Telecommunicator Specialist

Position Overview

Under the Division of 911, the Telecommunicator Specialist utilizes a multi-channel trunked radio network system simultaneously receiving, monitoring, and transmitting information and communicates within and amongst talk groups comprised of both inter- and intra-agency radio users of the trunked radio system.  This position operates a multiple-terminal console configuration over which multiple databases and messaging systems are utilized to transmit and receive police business and emergency messages between mobile and other base stations.  The Telecommunicator Specialist answers and acts upon incoming telephone calls, i.e., emergency, non-emergency, 9-1-1, from the public and, under general guidelines, assigns Illinois State Police (ISP) officers to respond to calls for service.  The position visually observes security monitors and responds to “walk-in” requests for service.   Excellent communication skills are required.

About the Agency

​​The Illinois State Police strives for excellence seeking to be one of the premiere policing agencies in the country. Our core values are Integrity, Service, and Pride. We are seeking individuals with similar values to join us on our mission to promote public safety.

Essential Functions

• Utilizing a multi-channel trunked radio network system simultaneously receives, monitors, and transmits information.


• Operates a multiple-terminal console configuration over which multiple databases and messaging systems are utilized to transmit and receive police business and emergency messages between mobile and other base stations.


• Answers and acts upon incoming telephone calls, i.e., emergency, non-emergency, 9-1-1, from the public.


• Monitors live satellite Doppler Weather System via National Weather System EmNet weather computer system and gathers information from county and local police agencies for relay to the National Weather Service via the National Warning System (NAWAS) shared telephone hotline.


• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of high school.


• Requires successful completion of the Telecommunicator Trainee Program.


• Requires possession of a valid LEADS operator certificate.


• Requires successful completion of agency provided call taker program.


• Requires successful completion of specialized training in operation of a sophisticated multi-channel trunked radio communications system. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefers at least six (6) months of Telecommunications experience.


• Prefers at least six (6) months of experience using multiple monitors simultaneously.


• Prefers at least six (6) months of experience with law enforcement computer systems (such as LEADS, CAD, NLETS, NCIC, FOID, CCH) and law enforcement terminology and concepts.


• Prefers at least six (6) months of experience operating a multiple-terminal console configuration.


• Prefers at least six (6) months of experience with obtaining and providing information via a standard telephone or two-way radio.


• Prefers at least six (6) months of experience with completing training or online courses via computer or a web based computer system.

Conditions of Employment

• Ability to pass an Illinois State Police background check and drug screening.


• Requires possession of a valid LEADS operator certificate.


• Requires a clear speaking voice.


• Must be able to work assigned shifts, weekends, and holidays. 

Benefits Package

The Illinois State Police offers a robust benefit package including:

• Health, life, vision, and dental insurance.


• 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave.


• Pension Plan


• Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs.


• Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually.


• Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service.


• Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.


• Thirteen-Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually.