Telecommunicator

Performs the radio dispatching and clerical work necessary to support police officers, firefighters/paramedics and other emergency personnel. Work involves receiving non-emergency and emergency incoming calls, dispatching applicable personnel, and operating a computer terminal connected to the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC), National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and a variety of local, regional, and/or state emergency response databases. Work involves preparing and maintaining records and files.

Employee works varying shift assignments and is responsible for being on call during emergencies.

• Accurately receives/dispatches calls for police, fire, emergency aid/ambulance, animal control, and on-call city workers;
• Maintains a computer log of complaints and services requested; maintains knowledge of location and activities of various emergency response personnel;
• Receives and provides home, business, fire and medical alarms to law enforcement officials, firefighters and medics as requested; notifies key holders of activation of alarms;
• Monitors and operates TDD/TTY to communicate with hearing impaired callers and Language Line for callers that may need an interpreter;
• Maintains logs of vehicle repossession and wrecker rotations;
• Maintains paperwork related to the booking and release of prisoners;
• Maintains computer database;
• Works cooperatively with other agencies;
• Promotes positive public relations;
• Adhere to all City policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook, in particular:
• Attendance Policy
• All Safety Policies and Procedures
• Appropriate business casual attire for office personnel and proper uniform attire for those departments that are so designated (Police, Fire, and Public Works Departments);
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Answers telephone and receives inquiries, providing information based on general knowledge of City programs and activities, or refers callers to appropriate personnel, as necessary; routes messages or pages off-duty officers.
• Monitors office equipment & dispatch office, coordinates report of equipment with the Administrative Services Lieutenant.
• Assists with the training of new telecommunicators.

• High School diploma or GED
• Ability to obtain Basic License as a Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications Operator within 12 months of employment as a Telecommunicator. Certification pay is paid to those who hold an Intermediate, Advance or Master License.
• Ability to obtain Certification as a Notary Public from the Texas Secretary of State’s Office within 12 months of employment.
• Knowledge of the geographical layout of the County, including political subdivisions, location of streets, important buildings and other landmarks.
• Familiar with the operation of two-way radio equipment and related Federal Communication Commission regulations.
• Awareness of the operation and location of law enforcement and emergency service units.
• Skill in the operation of emergency communications equipment and computer systems and databases utilized by the Department.
• Proficiency in the use of common office machines including computerized data entry equipment.
• Ability to elicit information necessary for proper dispatching from persons who may be distressed.
• Competence in the exercise sound judgment in emergencies
• Capability to speak clearly, distinctly, and politely.
• Exercise tact and diplomacy in all transactions and conversations with external and internal customers.
• Maintain clear, effective records and reports.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.

Essential:
Employees with specific responsibilities that remain in the City on the job alternatively, at a designated location during an emergency.