GENERAL PURPOSE

This is a training position in responsible specialized work in dispatching police units to emergencies and assisting the public and providing information to officers through State-wide computer systems and complaint desk activities. Work is performed under the direction of the Communications Supervisor.

MAIN JOB TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Receives training from an assigned Communications Operator II trainer on how to perform the role of a Communications Operator to include the following:
• Receives incoming calls, obtains essential data, evaluates the situation, and takes appropriate response.
• Handles complaints and handles emotionally hostile persons on telephone or at the counter.
• Responds to service and information requests from agency personnel.
• Performs all aspects of FCIC/NCIC data entry/inquiry.
• Runs, reads and enters driver’s licenses and registrations through FCIC/NCIC data base and runs warrant checks.
• Answers after hour utility calls.
• Dispatch on call utilities personnel.
• Assists other agencies.
• Operates an 800 mhz radio, computer and telephone simultaneously, dispatching information regarding emergency calls from the public and public safety personnel.
• Operates the Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system terminals
• Operates equipment in the emergency command center during disasters or mobilizations.
• Maintains a wide variety of records and logs. Files documents and records, etc.
• Maintains security of the communications room.
• Studies maps to gain familiarity with major landmarks, roads, streets, and buildings within the city and county
• Accesses, inputs and retrieves information from a computer.
• Sends out emails.
• Follows written and oral instructions.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school graduation or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• FCIC/NCIC certified within six (6) months of hire.
• Department of Health certified within one (1) year of hire.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

A comparable amount of training, education or experience can be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Skill in the efficient operation of the communication and retrieval equipment in the system.
• Ability to learn the operating characteristics of the communications equipment used in the system.
• Ability to learn the functions, procedures, policies and regulations of the communications system and of the police department.
• Ability to learn City streets and landmarks.
• Ability to elicit information necessary for proper dispatching from citizens in a distressed or confused condition.
• Ability to assess people and situations and use judgment in decision making.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers and the general public.
• Ability to understand and express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Ability to speak clearly, distinctly and politely.
• Ability to access, input and retrieve information from a computer.
• Ability to type 35 cwpm.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to develop skill in the operation of equipment utilized in the system.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Works inside in an office environment under stressful conditions.
• Acceptable eyesight (with or without correction).
• Acceptable hearing (without hearing aid).
• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
• Ability to access, input and retrieve information from a computer.
• Ability to type accurately.
• Listening.
• Ability to enter data at a prescribed rate of speed.

Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with existing ADA requirements for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.

The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.