analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions where you will be expected to make arrests after the completion of required training and apply these skills in a law enforcement capacity such as criminal code enforcement, determining violations of laws, correctional or rehabilitation work involving criminal offenders, security, military, etc.

The above experience will be applied in connection with the following: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants.

Education Substitution for the GL-7 grade level: A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (i.e., GPA of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0), or (3) honor society membership. Or will receive a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Or one full year of graduate-level education in a field of study related to law enforcement (e.g., criminal justice, homeland security, justice studies, law enforcement, courts and judicial systems, forensic technology, forensic psychology, or corrections and rehabilitation) from an accredited college or university; OR

A Combination of Experience and Education: This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.

Note: If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GL-9 and or GS-11 grade level. Please refer to the BPA GL-9 - 11 announcement.

Other Requirements

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position.

Residency: You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years.

Age Restriction: In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Border Patrol Agent position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03. The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).

Veterans' Preference: You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans' Preference eligible.

Formal Training: After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement and USBP-specific operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the Academy.

How to Apply:

Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, then complete the pre-screening questions.

You'll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.

If you have questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page: /s/usbp.

As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you'll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) Entry Level

NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES!

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations.

U.S. Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates' first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required.

DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America.

If you seek an exciting and rewarding job that provides excellent pay, exceptional federal benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move. U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is hiring immediately for these full-time, entry-level, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities.

Salary and Benefits

Annual Base Salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade, as follows:

GL-5/GL-7 $49,739 - $89,518 per year

Duty location impacts pay rates; locality pay for federal law enforcement is higher in some locations than others. A fully trained BPA may be eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GL-5, GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without reapplying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in each grade level.

Border Patrol Agents are eligible to select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health, dental and other insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) offering.

*Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102 ) will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location. Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ.

*Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $40,000 in additional incentives distributed over their first four years.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a BPA, you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. Being a BPA makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.

Typical assignments include:

• Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and custom laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations
• Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations
• Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband
• Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks
• Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission.

Qualifications

You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: One (1) year of general work experience that demonstrates the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations; to learn regulations, methods, and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction; and the ability to gather concise information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records; OR

Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; OR

Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of general work experience AND successfully completed college education. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.

You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: One year of specialized work experience that shows you have the skills necessary to:

• Make sound judgments and decisions in the use of firearms.
• Deal effectively with people in a courteous and tactful manner in connection with law enforcement matters.
• Analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions where you will be expected to make arrests after the completion of required training and apply these skills in a law enforcement capacity such as criminal code enforcement, determining violations of laws, correctional or rehabilitation work involving criminal offenders, security, military, etc.

The above experience will be applied in connection with the following: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants.

Education Substitution for the GL-7 grade level: A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (i.e., GPA of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0), or (3) honor society membership. Or will receive a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Or one full year of graduate-level education in a field of study related to law enforcement (e.g., criminal justice, homeland security, justice studies, law enforcement, courts and judicial systems, forensic technology, forensic psychology, or corrections and rehabilitation) from an accredited college or university; OR

A Combination of Experience and Education: This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.

Note: If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GL-9 and or GS-11 grade level. Please refer to the BPA GL-9 - 11 announcement.

Other Requirements

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position.

Residency: You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years.

Age Restriction: In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Border Patrol Agent position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03. The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).

Veterans' Preference: You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans' Preference eligible.

Formal Training: After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement and USBP-specific operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the Academy.

How to Apply:

Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, then complete the pre-screening questions.

You'll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.

If you have questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page: /s/usbp.

As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you'll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.

Edmonds, WA – Seeking Emergency Medicine Physicians

Join the Physician Partnership Where You Can Increase Your Impact

Vituity’s ownership model provides autonomy, local control, and a national system of support, so you can focus your attention where you want it to be – on your patients.

