Communications Officer​/Dispatcher

Summary: This position performs under the direct supervision of the Communications Supervisor, responds to emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatches needed services or directs call to appropriate individual.

The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbent(s) in this position. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties in this description and incumbent(s) may be required to perform position-related tasks other than those specifically listed in this description.

• Answers emergency and non-emergency telephone lines at the Police Station.
• Gathers information from callers including nature, severity, location and status of emergencies.
• Assesses need for response and dispatches services accordingly.
• Assists Police Officers and Fire/EMS Personnel by relaying information regarding calls for service.
• Documents and corrects 911 location premise errors in CAD (Computer Assisted Dispatch).
• Enters data and maintains CAD for alarm permits and cautionary information in alert files.
• Notifies appropriate entities related to problems or complaints under their jurisdiction.
• Answers Police Department administrative telephones and directs calls to requested or appropriate individual or department.
• Enters, maintains, updates and researches information into TCIC/NCIC (Texas Criminal Information Center and National Criminal Information Center) and TLETS/NLETS (Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System/National Law Enforcement Telecommunication System) databases.
• Tests telephone and computer dispatch equipment at beginning of shift.
• Researches and responds to inquiries from other law enforcement agencies and departments.
• Completes data entry of police records and citations.
• Must be able to work any shift, as needed, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to meet the needs of the Department, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Monitors several police, fire, and City’s radio as required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential.

• Knowledge of police emergency response practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of TCIC/NCIC and TLETS/NLETS rules, regulations, and requirements.
• Knowledge of methods, practices and procedures for responding to and dispatching emergency services utilizing computer aided dispatch system.
• Knowledge of computers and related equipment, hardware and software for researching, retrieving, and maintaining a variety of informational and tracking databases.
• Knowledge of Town policies and procedures.
• Skill in effective oral and written communications.
• Skill in responding effectively and appropriately to emergency calls for assistance.
• Skill in accessing and maintaining multiple police databases simultaneously.
• Skill in resolving customer complaints and concerns.

• High School Diploma or G.E.D., and two (2) years data entry or customer service representative experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must obtain Texas Law Enforcement Dispatch Certification within six (6) months from date of employment. Preference may be given to applicants with current certifications.
• Use of TLETS to include TCIC/NCIC, as well as meet CJIS requirements.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening, psychological test, and pass background investigation and MVR check. The hiring process will also include a series of interviews, which must be successfully completed.
• 1-2 years of experience is preferred.
• May be required to possess State of Texas Drivers License.