Police Communications Operator

Position Description

This is specialized work in receiving and dispatching messages in the Police Communications Center during an assigned shift. Work involves serving as non-sworn first responders to include responsibility for operating telephone, teletype, two-way radio, and related communications equipment and for performing related clerical tasks. These positions require fast, efficient, and accurate receiving, dispatching, and processing of calls and messages from and to police vehicles and personnel. Work is performed independently within departmental and Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations, and is reviewed by superiors through observation, conferences, and reports. Anne Arundel County Police Department is offering a $5,000 hiring bonus for NEW Anne Arundel County Police Communications Operators. $2,500 will be paid upon successful hire and classroom training, and $2,500 will be paid upon successful completion of one (1) year of employment. In addition to the $5,000 hiring bonus for NEW Anne Arundel County Police Communications Operators, applicants with prior experience within the past two (2) years as a "9-1-1- Specialist" and who has successfully completed a "Basic Telecommunicator Course" are eligible for an additional $2,500 bonus upon successful completion of one (1) year of employment. Documentation for the successful completion of the course is required prior to hire.

Examples of Duties and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Dispatches police patrol cars and officers; maintains accurate accounts of the location of patrol cars; assists police officers in locating streets and addresses; maintains radio dispatch records; and answers incoming radio calls from police units. Receives and relays police information requested to the FBI, State Police, local and out-of-state police departments, and various other law enforcement agencies; Obtains by computer information requested by patrol officers such as license plate checks for stolen cars and checks for wanted persons by name and date of birth. Notifies ambulances, towing services, road maintenance crews, signal lights crews, and the Fire Department when necessary. Operates two-way radios, teletype machines, MILES communications terminal, teleprinter, and related communications equipment. Makes entries into, and deletions from, automated files utilizing proper NCIC and MILES procedures. Prepares and maintains necessary records and reports. Serves as a non-sworn first responder. Using headset and telephone, listens to information and requests for police assistance made via 911 emergency lines; talks with citizens on 911 telephone lines to obtain information about an emergency situation. Uses a computer terminal to enter detailed information about calls for services. Work requires shift work and overtime. Performs related duties as required. Knowledge of the geography of the County and the location of streets and main highways. Basic knowledge of police functions and operations, relevant laws, and statutes related to communications. Ability to quickly learn the operation of teletype, radio, and other communications equipment in the communications center. Ability to speak clearly and concisely with a well-modulated voice so as to provide understandable information to police officers, citizens, and other involved agencies. Ability to maintain records and perform routine clerical work. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees. Ability to operate a computer terminal to enter and retrieve information. Ability to understand information received via telephone from citizens in extremely stressful situations.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or a GED Two (2) or more years of work experience with multi-faceted responsibilities One (1) or more years of experience of data entry keyboard functions Note: The two (2) or more years of work experience with multi-faceted responsibilities may be substituted with two (2) or more years of college or university education, equal to 60 or more college credit hours. Note: Experience of data entry keyboard functions is defined as any electronic input, including but not limited to Computer Entry, Phone Entry, Tablet Entry, and other related electronic keyboarding input.

Supplemental Qualifications

An observation at the 911 Communications Center is HIGHLY ENCOURAGED of candidates who successfully complete the interview process; this will consist of a 2-hour call taking observation period and/or a 2-hour dispatch observation period. Candidates must be able to work rotating shifts, weekends, overtime, holidays, and call back. This is a continuous 24 hour/365 day operation. This position is safety sensitive and employees in these positions are subject to Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) and Alcohol testing. The selection process includes a comprehensive background investigation. Upon successful completion of twelve (12) months, employees hired at the minimum rate of pay for the grade receive a 9% increase for satisfactory performance. Employees in this classification are also eligible to receive longevity pay. An employee who completes continuous service with the County in the Police Communications Operator II classification will receive the following: 7 years of continuous service with the County - 5% increase of the current rate of pay 11 years of continuous service with the County - 10% increase of the current rate of pay 16 years of continuous service with the County - 15% increase of the current rate of pay 22 years of continuous service with the County - 18% increase of the current rate of pay CritiCall testing dates are tentatively scheduled for October 26, 2026, through November 6, 2026. The CritiCall test is available online (remotely). You can access/complete the test from any computer that is fully compatible with the latest version of Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. If you cannot complete the test remotely, please email Eric Stewart-Craig at View email address on click.appcast.io or call at View phone number on click.appcast.io to make arrangements to take the CritiCall test onsite (in-person) at Anne Arundel County Government's Office of Personnel located at 2660 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401. You must present a valid photo identification, preferably a driver's license, at check-in. Applicants without valid identification, regardless of reason, will not be permitted. Click here to access the CritiCall Candidate Test Preparation Guide.