Listing Summary

Job Summary: This position operates a two-way radio and other communications equipment to receive and transmit public safety calls.  The position also dispatches the appropriate public safety entity. 

 

Major Duties:

• Receives, interprets, classifies, prioritizes and responds to calls of a routine and emergency nature by E-911 system, telephone or radio for Fire Department, E.M.S., Law Enforcement and other entities as required, expeditiously and accurately;
• Performs routine clerical work in processing, entering, and retrieving information from police/fire records and reports and GCIC/NCIC;
• Determines by inquiry the exact location of place or point of emergency and dispatches the proper personnel; transmits such messages necessary in conducting operations;
• Tracks status and availability of emergency service units;
• Enters information into GCIC/NCIC to obtain confidential records;
• Keeps necessary records regarding calls and complaints, communications, and/or E-911 operations;
• Compiles data from records kept into various daily, monthly, or other periodic reports;
• Maintains communications records and files;
• Assists the public with transactions and information relating to police and fire activity and city services;
• Inquires about and enters data of a restricted and confidential nature into the computer;
• Dispatches medical emergencies and provides pre-arrival instructions;
• Provides information to units in areas such as warrants, vehicles, driver’s licenses and criminal history;
• Operates a multiple computer system utilizing various programs simultaneously;
• Trains new employees in the dispatch function and evaluates and reports progress of trainee to supervisor;
• Performs other related duties as required.

 

Knowledge Required by the Position:

• Knowledge of federal and state regulations governing transmission by radio;
• Knowledge of the methods of operating communication systems;
• Knowledge of geography and the road system throughout the city;
• Skill in determining the scope and magnitude of an emergency;
• Skill in the use of modern office equipment including computers, fax machines and Xerox machines;
• Ability to handle multiple situations at one time;
• Ability to reason clearly, analyze situations accurately, and adopt effective courses of action;
• Ability to remain calm and communicate precisely and clearly in emergency situations;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making decisions;
• Ability to deploy emergency equipment within specific guidelines;
• Ability to follow rules and procedures regarding police records and files;
• Ability to document facts accurately, legibly and completely, under adverse conditions.
• Ability to assist less experienced personnel with safety rules and regulations;
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships at work;
• Ability to understand and carry out directions.

 

Supervisory Controls:  Work is assigned by Communications Supervisor in terms of departmental goals and objectives.  Work is performed under direct supervision.

                       

Job Title:     Communications Operator (continued)

 

Guidelines:  Guidelines include the department Policy and Procedure book and relevant state and federal laws pertaining to emergency management; Basic Communications Officer Training; GEMA/POST Council guidelines.

 

Complexity:  The work consists of a variety of computer-aided dispatching and record keeping duties.

 

Scope and Effect: The purpose of this position is to process 911 emergency calls for Fire-EMS and Law Enforcement and to operate a two-way radio to communicate with appropriate public safety officials in emergency situations. 

 

Personal Contacts: Contacts are typically accessed with co-workers, public safety officials and the general public.

 

Purpose of Contacts: Contacts are typically to give and exchange information, to resolve problems, and to provide services.

 

Physical Demands: The work is typically performed with the employee sitting at a desk.  The employee uses tools or equipment requiring dexterity.

 

Work Environment:  The work is typically performed in an office.

 

Supervisory and Management Responsibility:  None. 

 

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent; two (2) years of related experience preferred; GCIC and EMD certified or ability to become certified within one (1) year; equivalent combination of education and experience.