Join the Vituity Team. Vituity is a 100% physician-owned partnership and is led by frontline physicians that are all equitable owners. As an equal and valued partner from day one, our ownership model provides you with financial transparency, a comprehensive benefits package including profit distribution, and multiple career development opportunities. Our leadership understands what your practice needs to thrive and gives you autonomy and local control so you can provide care when, where, and how your patients need it. You are backed by a best-in-class corporate healthcare team and supported by the broad peer-level expertise of 6,000 Vituity clinicians. At Vituity we’ve cultivated an environment where passion thrives, and success comes through shared purpose. We were founded in a culture that values team accomplishments more than individual achievements, an approach we call “culture of brilliance.” Together, we leverage our strengths and experiences to make a positive impact in our local communities. We foster this through shared goals and helping our colleagues succeed, and we also understand the importance of recognition, taking the time to show appreciation and gratitude for a job well done.

Vituity Locations: Vituity has opportunities at 890 practices across the country, serving 14.5 million patients a year. With Vituity, if you ever need to move, you can take your job with you.

The Opportunity

• Seeking Board Eligible/Certified Emergency Medicine physicians.
• Current WA state license is a plus.
• Previous ED experience is required.
• The position is available for an immediate start.

The Practice

Swedish Edmonds Hospital – Edmonds, Washington

• Level IV Trauma Center, STEMI Receiving Center, and stroke center.
• 188-bed hospital and 28-bed Emergency Department.
• Sophisticated RME setup with 4 intake rooms, 7 treatment chairs and 2 procedure rooms; all rooms have capability to convert to full treatment rooms if needed.
• Annual volume of 51,000 with a 17% admit rate.
• Vituity scribes available and Vituity-staffed Urgent Care.

The Community

• Edmonds, Washington, is a charming coastal city that offers a unique blend of small-town charm, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture, making it a remarkable city.
• Located just north of Seattle, Edmonds boasts stunning views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and nearby Whidbey Island.
• The city's historic downtown is home to art galleries, local shops, and delicious restaurants, while Edmonds’ waterfront offers opportunities for boating, beachcombing, and enjoying beautiful sunsets.
• Residents enjoy a mild Pacific Northwest climate, with cool, rainy winters and pleasant summers ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring local parks.
• Edmonds is known for its excellent schools, strong sense of community, and easy access to Seattle, offering the perfect balance of peaceful suburban living and urban convenience.
• With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Edmonds is a truly special place to call home.

Benefits & Beyond*

Vituity cares about the whole you. With our comprehensive compensation and benefits package, we are mindful of what matters most, and support your needs of today and your plans for the future.

• Superior Health Plan Options
• Dental, Vision, HSA, life and AD&D coverage, and more
• Partnership models allows a K-1 status pay structure, allowing high tax deductions
• Extraordinary 401K Plan with high tax reduction and faster balance growth
• Eligible to receive an Annual Profit Distribution/yearly cash bonus
• EAP and travel assistance included
• Student loan refinancing discounts
• Purpose-driven culture focused on improving the lives of our patients, communities, and employees

We are unified around the common purpose of transforming healthcare to improve lives and we believe everyone has a role to play in that. When we work together across sites and specialties as an integrated healthcare team, we exceed the expectations of our patients and the hospitals and clinics we work in. If you are looking to make a difference, from clinical to corporate, Vituity is the place to do it. Come grow with us.

Vituity does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. Vituity is committed to complying with all applicable national, state and local laws pertaining to nondiscrimination and equal opportunity.

*Visa status applicants benefits vary. Please speak to a recruiter for more details.

Applicants only. No agencies please.

Job Description

At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.

Boeing Commercial Airlines is excited to offer opportunities for a Numerical Control Tape Laminator Operator to join our Fabrication team in Everett, Washington.

Join our innovative team as a Numerical Control Tape Laminator Operator, where you will independently operate and adjust advanced tape laminator machines, ensuring precise setups and adherence to established shop practices. Your attention to detail will guide you as you prepare materials, verify specifications, and utilize precision measuring instruments to achieve optimal results. You will play a key role in monitoring machine operations, troubleshooting any issues, and performing quality checks to ensure that every part meets stringent standards. Your commitment to safety and proper handling of hazardous materials will contribute to a secure and efficient work environment. If you are passionate about precision manufacturing and thrive in a fast-paced setting, we invite you to be a part of our mission to deliver exceptional aerospace solutions.

