Communications Officer

Position Summary Under the direct supervision of the Central Dispatch Director and Deputy Director, the Communications Officer relays information from emergency callers to the proper resources (police, fire, and emergency medical responders). The officer manages 9-1-1 and cellular 9-1-1 telephone lines, Smart 9‑1‑1, and text 9‑1‑1, and monitors and dispatches 34 police, fire, and EMS agencies within St. Clair County. Responsibilities include collecting, storing, retrieving, and disseminating information essential to emergency service operations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Receive all incoming calls from the public requesting police, fire, and/or emergency medical assistance. Disseminate emergency information to first responders in a calm, collective manner. Gather, classify, and supplement pertinent information obtained from the caller, then enter it into the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system. Determine which response agency is responsible for responding to the call and dispatch the appropriate units. Provide emergency medical instructions as outlined in protocol while forwarding information to the dispatcher for appropriate services. Process incoming calls and accurately type simultaneously on the computer to relay all pertinent information to dispatch. Provide emergency assistance to callers until responding emergency units arrive and assume control of the situation. Operate a CAD console equipped with multiple computer terminals, including mapping and aerial photography. Monitor and control a large number of public safety resources throughout St. Clair County. Query and enter information (e.g., stolen articles, wanted persons, missing persons, criminal history checks) through Michigan’s Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Mitigate multiple situations simultaneously and maintain knowledge of location and availability of all field units. Monitor emergency radio frequencies of public agencies, including civil defense. Transmit information to police vehicles concerning wanted persons, stolen vehicles, hazardous street conditions, and other important information. Control operation of roadblocks and major emergency plans, and maintain related files. Maintain control of all calls received and transmissions made on radio and telephone. Maintain street locations, emergency phone numbers, patrol schedules, and other pertinent records. Instruct new personnel on the use of communication equipment. Train new dispatchers and assist dispatch supervisors in evaluating employee progress and performance. Perform other duties as assigned. Experience, Skills, and Education High school diploma or G.E.D. required. At least 1 year of experience in administrative support, customer service, emergency communications, or a fast‑paced multi‑discipline environment. Strong determination, humility, and diligence in daily operations. Ability to multitask using multiple computer programs, radio frequencies, and phone lines. Knowledge of local geography, waterways, and landmarks. Effective communication with management, co‑workers, and clients; ability to convey complex ideas clearly. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook) and general computer skills. Strong written and verbal communication, research, and problem‑solving skills. Experience with standard office equipment, document management, and record keeping. Essential Abilities for All St. Clair County Job Classifications Reliable attendance. Reading, writing, and basic mathematics proficiency in English. Interpret and apply procedures, rules, and technical information accurately. Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes using good judgment. Maintain discretion with sensitive and confidential information. Work independently or as part of a team with appropriate interaction with county officials, employees, vendors, and the public. Adaptability to change in the work environment and manage competing demands. Provide customer and personal services, assess needs, and meet quality standards. Proficient in Microsoft Office programs; proficiency may be tested. Conditions of Employment Complete a satisfactory background check prior to employment, including drug screen, physical, criminal background, driving record, sex offender registry, education, training, licensing verification, employment history, credit check, and references. Pass an extensive criminal background check, comprehensive physical examination, psychiatric evaluation, and hearing test. Possess a valid State of Michigan operator license and maintain it throughout employment. Be at least 18 years of age. Successfully complete CTO training within 6–9 months of hire. Willing to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays, including overtime. Meet all LEIN and NCIC security requirements as a terminal operator. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions Work on a 24/7, 365‑day schedule with 12‑hour shifts; no scheduled lunch or breaks. Operate in a high‑stress environment with prolonged exposure to intense activity and sudden changes in activity levels. Maintain 20/20 corrected vision and color discrimination; hearing in both ears not less than 40 dB; ability to speak and listen by telephone and two‑way radio. Use hands to operate a computer, handle materials, and operate equipment. Lift, move, or carry objects up to 25 pounds; sit, bend, stoop, crouch, crawl, and kneel ergonomically. Stand, walk, walk stairs, and pull or push carts; reach with hands and arms above and below shoulder level. Work in an environment with noise levels above average and frequent interruptions. AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER St. Clair County does not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr