Communications Operator

Bland County is seeking applicants for the position of Full-time Communications Operator in the 911 Dispatch Center. SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE

Under direct supervision of the 911 Coordinator, the Communications Operator expedites the handling of incoming calls and serves as the “lifeline” for the officers involved. The operator must exercise careful thought and good judgement in all situations.

• Operate a base station, repeater sites, and mobile or portable units along with the required antennas, cables, and related items.
• Maintain online communications with the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and the National Criminal Information Center (NCIC). All radio operations comply with FCC as well as state requirements (VCIN & SIRS).
• Operate radio equipment with multiple channels to receive reports and complaints and dispatch mobile law enforcement, fire, and rescue units; maintain the location and status of all mobile units at all times on computer radio logs.
• Operate a multi‑line telephone center to receive information, complaints, and requests for assistance, transfer callers to the proper extension or agency, and relay information to the appropriate mobile units.
• Maintain a complete and correct computer radio log of all activities.
• Operate one or more computer terminals to send messages and to enter information into local, state and national files.
• Operate 24‑hour computer terminals to extract information from databases regarding vehicles, items or persons, criminal histories, etc., as requested by sworn personnel.
• Handle public and private security alarms and fire alarms.
• Identify the station and call sign every 30 minutes on the hour and half‑hour and provide the FCC identifier after long transmissions.
• Number all complaints in the CAD system in which a deputy acts unless told otherwise; enter and clear warrants into the computer as needed.
• Maintain the recording machine and change the disc in a timely manner.
• Work rotating shifts and obtain necessary information to complete property check forms for citizens planning to be out of town, log this information into the House Check log, and distribute to patrol.

High school graduate with a combination of post‑high school education and experience in criminal justice or related fields. Demonstrated ability to communicate verbally and in writing; experience assuring confidentiality; moderate computer skills; interpersonal skills and past performance history indicating a team‑player; possession of a valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver’s License.

Applicants must be willing to work all shifts. Combination of education and experience in law enforcement are preferred. All applicants are subject to criminal history background check, drug testing, previous employment investigations, and character references.

Bland County is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, race, religious affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.