JOB SUMMARY:
Under general supervision, receive requests for police, fire, and emergency medical services. Dispatch and deploy public safety units and notify other support services. Provide pre-arrival emergency medical instructions. Operate various telecommunications equipment. Prepare reports and maintain files. Work a minimum of 20 hours a month unless otherwise pre-approved by the Communications Manager. This position functions at a high stress level and may deal with life-and-death situations. Applicants/employees must be able to multi-task, think clearly, and remain calm at all times. Perform other related duties as required.
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ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Answer multi-line telephones including 9-1-1 lines.
• Communicate effectively, courteously, and clearly in English, verbally and in writing; includes speaking distinctly, responding promptly, hearing efficiently to perform the essential functions necessary to protect the safety of the public and responders.
• Communicate with hearing/speech-impaired citizens by operating specialized software.
• Perform multiple tasks at one time, e.g., talk on a phone and directly input data into a computer.
• Simultaneously listen to and comprehend telephone, radio, and interoffice communications while processing calls for service.
• Operate multi-channel public safety radio system, including interoperable communications with other agencies.
• Correctly process and record requests for police, fire, and medical services, utilizing direct entry into a computer-aided dispatch system or by following manual call processing procedures. • Assign appropriate units; document all activity including location and status; quickly disseminate any additional information.
• Document all activity, location, and status in the Computer-Aided Dispatch system for public safety personnel; quickly and correctly disseminate any additional information.
• Upon certification, provide pre-arrival emergency medical instructions following department elected protocol with International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) compliance.
• Read and accurately interpret electronic maps to locate, track, provide information to responders, and/or deploy units.
• Operate computers and websites to access information requested by public safety personnel, the public, or other City personnel, e.g., records management, TCIC/NCIC, jail management, RPD Intranet, etc.
• Simultaneously input, retrieve, and maintain information, reading from both computer screens and printouts, utilizing multiple keyboards.
• Work in a confined area for 12+ hours and remain seated for long periods of time entering data into various computer systems.
• Operate in low-light conditions, discerning distinct colors used by a computer-aided dispatch system, 9-1-1 telephone equipment, or other visual resources.
• Concentrate on assigned tasks through many distractions.
• Monitor and identify activations of various alarm systems, following defined department protocols.
• Operate safely a wide range of equipment, e.g., door monitors and locks, printers, voice recorders, intercoms, alarm panels, weather monitoring devices, television monitors, copiers, document shredders, etc.
• Prepare offense/incident reports, supplement reports, and maintain various files.
• Comprehend and apply state laws, city ordinances, city and departmental policies and procedures.
• Attend/testify in all criminal and civil courts when summoned.
• Attend training schools/seminars and other city related events, which may require travel (occasionally overnight).
• Maintain high level of confidentiality.
• Read and accurately interpret graphic material in print and computer formats.
• Read written materials prepared in handwritten and multi-font print formats.
• Must not pose a threat to the health/safety of self or others.
• Remain aware of the security of the Public Safety Campus and immediately report any suspicious persons/activities to a supervisor.
• Independently make and carry out effective and timely decisions.
• Competently perform under stress when confronted with emergency and critical situations.
• Perform a variety of tasks, transitioning quickly from one to another while maintaining proficiency and composure.
• Access remote body worn and fleet cameras in emergency situations.
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OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Carry, drag, lift, and/or pull/push up to 30 pounds of supplies (computer paper, toner cartridges, product cartons, etc.)
• Stoop, squat, kneel, climb and/or stretch to reach areas of the work site for routine cleaning and inspection. ==================================================================================
REQUIRED EDUCATION, DEGREES, CERTIFICATES, AND/OR LICENSES:
High school diploma or G.E.D. certificate required. It is preferred to have a current CPR certification, EMD Certification through International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED), and a Texas Basic Telecommunications certificate. Must pass a background investigation that meets all local, state, and federal requirements as well as to be without felony convictions. ==================================================================================
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Must complete a computer-based exam with an overall score of 80% and typing speed of 30 words per minute. Must successfully complete all phases of training provided by the Richardson Police Department and demonstrate proficiency in each of the assigned areas: 911/Calltaker, Fire/EMS Records & Information (NCIC), and Police dispatch. Must have acceptable working knowledge of computer operations, stressing accuracy and speed. Must be able to: independently make and carry out effective and timely decisions; competently perform under stress when confronted with emergency and critical situations; perform a variety of tasks, transitioning quickly from one to another while maintaining proficiency and composure. Must be able to work without direct supervision.
