Communications Officer

CITY OF HENDERSON, KENTUCKY CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION

CLASSIFICATION

TITLE:

COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

PURPOSE OF CLASSIFICATION

The purpose of this classification is to communicate effectively while both receiving and disseminating information and instruction to, from, and between multiple agencies and the public by different means of radio, phone, and 9-1-1 technology for both emergency and non-emergency assistance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Performs multiple tasks simultaneously; examples of these tasks may include, but are not limited to:

• Answers emergency and non-emergency calls on a multi-line telephone system, quickly evaluating the response and priority needed utilizing the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) while dispatching the appropriate agency on a multi-channel radio console.

• Monitors a multi-channel radio console to maintain the status of all emergency personnel, logging radio traffic, and performing other requests as needed or requested by the emergency personnel.

• Provides pre-arrival instruction and emergency medical dispatch.

• Ensures proper location and validation of addressing within database, or transfers to appropriate agencies for out of jurisdiction emergency.

• Communicates effectively over all phones and radio channels.

• Makes notifications for various resources as requested during business hours and after hours utilizing on-call information.

• Notifies appropriate personnel for specific events according to policy/procedure.

• Maintains the ability to stay calm in a stressful working environment, which may include calming hysterical callers while working with multiple emergency situations at one time.

• Utilizes the language line as needed for language barriers with non-English speaking callers to determine the nature and type of problem.

• Enters/retrieves data into/from LINK/NCIC; modifies, locates, maintains, saves, and/or clears files and records within database.

• Performs NCIC criminal history checks as needed/requested from other agencies we serve; utilizes NCIC for inquiries on driver’s licenses, vehicle tags, stolen articles and property, guns, wanted and missing persons.

• Utilizes several computer-based programs as resources to assist emergency personnel.

• Maintains assorted logs as required.

• Performs ongoing administrative support for the Communications Center such as replenishing various forms, replenishing computer paper, replacing ink cartridges and paper, and shredding confidential material.

• Performs open records requests, as needed, or assigned.

• Maintains a clean work area with duties that include sweeping, wiping down console, and disposing of any unnecessary papers and other housekeeping items as assigned.

• Attends training as offered by the department or as required by law to maintain applicable certifications.

• Remains informed of departmental operations to promote improved job performance.

• Upon two years of service, the Communications Officer will assist with training new Communications Officers.

• Cooperates and maintains confidentiality with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and its officers or representatives when their activities or investigations are related to on-going investigations within the jurisdiction. This may include being subject to court subpoena for 9-1-1 call or CAD verification.

• Maintains regular and predictable in-person attendance during regular operation hours of the City of Henderson Emergency Communications Center is required.

• Must undergo and successfully complete drug test and alcohol screening prior to employment and undergo and successfully complete future drug test and/or alcohol screening pursuant to the City’s Drug and Alcohol policy.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

Communication Officers are expected to maintain a positive attitude and teamwork effort in the Communications Center. Communication Officers shall exhibit strong customer service skills not only with the public, but with our internal customers as well (i.e., other City employees and other agencies we…