Communications Officer

Position Summary

Under the direct supervision of the Central Dispatch Director and Deputy Director, the Communications Officer relays information from emergency callers to the proper resources (police, fire, and emergency medical responders). The officer manages 9-1-1 and cellular 9-1-1 telephone lines, Smart 9‑1‑1, and text 9‑1‑1, and monitors and dispatches 34 police, fire, and EMS agencies within St. Clair County. Responsibilities include collecting, storing, retrieving, and disseminating information essential to emergency service operations.

• Receive all incoming calls from the public requesting police, fire, and/or emergency medical assistance.
• Disseminate emergency information to first responders in a calm, collective manner.
• Gather, classify, and supplement pertinent information obtained from the caller, then enter it into the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system.
• Determine which response agency is responsible for responding to the call and dispatch the appropriate units.
• Provide emergency medical instructions as outlined in protocol while forwarding information to the dispatcher for appropriate services.
• Process incoming calls and accurately type simultaneously on the computer to relay all pertinent information to dispatch.
• Provide emergency assistance to callers until responding emergency units arrive and assume control of the situation.
• Operate a CAD console equipped with multiple computer terminals, including mapping and aerial photography.
• Monitor and control a large number of public safety resources throughout St. Clair County.
• Query and enter information (e.g., stolen articles, wanted persons, missing persons, criminal history checks) through Michigan’s Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
• Mitigate multiple situations simultaneously and maintain knowledge of location and availability of all field units.
• Monitor emergency radio frequencies of public agencies, including civil defense.
• Transmit information to police vehicles concerning wanted persons, stolen vehicles, hazardous street conditions, and other important information.
• Control operation of roadblocks and major emergency plans, and maintain related files.
• Maintain control of all calls received and transmissions made on radio and telephone.
• Maintain street locations, emergency phone numbers, patrol schedules, and other pertinent records.
• Instruct new personnel on the use of communication equipment.
• Train new dispatchers and assist dispatch supervisors in evaluating employee progress and performance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
• At least 1 year of experience in administrative support, customer service, emergency communications, or a fast‑paced multi‑discipline environment.
• Strong determination, humility, and diligence in daily operations.
• Ability to multitask using multiple computer programs, radio frequencies, and phone lines.
• Knowledge of local geography, waterways, and landmarks.
• Effective communication with management, co‑workers, and clients; ability to convey complex ideas clearly.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook) and general computer skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication, research, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with standard office equipment, document management, and record keeping.

• Reliable attendance.
• Reading, writing, and basic mathematics proficiency in English.
• Interpret and apply procedures, rules, and technical information accurately.
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes using good judgment.
• Maintain discretion with sensitive and confidential information.
• Work independently or as part of a team with appropriate interaction with county officials, employees, vendors, and the public.
• Adaptability to change in the work environment and manage competing demands.
• Provide customer and personal services, assess needs, and meet quality standards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs; proficiency may be tested.

• Complete a…