Fire Communications Operator - Fire Call taker​/Dispatcher; Fire Communications Operator

Fire Communications Operator

This is a full-time, safety-sensitive, represented position with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department. Following the conclusion of a formalized training program, this position is 24 hours on 72 hours off position (1 day on 3 days off).

This is specialized work in receiving and assisting with dispatch of messages in the fire communications center during an assigned shift.

Nature and variety of work involves responsibility for operating telephone, two-way radio, and related communications equipment and for performing related clerical tasks. These positions serve as call-takers and require fast, efficient, and accurate skills in the receiving and processing of calls and messages from and to fire and emergency vehicles and personnel. Work is performed independently within departmental and Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations, and is reviewed by superiors through observation, conferences, and reports.

Duties include shift work and employees are required to work holiday and weekends. Work is sedentary in nature and performed in a secured environment with specialized low lighting. Rest and meal periods are dependent on call volume and workload. Work requires reading from and monitoring computer screens for extended periods of time. Employees in this classification are designated essential employees and must report to work under all weather conditions.

Responsible for receiving calls for emergency and non-emergency service via E-911 or other communication devices and inputting incidents into the CAD system. Assists in dispatching Fire Department emergency equipment and personnel; maintains accurate account of the location of equipment; assists field personnel in locating streets and addresses; maintains radio dispatch records; answers incoming radio calls from field units. Notifies ambulances, road maintenance crews, signal lights crews, and Police Department using the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) when necessary.

Operates two-way radios, CAD equipment, teleprinter, and related communications equipment. Prepares and maintains necessary records and reports. Performs related work as required.

Knowledge of the geography of the County and the location of streets and main highways. Basic knowledge of police and fire functions and operations, relevant laws and statutes related to communications. Ability to receive information audibly and to distinguish, differentiate and respond to multiple audible stimuli from personnel or equipment, such as telephone, radio, or alarms. Ability to utilize maps and manual index of county intersections when necessary.

Ability to quickly learn the operation of computers, radios, CAD, and other communications equipment used in the telecommunications center. Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to convey verbal messages utilizing telecommunication devices with a well-modulated voice under emergency conditions. Ability to distinguish, differentiate, and respond to multiple visual stimuli such as printed documents, CRT displays, and indicator lights.

Ability to maintain records and perform miscellaneous routine clerical work. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees. Ability to work calmly and effectively in high stress situations.

Education:

Graduation from high school;

Experience:

One year of work experience in an emergency services environment OR progressively responsible multi-faceted clerical work; AND skill in data entry keyboard functions;
Conditions of Employment:
Successful completion of the Fire Communications Operator entry-level training program offered through the Fire Department Information Management Division; and certifications maintained in ETC/Priority Dispatch, EMD/Priority Dispatch, EFD/Priority Dispatch, EMD/MIEMSS, and CPR/AHA as conditions of continued employment.

Selection procedures:
Applicants will be required to take an aptitude test that measures audio interpretation, multitasking, keyboarding, and data entry accuracy skills. The Criti Call test is available online (remotely). The final selection process includes a comprehensive background investigation. This position is safety sensitive and employees in these positions are subject to Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS) and Alcohol testing.

Preference will be given to applicants with the following:
1) Fire dispatching experience with EMD/EFD current certification.
2) Fire service experience.
3) Dispatch experience in a public safety environment.
4) Willing to work a 24/72 (1 day on, 3 days off) schedule.