Telecommunicator

Job TitleAccountable for receiving and processing both emergency and non-emergency calls by; providing appropriate pre-arrival instructions; entering data into a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system; evaluating situations and making decisions as to the assistance and needs of callers based on training, standard operating procedures, and agency guidelines; performing queries through the local public safety systems; operating assigned Communications Operations Bureau (COB) radio positions: the FCIC/NCIC computer and teletype radio, the law enforcement dispatch radio, and/or the fire-rescue dispatch radio; and perform their duties in accordance with ACSO operational policies. Within one (1) year of hire, the Telecommunicator must train and demonstrate proficiency in at least one (1) of the following positions: call-taking, teletype, law enforcement (ASO and/or GPD) dispatch, or fire-rescue dispatch. This position is required to train for duties on other positions based on staffing needs and as training opportunities become available. Personnel in this classification may be required to act as trainers for positions in which they are certified. Work requires independent judgment, initiative, and a calm presentation. Personnel assigned to this classification report to the Combined Communications Center (CCC) Shift Supervisor. Performance is evaluated through observation, quality assurance reports, and appropriate employee performance appraisals.Typical QualificationsEDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:High School/GED - RequiredAssociate's Degree - PreferredBachelor's Degree - PreferredPreferred Major(s): Criminal Justice, Communications, or other related fieldEXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:Successfully complete the pre-employment CritiCall testing with an overall passing scoreSuccessfully complete a pre-employment typing test with the ability to type 35 CWPM or betterSuccessfully complete the assigned training module and attain sufficient expertise to operate in a given position with minimal supervision after the assigned training periodCERTIFICATION AND LICENSING:Possess, or obtain within six (6) months of hire, the following certifications:Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD)Emergency Fire Dispatcher (EFD)Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)Emergency Telecommunicator Course (ETC)Current, valid State and National law enforcement computerized information systems (FCIC/NCIC) certification or obtain within six (6) months of hireSuccessfully complete the Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification exam within one (1) year of hireSuccessfully complete all National Incident Management System's (NIMS) Incident Command System (ICS) courses required by Department of Homeland SecurityCompletion of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Dynamics and First Responders Course within one (1) year of hireMaintain all Telecommunicator certificationsPHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Sit for extended periodsOperate foot-controlled equipment effectively for long periods of timeView multiple computer screens for extended periodsNormal vision range; see color differentiation as necessary to distinguish color variations on maps, computer screens, and radio consolesNormal hearing level; hear, understand, and respond using radio transmitters and receivers, radio consoles, telephone/radio headsets, multi-line telephone systems, and complex communications equipmentSpeak, annunciate, read, write, and understand English fluentlyClear speech and adequate hearing sufficient to communicate and respond effectively and appropriately in the work environmentUse of headsets and foot pedals to precisely hear voices and other soundsAmbulate independentlyReach, handle, and/or grasp documents and technologyManual dexterityType on computer keyboards for extended periodsKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of local, state, federal laws and applicable civil lawsFire, EMS, law enforcement and communications call taking policies and communications policies and proceduresMaintain familiarity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Call Handling Guide (CHG) and appropriate resources to acquire thorough knowledge of CCC operations and proceduresOperate a computer aided dispatch system (CAD) and a computerized telephone systemAccurately and quickly record information into CADUtilize proper telephone techniques; follow guidelines for answering emergency and non-emergency calls; assess requests and prioritize them appropriatelyAnswer emergency calls within 10 seconds, non-emergency and direct speed dial calls from the public and other agencies, obtaining and providing critical information, life-saving medical and safety instructionsInterview callers to obtain information necessary to affect the appropriate law enforcement, fire, and EMS response and to utilize the correct call handling procedures and telephone instructionsAbility to concentrate on and address more than one thing simultaneouslyMaintain familiarity with the geographical area of Alachua County and the various addressing system and can locate addresses, major roads, streets, hospitals, schools, churches, buildings and other landmarks on a mapMaintain high level of situational awarenessAcknowledge and respond to field resources telephone requests, handle assigned tasks in the communications center in an expeditious manner, and process the call for service or request for assistance in accordance with established proceduresAble to control conflict; speak with authority and confidence in a calm, clear voice, properly select words, take control of a call and elicit necessary informationMaintain confidentiality of sensitive informationTestify in court and represent the Alachua County Sheriff's Office with a positive, professional imageBenefitsWe offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees and part-time employees who work 20 hours or more a week. These benefits include health care, dental, vision, retirement, flexible spending account, and life insurance. Holidays, vacation, and sick leave hours are provided to all full-time employees. A detailed breakdown of our benefits can be found here. We also offer cutting edge and comprehensive training available for law enforcement. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office gives preference in employment/appointment to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants with disabilities will be reasonably accommodated in the application process. Minorities and protected classes are encouraged to apply.