Telecommunicator

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:                                                                                                                                     

Performs intermediate technical work dispatching law enforcement, fire, rescue and other equipment and personnel usually in response to emergency situations; does related work as required.  Work is performed under regular supervision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

Receiving, classifying, processing and dispatching emergency service calls utilizing E-911 and computer aided dispatch systems; receiving, recording and forwarding non-emergency service calls; preparing and maintaining computerized and other records and files.

(These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Receives emergency calls, determines location and nature of emergency and dispatches appropriate personnel and equipment.
• Dispatches emergency equipment and personnel where and when needed.
• Receives and forwards service requests, complaints and other calls for county departments.
• Receives and transmits messages by radio and maintains radio log on shift work.
• Enters and receives information on the Department of Criminal Information (DCI) computer including driver and vehicle information, criminal histories, stolen vehicles, fire arms, articles, wanted criminals, missing persons and severe weather conditions.
• Takes telephone calls concerning complaints, passes information on to appropriate units and makes record of calls.
• Types and files reports and records; generates a variety of reports as requested.
• Works varying shifts and flexible schedules.
• Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

General knowledge of the methods of operating the communications system; general knowledge of radio and teletype procedures; general knowledge of the geography of the County and location of important buildings; ability to type at a reasonable rate of speed; ability to speak distinctly; ability to utilize computer aided dispatching and networking software; ability to deal courteously with the public under stressful conditions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the general public.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This is sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects; work requires reaching, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken work, and conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately, loudly, or quickly; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels, and to receive detailed information through oral communications; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the work is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of or ability to obtain DCI, NCIC, EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatch), and CPR certifications within one year of employment.