Communications Operator Certified

Under direct supervision, performs radio and communications work in the Suffolk Police Department’s Emergency Communications Center on an assigned 12‑hour shift. Answers emergency 911 and non‑emergency calls; dispatches appropriate emergency personnel and equipment to public safety situations. Must exercise tact and firmness in obtaining information from distressed persons and exercise independent judgment and initiative when responding to emergencies.

• Operate multi‑line telephone system and telecommunication device for the deaf and hearing impaired (TDD) to receive, screen, and process incoming calls.
• Respond calmly and tactfully to callers on emergency 911 and non‑emergency lines, obtaining complete and accurate information for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
• Operate radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control; monitor status and location of field units; relay messages using FCC‑compliant radio terminology.
• Notify other agencies as needed for Police, Fire, and EMS emergencies.
• Utilize Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) cards or software to ask vital questions and provide pre‑arrival instructions.
• Operate a computer terminal linked to the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center to obtain driver history, vehicle registration, criminal record, and stolen property information.
• Monitor security alarms for businesses, court, schools, etc.
• Facilitate language interpretation between non‑English callers and interpreters.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; speak clearly and precisely over the telephone and radio.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with employees, supervisors, and representatives from other departments and organizations.
• Perform various clerical duties as necessary.

• Conviction of any felony, domestic violence, or Class 1 or 2 misdemeanor (excluding traffic violations) within the last five years.
• Any conviction involving the sale or distribution of illegal drugs.
• Embezzlement or misappropriation of funds from a former employer.
• Found child/elder abuse or neglect case.
• Illegal possession of a scheduled I or II drug or anabolic steroids within the last five years.
• Illegal use of any hallucinogenic drug within the last five years.

• Four or more negative points on a Virginia Operator’s license.
• Conviction of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within the past five years.
• Elusive police within the past five years.
• Leaving the scene of an accident within the past two years.
• Multiple DUI convictions.
• No valid driver’s license or inability to obtain one.
• Refusal to take a blood or breath test related to suspected DUI/DUID within the past five years.
• Suspension or revocation of license or conviction of reckless driving within the last twelve months.

• Two or more bankruptcies.
• Dishonorable discharge or any discharge other than honorable from the military.
• Cheating on any examination or testing related to this position.
• Crimes of moral turpitude.
• Ineligibility to possess a firearm in Virginia.
• Intentional omission or lying on the application/background process.
• Visible tattoos, brands, piercings, or intentional scarifications on the face, head, or front half of the neck; offensive tattoos are prohibited (full tattoo sleeves are allowed).

• Graduation from high school or GED.
• Basic Dispatcher State certification.
• Current or prior certification in VCIN/NCIC.
• Proof of Emergency Medical Dispatch training completion and current CPR certification.
• At least two years of experience in public safety dispatching.
• At least two of the following certifications preferred: DCJS General Instructor, DCJS Specialty Instructor, Crisis Intervention Team Certification, Communications Training Operator, or other skills deemed appropriate.
• For Certified Communications Operators: salary determination based on 50% credit for years of dispatch experience.

Salary starting from $55,368. Signing bonus of $4,000 for experienced dispatchers upon successful completion of training and certification requirements.

Must complete a medical, audio, psychological evaluation and pre‑employment substance abuse test with satisfactory results.

The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

City of Suffolk is a proud participant of the Virginia Values Veterans Program and welcomes Veterans to apply.