Performs responsible communications and related work for the County's law enforcement, fire, and emergency services functions.
An employee in this class receives incoming routine and emergency calls, dispatches personnel and equipment, and maintains contact with law enforcement units, rescue, fire, EMS, and mutual aid as required. Work involves operating the computer-aided dispatch equipment (CAD), and the computer terminal connected to the Division of Criminal Information (DCI) and the National Crime Information Center, and maintaining records and call logs in the computer systems. Work also involves providing Emergency Medical Dispatch pre-arrival and post dispatch instructions and advising agencies on severe weather emergencies. Work involves frequent public contact which requires tact, firmness, decisiveness and judgment in obtaining necessary information from people who are under extreme stress and choosing appropriate courses of action. Work is performed in accordance with departmental policy and state and federal law. Work is performed under the supervision of the Communications Shift Supervisor and is evaluated through observation, monitoring, and review of calls and related work.
Considerable knowledge of the operation of a electronic radio and telecommunications systems and related Federal Communications Commission regulations.
Working knowledge of the functions, practices and procedures of a variety of law enforcement agencies, volunteer fire departments, emergency rescue units, and other emergency response agencies.
Working knowledge of the physical layout of the county.
Ability to accurately receive and transmit radio communications.
Ability to assess people and situations, to apply sound judgment, to remain calm under stressful conditions and to elicit sufficient and essential information for dispatching and assisting field personnel.
Ability to operate computers and enter data accurately.
Ability to speak clearly and distinctly.
Ability to maintain accurate and complete work activity records and files, including operating computer terminals.
Ability to maintain calm control and exercise sound judgment under the stress of emergency conditions.
Graduation from high school and some communications, dispatching or other public contact work preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
