Communications Specialist

Life Flight Network is one of the most prominent not-for-profit air ambulance organizations. As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice, and innovation in the skies and on the ground. Being a member of our esteemed team means embarking on a career defined by distinction, pride, compassion, and unwavering service. We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment. Our collective brilliance shines as we come together to make a difference in the communities we serve. Here, you'll findthe best and the brightest talents, who are second to none in their dedication and expertise. Are you ready to unleash your potential and make a real impact in your community? If you're seeking a rewarding and fulfilling path, then look no further - Life Flight Network is the place where your aspirations will take flight! The Communication Specialist is responsible for receiving, coordinating and following through to conclusion all requests for assistance involving Life Flight Network (LFN) by using established protocols and procedures, always keeping in mind the importance of exemplary customer service. The Communication Specialist will be responsible for succinctly and professionally communicating with sending and receiving facilities and their transfer centers (if applicable), LFN medical staff, 911 centers, and other members of the EMS community. QUALIFICATIONS Strong customer service skills High School Diploma or equivalent Two years experience in police, fire, or medical emergency dispatch preferred Previous air medical dispatch experience strongly preferred Medical Terminology knowledge Two way radio proficiency Skilled in multi-line phone systems Ability to respond quickly and prioritize duties in a rapidly changing environment while maintaining a professional demeanor Excellent written and verbal interpersonal communication skills primarily via e-mail and phone Basic map reading skills Intermediate knowledge of MS Office and general computer skills Emergency Medical Technician a plus IAMTCS certificate required within 1 year from date of hire GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS MISSION AND VALUES: LFN mission, values, and strategic goals are clearly understood and demonstrated. Participates in planning which reinforces values, mission, and goals Participates willingly in department activities and supports values, mission, and goals Consistently exhibits conduct, performance, and productivity to maintain the credibility and confidence of others in the LFN Recognizes the importance of the communication center as the first contact LFN's customers have with our organization RECEIVING AND COORDINATION: Receives, evaluates, prioritizes, and coordinates emergency and routine service requests. Answers multiple telephone lines within three rings with employee and department identification In instances of excessive, multiple activity, calls are initially screened for priority, always with a focus on customer service Accurately gathers and relays necessary information from callers for standbys and activation of the LFN helicopters, ground ambulances, and fixed wing services, including notifying the appropriate aircraft and/or ground ambulance of the request for service during initial phone call with customer 100% of time gives customer an accurate ETA for our services during the first phone call and within 60 seconds of initial receipt of call Accurately takes into account call locations, circumstances and personnel activity for assignment of the most appropriate unit Maintains a calm, courteous, and professional demeanor at all times Be able to take a flight request and dispatch independently within 30 days of hire Expected to remain at console while any transport is in progress or any team is on standby. A flight in progress is defined as beginning with the initial call for service and concluding at the time the aircraft has returned to its base and a flight debrief has been completed. Required to remain on duty until relief is briefed and ready to begin shift DOCUMENTATION / RECORD-KEEPING: Records events and information. As events occur, accurately, completely, uniformly, and legibly records all aspects of service requests within the electronic dispatch software and/or on the appropriate forms Knows what information is available and the proper storage locations of resource material DISSEMINATION / EQUIPMENT: Communication equipment and mapping resources are utilized for processing and dissemination of requests. Completely understands and properly utilizes all features of the Comm-Center radio(s) and telephone equipment and equipment updates as they are installed Completely understands and properly utilizes all features of support equipment: Dictaphone, clocks, paging systems, HEAR, scanner, camera monitors, emergency power access, lighting, fire terminal and security/safety alarms Properly cares for and maintains all departmental equipment and departmental issued equipment Reports any departmental equipment and/or departmental issued equipment in need of repair Recognizes malfunctions of all equipment and performs basic troubleshooting repairs Completely understands and utilizes all available mapping resources necessary for plotting service-request locations Proactively maintains thorough familiarization with service areas at all bases and locations served by LFN SUPPORT SERVICES: Utilizes supporting agencies for assistance and reporting. Understands the role of the Medical Resource Hospital (MRH) within the Portland Metro area trauma system Maintains a working knowledge of the Oregon, Washington and Idaho Trauma system patient-care process Understands area mass-casualty procedures Makes all contacts in a style that reflects cooperative task accomplishment and maintains a good rapport with co-workers LEGALITIES: Understands the rules, regulations, and laws associated with LFN. Maintains a working knowledge of the FCC radio communications regulations Maintains a working knowledge of persons'/patients' rights to confidentiality Understands LFN policies regarding press releases EDUCATION / CQI: Participates in company and departmental meetings and employee education. Attends 80% of department staff meetings Responsible for reviewing all staff meeting minutes Assists new employees with policy/procedure education Supports and assists key trainers with staff education Participates as a team member in CQI activities to optimize program service to the sponsoring hospitals, patients, and the community Participates with management team in the growth and improvement of LFN business to meet medical transport service and financial performance goals CLEANLINESS / ORGANIZATION: Common work area is maintained in a neat, clean, and organized manner to present a professional image. Daily cleans and sanitizes work area and equipment for shift relief Keeps work area clear of non-business-related items Properly files resource materials after each use The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical extension of the position. Benefits That Go Above and Beyond At Life Flight Network , we believe our team members deserve more than just a job - they deserve a rewarding, supported, and balanced life. That's why we offer a thoughtful benefits package that truly sets us apart: Compensation & Retirement Competitive pay 401(k) with a 100% vested employer contribution - your future grows from day one Tenure bonuses to reward your loyalty and long-term commitment Health & Wellness Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage Company-paid Life and AD&D Insurance Company-paid Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance for peace of mind Wellness Reimbursement Program to support your health goals Complimentary Life Flight Network Membership for you and your household Family & Lifestyle Paid Parental Leave to support growing families Adoption Assistance for those building families in new ways Bereavement Leave (including for pets) - because every family member matters Paid Volunteer Time - make a difference in the community, on us Generous Paid Time Off. Please see the full benefits summary for more details Growth & Recognition Tuition and Training Reimbursement to invest in your professional development Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer. As a nonprofit recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, your service with Life Flight Network may qualify you for federal student loan forgiveness Employee Recognition Awards celebrating your impact and achievements Multilingual Stipend to honor the value of diverse communication skills Join Life Flight Network and be part of a team that takes care of those who care for others - both in and out of the workplace. All candidates are subject to drug screening and background investigation. Life Flight Network is an equal opportunity employer.