911 Dispatcher​/Communications Officer

job description

salary: $58,811 annually plus certificate incentive, longevity, employer paid life insurance, affordable benefits and an option for shift differential!

summary: the purpose of this position is to answer emergency 911 and non-emergency calls and coordinate the appropriate response; provide support to field officers and provide administrative support. This is accomplished by prioritizing incoming calls; simultaneously operating a multi-channel radio console and a multi-line telephone while maintaining a computer aided dispatch system among other computer systems.

• answers, evaluates and prioritizes incoming emergency calls; communicates effectively with various callers to obtain complete information to determine urgency and need for dispatching police, fire and/or medical response using a computer aided dispatch (cad) system, telephones, multi-channel radio, tdd (text telephone device for hearing/speech impaired), numerous computer databases and maps.
• receives, coordinates and disseminates critical information from various sources and maintains radio contact with field units to monitor response, progress and needed support.
• simultaneously maintains close contact with field units; communicates with department employees, other law enforcement and criminal justices agencies, emergency service providers and the general public to obtain and disseminate information; monitors radio traffic of other agencies.
• enters, updates, requests and transmits information from a variety of sources to maintain current, accurate records or to access databases for information, warrant checks and/or driver's license and vehicle registration checks.
• performs entries and inquiries in computer database related to warrants, protective orders, stolen guns and articles, vehicles, boats, vehicle/boat parts; monitors teletypes and broadcasts and disseminates appropriately; transmits warrant and other confirmations and responds to pick-up notices; and removes warrants and other entries from the database and maintains records of all warrants and other entries.
• makes effective decisions and uses problem solving based on a limited amount of information in crisis or emergency situations; obtains information related to possible dangers on the scene such as weapons, narcotics, mental conditions and alcohol; tracks changing locations and maintains contact with caller; sends additional units when needed.
• may assist with training and the training program for new hires.
• greets visitors in person in order to provide assistance or refer to the appropriate staff member or division.
• assists with attorney and clergy visitations.
• classifies and prioritizes calls to establish and coordinate the proper public safety response.
• performs detailed work with a high degree of accuracy during stressful situations.
• accurately understands various transmissions and transcribes information from one source to another in a timely manner.
• reads and interprets maps for the public, field personnel and other law enforcement/criminal justice agencies in order to assist in locating certain geographical areas; interprets telephone or radio call locations from maps by applying knowledge of the state highway system and geography in order to provide appropriate and timely assistance.
• greets visitors in person; provides assistance or refers to the appropriate staff member or division.
• provides back-up coverage for the department operator and monitors entrance ways to allow access to visitors.
• performs other duties as assigned.

this position has no supervisory or budget responsibility.

• knowledge of applicable state and federal rules, codes and regulations and county policies and procedures.
• ability to effectively operate a multi-channel radio, distinguishing and recognizing a variety of radio voice transmissions.
• ability to recognize and monitor communications equipment problems and notify appropriate personnel for repair.
• ability to memorize, retain and accurately recall information and codes; organize, assess, and prioritize multiple tasks, projects and demands; and adapt to constantly changing situations and effectively take appropriate action.
• ability to communicate in a clear, concise and effective manner, both verbally and in writing.
• ability to accurately understand various radio transmissions and transcribe information from one source to another in a timely manner.
• basic proficiency level utilizing microsoft office applications including excel, word and outlook; open fox; computer based 911system; windows based cad; rms; jms; eventide; instant messenger and the ability to operate other standard office equipment, including telephones, calculators, fax machines, etc.
• self-disciplined and self-motivated to work alone and with others; ability to exercise good judgment in safeguarding of confidential or sensitive information.
• ability to maintain emotional control and work effectively during…