Communications Officer

GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:

Performs intermediate technical work dispatching law enforcement, fire, rescue, and other equipment and personnel usually in response to emergency situations; does related work as required. Work is performed under the regular supervision of a Communications Supervisor or Communications Manager.

Communications Officers work an assigned 12-hour shift (7am-7pm; 7pm-7am; 1pm-1am) rotating on/off duty in a 3 on >2 off >2 on >3 off pattern. 

This is sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects; work requires reaching, fingering, grasping, feeling, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word, and conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately, loudly, or quickly; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels, and to receive detailed information through oral communications; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

• Receiving, classifying, processing and dispatching emergency service calls utilizing E-911 and computer aided dispatch systems; receiving, recording, and forwarding non-emergency service calls; preparing and maintaining computerized and other records and files.
• Receives law enforcement, medical, fire, rescue and related service requests and calls;
• Operates radios, telephone switchboard, alarm systems, recording devices and computer terminals;
• Dispatches emergency equipment and personnel where and when needed;
• Receives and forwards service requests, complaints, and other calls for County departments and other agencies;
• Receives and transmits messages by radio and maintains radio log;
• Operates telecomputer terminals on NCIC/VCIN Networks;
• Prepares and maintains public safety computer records;
• Maintains familiarity with operating procedures of agencies served;
• Performs a variety of clerical tasks as directed;
• Keeps in telephone contact with caller when situation dictates;
• Maintains required certifications related to performance of duties;
• Performs related tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

General knowledge of the methods of operating the communications system; general knowledge of radio and teletype procedures; general knowledge of the geography of the County and location of important buildings; ability to type and enter data at a reasonable rate of speed; ability to speak distinctly; ability to solve problems within scope of responsibility; ability to deal courteously with the public under stressful conditions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the general public. Must be able to type 40WPM.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Graduation from high school or high school equivalency (GED).

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain Emergency Medical Dispatch certification, VCIN certification and complete required training programs within one year of employment.