Lateral Communications Operator

The La Habra Police Department is seeking a highly motivated, customer service-oriented and dedicated individual to serve as a Lateral Communications Operator.

This position requires a typing certificate with a passing score of 40 NWPM.

** Applications without a valid typing certificate will NOT be considered.**

For typing certificate requirements, please click HERE.

ONLY THOSE CANDIDATES MEETING “LATERAL REQUIREMENTS” WILL CONTINUE IN THE SELECTION PROCESS.

ABOUT THE POSITION
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Under general supervision of the Communications Supervisor, the Lateral Communications Operator receives and transmits emergency and non-emergency calls from the public requesting police and other emergency services; maintains contact with all units on assignment; documents calls for service on a computer aided dispatch system; and provides general information to the public.

This position is assigned to the Police Communications Center, which is a 24-hour, seven days per week operation, requiring shift coverage. Communications Operators must work assigned shifts and must be proficient at multi-tasking. There is a high expectation placed on the accuracy and speed of information gathering and the maturity in decision making.

(The following duties represent the principal job duties; however, they are not all inclusive.)

• Receives calls, complaints, and inquiries from the public for police or other emergency services over the phone.
• Screens incoming calls to determine priority resources and types of response required in accordance with established procedures.
• Simultaneously receives, responds and documents information from multiple sources while maintaining accuracy in order to relay information to responding personnel.
• Proficiently handles multiple tasks and events simultaneously.
• Communicates clearly, concisely, and possesses effective listening skills.
• Responsibly relays confidential information with accuracy back to the field personnel.
• Performs general clerical work in support of communication activities.
• Conducts various data entry functions as directed by supervision.
• Maintains contact with other cities or agencies for cooperative emergency operations.
• Works holidays, weekends, day, night, and graveyard shifts as assigned and required.
• Performs related duties as required.

QUALIFYING KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices and procedures involved in public safety communications work.
• Geography of the City and the location of streets and important buildings.
• Operation of radio/telephone receiving and transmitting equipment.

Skill and Ability to:

• Accurately record and retain data given orally.
• Communicate effectively orally in highly stressful situations.
• Speak clearly and precisely.
• Accurately read and interpret maps.
• Handle simultaneous calls.
• Listen and comprehend radio calls while talking on the phone.
• Exercise good judgment and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
• Effectively communicate with and elicit information from upset and irate citizens.
• Exercise independent judgment.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships.
• Type accurately at a moderate speed.
• Train others in the use of communication equipment.
• Ability to pass a thorough background investigation and polygraph.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education and experience that would provide the qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position. A High School diploma or equivalent is required. One year of experience performing typing and clerical duties, demonstrated ability to function under stress, and the ability to handle several tasks simultaneously. Must be able to type 40 net words per minute (a typing certificate is required).

LATERAL REQUIREMENTS:

Successful completion of probation with a California public safety agency and minimum one (1) year of operational experience in public safety performing duties as a Communications Operator. Must be able to obtain a POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate or complete the California Commission on Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (POST) Public Safety Dispatcher course within one year of appointment.

LICENSE REQUIREMENT:

Must…