Public Safety Telecommunications Operator

Under close supervision, coordinates and performs a variety of dispatch functions on behalf of the Lewis County E911 Communications Department; prepares and maintains dispatch records; and performs other related duties as assigned. The following duties are the fundamental, crucial job duties performed by this position. This is not a comprehensive list of all tasks that may be assigned. Incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned and appropriate for the position. Operates various types of dispatch and emergency communications equipment including multi-frequency radios, computer aided-dispatch, teletype, and TDD/TTY equipment. Receives, logs, and prioritizes incoming emergency and non-emergency calls for service. Provides assistance, information, and/or instructions to callers; directs and transfers calls to other State agencies as required. Dispatches and maintains communication with police, fire, and/or emergency medical services personnel; monitors the location and status of field personnel. Responds to inquiries from emergency response personnel; provides directions to incident scenes; logs the arrival time of responders and/or aid apparatus. Coordinates response activities with outside agencies, public works personnel, search and rescue services, coroners, mortuaries, chaplains, towing companies, and/or other relevant parties. Receives and responds to information from alarm companies regarding commercial and residential properties; monitors County alarm systems; dispatches appropriate response personnel. Researches and provides information to law enforcement personnel regarding persons, vehicles, criminal histories, warrants, protection orders, and/or stolen property. Enters information into the Washington Crime Information Computer (WACIC) and National Crime Information Computer (NCIC) systems in relation to missing persons, runaways, protection orders, stolen items, and vehicles. Assists other agencies in coordinating Child Protective Services (CPS) referrals, mental health evaluations, and/or attempts to locate individuals. Performs data entry; prepares and maintains a variety of dispatch records, reports, and documentation. Work is performed in an emergency dispatch center environment; subject to sitting for extended periods of time, standing, bending, reaching, and frequent use of personal computers. High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. Type 35 WPM. Within one year of employment completion of the following: A Telecommunications I and II Certification, Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification, First Aid/CPR Certification, Access I and II Certification, and TTY/TDD Certification are required.

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of emergency dispatch. E911 communications operations, policies, and procedures. Emergency dispatch systems and software. WACIC and NCIC databases. Departmental records, reports, and documentation.

Skills in:

Answering, prioritizing, logging, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for service. Responding to public inquiries and providing information and instructions to callers. Maintaining communication with and providing information to emergency response personnel. Preparing and maintaining accurate dispatch records and documentation. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other staff, County departments, emergency response personnel, outside agencies, and the general public. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

Ability to:

Learn and follow County policies and procedures.

Behaviors:

Regular, reliable attendance.