Communications Operator - New

New Dispatcher

Signing bonus of $2,500 to each new dispatcher upon successful completion of initial emergency communications training and emergency medical dispatch training.

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 for service. Dispatches appropriate emergency personnel (i.e., Police, Fire, EMS, Animal Control, Public Works, Virginia Highway Department, etc.) and equipment to public safety situations. Employee must exercise considerable tact and firmness in obtaining information from distressed persons.

Employee must exercise independent judgment and initiative in receiving messages, responding to emergency situations, and dispatching calls. Reports to the Communications Lead Operator (Supervisor).

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Operates multi-line telephone system and telecommunication device for the deaf and hearing impaired (TDD) to receive, answer, screen, and process incoming calls for service. Responds calmly and tactfully to callers on Emergency 911 and non-emergency lines to obtain complete and accurate information for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Prioritizes calls for appropriate response. Operates radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control to calls for service.

Monitors the status and location of field units. Relays messages and information to emergency response personnel using appropriate radio terminology, while adhering to the applicable Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations. Records transmitted information into CAD, as appropriate. Notifies other agencies needed to assist Police, Fire and EMS in emergencies. Utilizes Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) cards or software to ask vital questions and provide pre-arrival instructions as needed.

Operates a computer terminal connected with the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center to obtain such information as driver's history, vehicle registration data, criminal record information, stolen property information, etc., as necessary. Monitors security alarms for businesses, court, schools, etc. Facilitates language interpretation between non-English speaking callers and interpreters to provide assistance needed. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to speak clearly and precisely over the telephone and radio. Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with employees, supervisors, and representatives from other departments and organizations. Performs various clerical duties, as necessary. Performs other related duties as required.

For Communications Operator (New Dispatcher):
Graduation from high school or GED and some experience in clerical or communications work; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Must obtain bi-annual CPR re-certification. Must obtain Emergency Medical Dispatch Training. Must hold or have the ability to acquire the Basic Dispatcher State Certification. Ability to obtain State certification for VCIN/NCIC. Starting Salary: $54,017.

Disqualifications:
Automatic Disqualifying Factors for Sworn & Non-Sworn Applicants:
The following list includes all items for which an application for a sworn and non-sworn position will be automatically disqualified.

Criminal History:
Conviction of any felony;
Conviction of domestic violence;
Any conviction regarding the involvement in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs;
Conviction of any Class 1 or 2 misdemeanor (or the Virginia State Law equivalent) within the last five years, excluding traffic violations (minor offenses may be looked at on a case-by-case basis);
Embezzlement or misappropriation of funds from a former employer;
Founded child/elder abuse or neglect case;
Illegal possession of a schedule I or II drug or any derivative thereof within the last five years (excluding marijuana);
Illegal use and/or possession of anabolic steroids within the last five years;
Illegal use of any drug classified as a hallucinogen within the last five years.

Driving History:
Four or more negative points on a Virginia Operator's license (or the equivalent for out-of-state residents). Points may be negated by attending defensive driving school offered by the Department of…