Communications Operator/Telecommunicator

Description

Job Summary

Responsible for the proficient operation of the communication and dispatch functions of the shift. Duties include those of the call taker as well as all radio positions. This employee reports directly to the assigned Shift Communications Supervisor of PSCC.

Major Essential Duties

• Answers 911 and 7 digit non-emergency phone lines in a timely and courteous fashion
• Enters information received into the Computer Aided Dispatch system in a timely, accurate, and complete fashion
• Handles radio communications
• Dispatches appropriate personnel via radio, or other approved method, any and all calls and requests in a timely, accurate and courteous fashion
• Responsible to complete requests for information and contacts as requested by public safety agencies operating in the field, including but not limited to phone calls, and other information systems including LINK, NCIC, , E-Warrant System, and paging system
• Provides accounting for activities of all public safety personnel and equipment as reported to PSCC via radio and telephone by entry into the CAD system
• Responsible for carrying out all policies, general orders and directives for the Communications Section.
• Handles all communications assigned to their respective position and assists other telecommunicators as part of the team. Maintains situational awareness within the Center via passing of voice and written data to and from other operators within the Center. Must be able to multi-task while listening to both traffic on the station and dialog within the room.
• Operate LINK, NCIC, AVIS, DLIC, NLETS, Criminal History III and other computer system inquiries as requested by Law Enforcement member agencies as regulated by applicable Federal, State, and local rules, regulations, statues, ordinances, policies and operating procedures.
• Assists in development of all Standard Operating Procedures for dispatch.
• Trained and complies with all Federal, State, and PSCC rules, regulations, standard operating procedures, general orders, and directives for the Communication Section.
• Enters and process warrants and protections orders.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• In the absence of Shift Supervisor may be appointed as Acting Shift Supervisor to perform and carry out their duties.

Relationships

• Operators work in close relationship with Shift Supervisors keeping them apprised of daily operations. This position is closely monitored and supervised.

Requirements

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience

• Graduate of standard high school, or equivalent supplemented with some experience in computers and customer service. Any combination of experience and training which provides the desired knowledge, skills and abilities required.

Language Skills

• Ability to communicate effectively in English both orally and in writing
• Ability to create shift reports
• Ability to assist in the development of all standard operating procedures in dispatch

Mathematical Skills

• Able to multiply, divide, add and subtract
• Demonstrate the ability to read maps

Reasoning Skills

• Ability to solve practical problems
• Ability to be patient and objective
• Problem solving and resolution

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations 

The ability to obtain

• State Telecommunicator Certification(TIPS)
• Criminal Justice Information System Certification(CJIS)
• Appropriate National Incident Management Certifications (NIMS)
• Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)

Other Knowledge and/or Skills

• Have knowledge of the operation of a copy machine, computer, fax machine and other related office equipment.
• Ability to keep accurate records
• Strong file organization skills
• Ability to work under close supervision

Physical Demands

• While performing job duties, the employee could reasonably be expected to sit, stand or walk and hear, reach with hands and arms, use hands to type, handle paper and file. Must be able to lift or move up to 20 pounds
• Vision requirements include close, distance, color and peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus
• Must be able to pass an audiogram test for hearing
• Must be able to file, bend and stoop at file cabinets and lift ledgers as needed

Work Environment

• The work environment is considered a standard office environment. It has a noise level that is Low to Moderate.

Comments

An employee in this job must display the following:

• Positive and Professional Attitude
• Be a team-player
• Must be able to take instruction
• Must be dependable

• Adherence to the applicable provisions of the Department Rules and Regulations, the Boone County Administrative Code, the Kentucky Revised Statutes, and any other procedures, rules, regulations, and polices set forth by appropriate authorities
• Must have personal integrity and remain free of felony convictions
• Commitment to serve the county’s best interests
• Ability to work all shifts
• Must maintain confidentiality 
• Must be 18 years or older
• Must be bondable