You will play a critical role in upholding our commitment to safety and quality standards, ensuring that all operations meet regulatory compliance and operational excellence. If you are detail-oriented, possess strong technical skills, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we invite you to apply and be a part of our mission to deliver excellence in aviation.

Position Responsibilities:

• Independently operate and adjust numerically controlled Tape Laminator machines according to established shop practices and procedures.

• Prepare for job setup by reviewing production orders, work orders (W/O), and setup documents, ensuring access to blueprints and drawings.

• Verify that the correct materials and tools are issued and free from visible defects before starting work.

• Identify the type of machine setup needed based on drawings and work orders, including flat tape laminating machines and automated fiber placement machines.

• Check machine setups and parts completed by previous operators to ensure safe working conditions and job progress.

• Prepare machines by obtaining materials from storage and performing necessary processes before operation, such as rolling tackifier and laying fiberglass.

• Use precision measuring instruments, such as dial indicators, to align and level the layup table as required.

• Retrieve and download CNC programs to the machine controller from the mainframe server.

• Set machine coordinates and adjust offsets, tool heights, and laser settings using the controller keyboard or pendant.

• Run the machine to lay graphite plies, copper ampe plies, and perform hand trimming and rework as necessary.

• Monitor machine operations for unusual vibrations or sounds, checking gauges and displays for warnings.

• Move finished parts and tools using appropriate material handling equipment as required.

• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with safety regulations and using personal protective equipment.

• Perform quality checks after each operation to ensure parts meet specifications and are free from defects.

• Maintain personal and tool certifications, consulting with team leaders and supervisors on process or job-related issues as needed.

Physical Demands and Potential Hazards:

• Perform physical tasks that include lifting weights ranging from 10-15 lbs to 15-35 lbs.

• Engage in various movements such as reaching, handling, turning, twisting, lifting, lowering, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, crouching, and squatting.

• Work in environments that may involve contact with metals, solvents, and coolants.

• Operate in proximity to moving parts and tools, sharp cutters, and potential slipping hazards.

• Adapt to varying noise levels and atmospheric conditions.

• Utilize personal safety gear to protect face/eyes, hands/arms, and feet while performing job duties.

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. “US Person” includes US Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Current Boeing employees working in Puget Sound must submit an Employee Request Transfer (ERT) to be considered in the eligible candidate pool. Resumes of current Puget Sound Boeing employees submitted via Careers at Boeing will not be considered.

Basic Qualifications:

• 1+ Years of experience using precision measuring tools.

• 1+ Years of experience with multi-axis Numerical Control (NC) machines.

• 1+ Years of experience obtaining and using information from drawings, documents, machine control data, to set up parts or material on pallets for machining operations.

• 1+ Years of experience working with blueprints, specifications, assembly drawings and standard operating procedures.

• Able to stand and walk throughout work shift (6+ hours) as well as carry and lift up to 25 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1+ Years of experience operating 3, 4, or 5 axis NC/CNC machine tools.

• Experience working with and around hazardous materials (while using the proper protective equipment).

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Typical Education & Experience:

High school graduate or GED preferred.

Relocation:

• Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position. Candidates must live in the immediate area or relocate at their own expense.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Union Representation Statement:

This is an hourly position governed by the International Association of Machinists (IAM-751) Collective Bargaining agreement.

Shift Work Statement:

• This position is for a variety of shifts.

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent.  Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.  

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.  

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay: $26.32/hour, with potential to earn up to $56.36/hour in accordance with the terms of the relevant collective bargaining agreement.

Applications for this position will be accepted until Mar. 22, 2026

Language Requirements

English Preferred

Relocation

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Shift

This position is for variable shift

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.