Emergency Communications Operator

The Emergency Communications Operator (ECO) is a civilian position in which duties and responsibilities are performed under the direction of the Emergency Communications Supervisor. The ECO is responsible for answering 911 emergency calls as well as non-emergency calls that come into the center and for service to field personnel by way of a two-way radio under provisions set up by FCC, departmental orders and dispatch operating standards and requirements.

 Essential Function Duties and Responsibilities:

• Dispatches calls for police service of an emergency and non-emergency nature
• Monitors and dispatches police  activity
• Acknowledges and records the status of all units assigned to or transmitting on his/her frequency
• Checks the status of any unit on a traffic stop or any call where personal safety is a factor
• Disseminates information checks on persons, articles, and vehicles
• Records call disposition via computer terminal as advised by field units
• Coordinates the movements of law enforcement in the field
• Maintains a working knowledge of the operation of the multi-frequency radio console
• Determines proper response to field units
• Researches information for field units
• Receives telephones calls for police service and administrative needs
• Transfers calls of an emergency nature outside the city's jurisdiction to the appropriate agencies
• Provides callers with necessary assistance including transferring calls to proper departments, referring callers to proper agencies, and giving directions to streets and points of interest
• Receives requests for service from other agencies and/or officers, takes appropriate action, and logs the information as required
• Receives and relays messages via telephone, computer and radio to facilitate communication between police, fire and the general public
• Interacts in a professional manner with the public and other agencies
• Maintains a working knowledge of department rules, regulations and procedures
• Faxes and teletypes information to other law enforcement agencies
• Enters data into CAD system
• Provides information to complainants in lobby
• Records caller via CAD and logs appropriate times
• Maintains working knowledge of computer terminals for FCIC/NCIC/PALMS entries and other functions
• Operates NCIC, FCIC and PALMS computer terminals
• Makes inquiries to Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) for title and lien information
• Responds quickly to all incoming NLETS or AM messages and incoming messages directed to the department
• Puts out BOLO requests to field units, logs and files
• Assists other dispatchers in the performance of their duties
• Monitors electronic equipment and security devices.
• Notifies Emergency Communications Supervisor of any equipment malfunction or any calls of a serious, unusual, or life threatening nature
• Performs any other related duties as assigned
• Maintains ability to work weekends, holidays and shift work as required.

 Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. required

 Special Qualifications/Preferences:

• Valid State of Florida Driver's License with a good driving record
• Must have or achieve Florida Department of Health Public Safety Telecommunicator Certificate within one year of date of hire.