Telecommunicator

Dispatcher

Answers emergency and non-emergency calls for service. Gets the correct address and information for the units responding. Dispatches police, fire, and EMS units to emergency and non-emergency calls. Monitors the radio channels and responds to all requests.

Essential Functions :

• Answers 911 Calls
• Answers Non-Emergency Calls
• Attends classes and training
• Contacts public works, power company, animal control, law enforcement, and fire agencies for service
• Dispatches Police and Fire / EMS Radio - emergency and non-emergency calls promptly and accurately
• Enters information into computer
• Monitors police and fire / EMS radio channels and responds to requests
• Operates Maps, Pagers, E-mail, Recording, and other computer applications
• Operates computer, multi-line telephone, fax, copier, printer, TDD, pagers, radios, etc.
• Performs general office duties
• Provides CPR / First Aid when needed
• Provides Emergency Medical Dispatch Pre-Arrival instructions
• Retrieves correct address and information from callers
• Runs subjects and objects on FCIC / NCIC
• Screens and monitors all incoming calls - puts in calls for service or transfers to extensions

Minimum Education and Training : Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent supplemented by up to one year of training in emergency communications, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be able to type 35 words per minute with accuracy and have good computer skills. Must possess and maintain a valid state of Florida driver's license. Must submit to, and pass, a fingerprint-based national criminal history record check and must be able to obtain, and recertify as required, the appropriate Criminal Justice Security Awareness training. Bilingual preferred. Must possess or obtain the most current FEMA 100, 200, and 700 Incident Command System certifications within 6 months of appointment to the job.

Minimum Qualifications and Standards Required :

Skill Requirements : Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of the Police Department as they pertain to the performance of duties of the Telecommunicator. Is knowledgeable in the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Has working knowledge of law enforcement procedures, fire / EMS procedures, computer technology, communications technology, etc. Has knowledge of the various terminologies and codes used in emergency communications. Is able to maintain composure and think clearly while processing emergency telephone communications. Has good public relations skills as is required in assisting and servicing the general public in various capacities. Is able to use independent judgment and discretion in providing information and assistance to various individuals involved in the operations of the Police Department. Has excellent telephone communications and clerical skills. Is able to perform duties with accuracy and professionalism despite frequent interruptions. Has knowledge of modern office practices and equipment. Has knowledge of proper English usage, vocabulary, punctuation and spelling; has knowledge of basic mathematics. Is able to type accurately at a rate sufficient for the successful performance of assigned duties. Knows how to operate and maintain a variety of office equipment as necessary in the performance of daily activities. Is skilled in applying a responsible attention to detail as necessary in preparing records and reports. Is able to read and interpret various materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Is able to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Has the ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Knows how to perform duties in a courteous manner and with the utmost integrity in the best interest of the public. Has knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the industry.

Physical Requirements : Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including a computer, telephone, radio, general office equipment, etc. Must be able to exert up to ten pounds of force occasionally and / or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for periods of time. Must be able to lift and / or carry weights of ten to twenty pounds.

Responsibilities : Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts. Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations. Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work. Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Maintains accountability for assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and conceptual areas. Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies issues or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to issues or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment.

Working Conditions : Works primarily in an office environment. Knows how to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.

Other : It is understood that every incidental duty connected with operations enumerated in the job description is not always specifically described, and employees, at the discretion of the City, may be required to perform duties not within their job descriptions.