Communications Operator

POSITION: Communications Operator

HOURS: Part-Time

DEPARTMENT: Sheriff

FSLA STATUS: Non-Exempt

Communications Operators must respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance and information. They must provide dispatch and communication support services for police, fire, emergency, and related services.

Essential job functions within a Communications Operator's job description will likely detail the daily duties associated with the position, which may include the following:

• Operate a multi-line telephone console system, alerting system, and TDD system for the deaf and hearing-impaired
• Translate information to the appropriate codes
• Determine and assign the level of priority of the call and enter the data into a computer-aided dispatch system for radio dispatch purposes
• Perform crisis intervention services
• Ask vital questions for emergency response
• Monitor and operate a radio console and computer equipment
• Receive and respond to a variety of emergency and non-emergency services and complaints
• Ask questions to interpret, analyze and anticipate the caller’s situation as to resolve problems, provide information, dispatch emergency services, or refer callers to other agencies
• Dispatch and coordinate the responses of public safety agencies
• Identify appropriate number and type of equipment or apparatus to dispatch
• Enters and modifies information into local, state and national computer databases
• Monitor and respond to a variety of technical systems and alarms

• Customer Service:
  Candidates must have knowledge of providing excellent customer service.
• Geography:
  Candidates must understand jurisdictional boundaries, as well as thoroughfares, landmarks, public buildings and waterways within the jurisdiction.

• The ability to develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with fellow employees, representatives from other departments, and supervisors
• The ability to use logic and reasoning to reach conclusions and approaches to problems
• The ability to use judgment and decision-making skills to evaluate situations, establish priorities, and resolve matters
• The ability to think quickly
• The ability to work under stressful situations
• The ability to actively listen and communicate effectively through clear speech and hearing
• The ability to follow instructions
• The ability to write clearly and spell correctly
• The ability to establish priorities and pass on information as needed

Candidates must be at least 18 years old, and they must possess a high school diploma or GED. Possess a valid driver’s license and to not have any felony convictions.

Candidates for these positions must also expect to undergo a background investigation that meets all local, state and federal requirements, as well as a drug screen.

The completion of a comprehensive training program within the first two years of employment. This includes classroom training and extensive, on-the-job training.

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

Job description is available at the Sheriff’s office, County Administration office, and on the county website.

Position open until filled.

Bland County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.