Telecommunicator III

Candidates must be actively working as a Public Safety Answering Point Telecommunicator (dispatcher) to be considered. If you are not currently working as a dispatcher, we encourage you to apply for the Pottawattamie County Telecommunicator I (calltaker) position.

A 911 Telecommunicator III works directly with the public, law enforcement, fire departments, and various other public safety agencies to provide both emergency and non‑emergency responses to incidents within our County. The role includes operating all radio consoles and ancillary equipment, dispatching law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services personnel in adherence with established policies and procedures, tracking and documenting current status of personnel and equipment, operating the NCIC/I.O.W.A. systems terminal, receiving incoming emergency and non‑emergency calls via telephone, text, video, or data feeds, and communicating effectively and empathetically with callers in crisis.

• Operate all radio consoles and ancillary equipment providing appropriate command, control and support information to public safety responders.
• Dispatch law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services personnel in adherence with established policies and procedures.
• Track and document current status of personnel and equipment dispatched.
• Operate the NCIC/I.O.W.A. systems terminal, providing support to authorized public safety personnel and agencies in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
• Receive incoming emergency and non‑emergency calls via telephone, text, video, or data feeds using established protocols and technology.
• Communicate effectively and empathetically with callers in crisis, providing pre‑arrival and post‑dispatch instructions (CPR, active shooter, medical emergencies) while maintaining composure under pressure.
• Interpret and verify caller location and incident data using mapping software, GIS tools, and automated location systems to ensure precise response coordination.
• Manage multiple incidents simultaneously, demonstrating strong critical thinking, prioritization, and decision‑making skills in high‑stress situations.
• Document incident details accurately and efficiently while maintaining situational awareness and ensuring responder safety.
• Utilize specialized communication resources, including TDD/relay services, language interpretation, and text‑to‑911, to assist callers with disabilities or language barriers.

• Must be a current PSAP Telecommunicator.
• At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and authorization to work in the U.S. (citizen or legal resident).
• Currently employed as a Public Safety Answering Point Telecommunicator; if not, applying for the Telecommunicator I (calltaker) position is encouraged.
• Proficiency in English, with the ability to read, write, and speak the language proficiently and communicate clearly.
• Strong critical thinking, prioritization, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication skills when dealing with the public, including those frightened, incoherent, or hostile.
• Fast and accurate data entry while managing frequent interruptions.
• Proficient with Windows‑based and other software applications, telecommunications equipment, GIS tools, and automated location systems.
• Ability to quickly learn, retain, and apply policies, procedures, laws, ordinances, regulations, and geographical data related to public safety call‑taking.
• Willing and able to work rotating 12‑hour shifts (0600‑1800 or 1800‑0600) including nights, weekends, holidays, and in inclement weather or emergency call‑backs; regular, reliable, and punctual attendance required.
• Ability to pass a drug screening and background investigation that meets all local, state, and federal requirements (no felony or serious/aggravated misdemeanor convictions).

NOTE:

Years of experience will be considered upon hire, so the listed starting pay may not reflect actual starting pay.

• Completion of I.L.E.A. 40‑hour or equivalent Basic Telecommunicator course provided by agency.
• CPR – attained through on‑the‑job training.
• NCIC/I.O.W.A.…