Public Safety Emergency Communications Specialist, Grade 15

Position Overview

This continuous announcement allows your application to remain active and considered for both current and future vacancies. The starting salary is $55,517.00 (Grade 15). In addition, a $5,000 hiring bonus is distributed over the first year and the employee is eligible for the Employee Retirement System (ERS) Defined Benefit Plan. The position is filled at the Public Safety Emergency Communications Specialist I level.

The Communications Specialist is responsible for delivering quality emergency communication services to the public and providing accurate and timely dispatch support to police officers and fire rescue personnel. Major duties include answering 9‑1‑1 emergency calls and dispatching police officers and fire rescue personnel using the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. All personnel in this class of work must work on site and are not eligible for telework or remote work assignments.

Experience:

None required.

Education:

Proof of high school graduation or equivalent. License/

Certifications:

Upon completion of the probationary period, possession and maintenance of CPR certification;
Law Enforcement Dispatch, Fire Dispatch, and Emergency Medical Dispatch Protocol System certifications;
State of Maryland Emergency Medical Dispatch license; METERS/NCIC certification.

• Pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the MCPD (8‑week process).
• Pass a computerized examination, a scored interview, a psychological evaluation, a medical examination, and a drug/alcohol screen.
• Perform work assignments at different work locations when required.
• Work holidays, weekends and shifts during days, evenings or midnights.
• Accept last‑minute changes in schedule and work mandatory overtime.
• Work under close supervision and daily performance evaluation.
• Demonstrate good customer service skills and the ability to remain calm and respectful when dealing with irate or angry customers over the phone.
• Work under constant electronic surveillance as all telephone conversations and radio messages are recorded.
• Receive and compile reports and complaints from citizens, ECC‑911 staff, police patrol officers, other specialists, and other callers via telephone, radio or mail.

Employees will receive proficiency advancements to higher grades with specified experience and salary increases according to the Public Safety Emergency Communications Specialist career ladder.