Communications Operator

Job Summary

This is routine shift work in dispatching emergency services, equipment and personnel.

Work involves the operation of a radio, telephone, and other telecommunication equipment in the Police Communication Center. Emergency calls are received from the public and incumbents are required to contact the unit(s) to be dispatched, giving the type and location of the emergency and related information. Work is reviewed while in progress and through evaluation of records and reports.

Essential Job Functions
This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Any essential function or requirement of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant when possible.

General: 

• Monitors telephone systems and takes pertinent information regarding emergency and non-emergency calls.


• Dispatches appropriate emergency services to respond to calls.


• Maintains information in which emergency units are in service and tracks their location.


• Maintains radio contact with emergency personnel dispatched to a call.


• Dispatches back-up units as necessary.


• Monitors radio frequencies which may have a bearing on City services.


• Transmits and receives all pertinent information relating to stolen/missing/wanted persons/items.


• Inputs and retrieves data on the in-house computer including, but not limited to, calls for services, field contacts, lookouts, etc.


• Monitors a variety of receiving stations including, but not limited to, Conyers Security Alert, closed circuit television.


• Contacts other emergency agencies regarding specific issues by telephone.


• Performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Completion of a standard high school diploma, GED or equivalent from a regionally or nationally accredited school. Associates degree in criminal justice or related field is preferred.

Experience: Prior experience in the field of emergency services, including dispatching and call-taking. Any equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable. Secondary language preferred. 

Any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential  functions of the job. 

Certification(s): Successful completion of the Georgia Basic Communications Officer Training Course.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

Knowledge of: 

• Knowledge of the general procedures governing emergency services.


• Knowledge of radio signals and ten-codes.


• Knowledge of the geography of the City of Conyers.

Skill and Abilities:

• Skill in operating a variety of radio equipment, computer equipment, technical equipment and telephone systems. 


• Skill in communication with nervous, confused or hysterical people while obtaining necessary and pertinent information.


• Ability to work rotating shifts as assigned, including nights, weekends, and holidays. 


• Ability to act quickly, clearly and effectively in stressful situations.


• Ability to communicate effectively orally and telephonically, as well as be able to use Teletype Device for Deaf (TDD) equipment to communicate with the hearing impaired.


• Ability to multi-task.


• Ability to sit for extended periods of time at a workstation.


• Ability to hear and comprehend several modes of communication occurring simultaneously. Examples: phone, radio, personal computer and alarms. 

Pre-Employment Requirements:

The following requirements are necessary for State certification (Rules of Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, Chapter 464-14):

•  Be at least eighteen (18) years of age


•  Be a citizen of the United States


•  Have a high school diploma or it’s recognized equivalent


•  Be fingerprinted and a search made of local, state and national level to disclose any criminal record


• Not have been convicted by any state or federal government of any crime, which could have resulted in imprisonment.


• Must not have a pattern of law violations


• Possess good moral character


• Must be able to pass an exam for physical, emotional and mental fitness


• Complete a basic training course of 40 hours within the first six (6) months of employment.