Public Safety Telecommunicator

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

Performs emergency and non‑emergency call‑taking and radio dispatch functions in a 24‑hour public safety communications center. Uses a computer‑aided dispatch (CAD) system and multiple communication technologies to gather, prioritize, document, and relay critical information to Police and Fire personnel in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Meeting deadlines is an essential part of the selection process. Failure to meet specified deadlines may result in disqualification from consideration for this position.

MISSION

To always be respectful while keeping our community safe.

VISION

To be the most respected police department.

CORE VALUE

Respect. Demonstrated through our compassionate and honest service.

CITY VALUES & EXPECTATIONS

• Models and contributes to a positive work environment, culture of communication, engagement and safety.
• Embraces the City’s shared values and contributes towards accomplishing the City’s vision and goals by being creative, innovative, continuously learning, and communicating clearly.
• Communicates effectively and respectfully with employees and the general public, including but not limited to those of diverse racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Works cooperatively as a member of a team; develops and maintains effective working relationships with diverse coworkers and community members; consistently brings a high level of self‑awareness and empathy to all personal interactions.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Answer, evaluate, prioritize, and process emergency and non‑emergency calls for service.
• Assign appropriate emergency responder accurately and efficiently while emphasizing responder safety.
• Triage incidents, determine appropriate response, and dispatch Police, Fire, and other emergency personnel.
• Monitor the status and location of emergency responders using radio, CAD, and other technology.
• Provide clear, concise, and professional radio communications using appropriate terminology, codes, and procedures.
• Exercise call control, sound judgment, and empathy when interacting with callers, including those who are panicked, emotional, hostile, or confused.
• Provide pre‑arrival and post‑dispatch instructions in high‑stress situations, including TCPR, active threat incidents, and rescues.
• Coordinate language interpretation services and mental health or crisis resources when appropriate.
• Accurately document incident information, categorize calls for service, and update records in a timely manner.
• Relay critical information to responding personnel and assume initial incident coordination until responders arrive.
• Conduct responder safety checks and monitor incidents to support on‑scene safety.
• Monitor closed‑circuit television systems as assigned.
• Maintain composure and effectiveness in high‑stress, fast‑paced, and noisy environments.
• Comply with all agency policies, procedures, confidentiality requirements, and applicable state and federal laws.
• Complete required training, certifications and continuing education.
• Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, mandatory holdovers, and call‑backs as needed.
• Perform data entry, information retrieval, and other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Knowledge of city geography, streets, addressing, and landmarks (or ability to learn quickly).
• Knowledge of public safety communications procedures, laws, and regulations (to be attained during probationary period).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to relay information clearly and accurately.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Ability to obtain and process information from difficult, emotional, or uncooperative callers.
• Proficiency with computers, CAD systems, and specialized public safety software.
• Ability to read and interpret maps and spatial data quickly and accurately.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, reliability, and confidentiality.
• Emotional resilience, stress tolerance, and adaptability in high‑risk and high‑stress situations.

MINIMUM…