Telecommunications Officer (TCO) @ Police Department​/Child Safety

Telecommunications Officer (TCO) @ Police Department/Child Safety

Location:

Houston, Texas

Primary

Purpose:

Possess a thorough understanding of police practices and procedures, both general and technical, in order to contribute to the efficient operation and safety of the police officers and the public.

• Education/Certification:
  • High school graduate or GED
  • Qualify for and obtain Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, or Masters Telecommunications Proficiency Certificate from TCOLE within twelve months
  • Able to pass a background check and psychological exam prior to receiving license
  • Able to be certified through TLETS II Basic-Telecommunications
  • Clearance from JIMM/SETCIC Harris County centralized records source
  • Earn certification issued by TCIC/NCIC
• Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Able to communicate effectively with police officers, district staff, and community
  • Able to write short reports and keep accurate records
  • Willing to work shift work including weekends and holidays
  • Able and willing to follow instructions
  • Able to stay calm in stressful situations
• Experience:
  • Three (3) to Five (5) years’ experience in student safety
  • CAD knowledge and basic computer skills required

• Maintain continuous radio contact with police and security officers and update CAD accordingly. Dispatch police personnel for intrusion or trespass, fire alarms, and emergency situations.
• Interpret and code data for transmission, transmit radio messages to field units, and dispatch police and security personnel and equipment.
• Relay information and messages to and from emergency sites, departments, outside agencies, and to all others requiring notification.
• Calm distressed citizens on the phone; evaluate, prioritize and sequence incoming information and determine units to send to an emergency.
• Notify other departments of needed support services pursuant to established procedures or instructions of supervisors.
• Monitor district/campus activity using video surveillance equipment and alarm systems to detect emergencies situations.
• Monitor computerized 9-1-1 system and emergency elevator phone lines.
• Identify and respond to developing situations alerting appropriate district staff, authorities, and emergency personnel according to established procedures.
• Coordinate with other enforcement agencies or departments to obtain additional help as needed.
• Notify maintenance personnel of after-hours systems alarms.
• Monitor the alarm system, public safety radio system, incoming phone calls, and campus radio system.
• Provide 24-hour answering service for the district.
• Run criminal checks for officer safety when required through TCIC/NCIC.

• Record details of calls, dispatches, and messages in accordance with district standards and federal, state, and local requirements.
• Input data into “Law Enforcement Automated Data Retrieval System” program.
• Compile, maintain and file all reports, records, and other documents as required.

• Maintain confidentiality of information.
• Make instantaneous judgment calls with accuracy and preciseness.
• Maintain 40 hours of continuing education to meet the standards set forth by TCOLE on a yearly basis.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Maintain an appropriate level of technology competence to meet the current and future needs of Alief.
• Implement alternative methods of instruction as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Evaluation: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluation of Manual Trades – Security Personnel.

Tools/Equipment Used: District vehicle, radio and telecommunication equipment or systems, video surveillance equipment, multiline telephone system, alarm system, and other security equipment, fire extinguisher, and standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing; occasional reaching, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Strenuous walking and climbing; repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; frequent driving

Lifting: Moderate lifting and carrying (15 - 44 pounds)

Environment: Work inside and outside (moderate exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather). Frequent district wide travel

Other: Specific hearing and visual requirements. May be subject to adverse and hazardous working conditions,

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; prolonged hours; possible on call 24 hours a day.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $43,567 to $60,440 Salaried