Communications Officer

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls and for dispatching appropriate personnel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Receives, monitors, and dispatches radio communications traffic for emergency and non-emergency situations. Receives and screens incoming telephone calls from the public and other public safety agencies; categorizes and prioritizes calls. Dispatches the appropriate emergency personnel to incident locations. Responds to citizens' requests for assistance. Maintains a continuous log of incoming telephone and radio calls; logs incoming calls for participating agencies. Monitors and routes incoming messages from national and state computer networks; enters and removes information as requested into GCIC and NCIC networks. Receives warrants; completes background and criminal background and driver history section on warrant; enters warrant information into

GCIC/NCIC

; maintains warrant files. Runs criminal and driver history checks as requested by officers. Enters information into the computer for dispatch, traffic citations, and police reports. Monitors jail security through regular checks and closed-circuit monitoring. Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Knowledge of emergency communications principles and practices. Knowledge of

GCIC/NCIC

policies and procedures. Knowledge of emergency dispatch procedures. Knowledge of radio and telecommunications equipment. Skills in the use of computers and job-related software programs. Skills in making decisions in high pressure and emergency situations. Skills in public relations. Skills in interpersonal relations. Skills in oral and written communication. Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a high school level.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Communications Supervisor assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot- checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include GCIC and NCIC guidelines, state and federal regulations, training guidelines, and city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

The work consists of related emergency communications duties. The necessity of responding to unforeseen and emergency situations contributes to the complexity of the work. The purpose of this position is to receive emergency and non-emergency calls and to dispatch emergency service personnel as appropriate. Successful performance contributes to the efficient and effective response to emergencies and life-threatening situations.

CONTACTS

Contacts are typically with department personnel, representatives of other emergency services agencies, and the public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and motivate people.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and distinguishes between shades of color. The work is typically performed in an office.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school or equivalent. One to two years of experience. Possession of or ability to readily obtain

GCIC/NCIC

certification.