Dispatcher/Communications Officer

Job Summary

Under general supervision of the Communications Supervisor, responsible for receiving and transmitting messages by radio, telephone and other electronic methods to the police department, fire department, and other agencies or personnel. The employee receives somewhat general instructions for the work to be performed, but most aspects of the work are guided by specific operating standards or procedures. There are times when independent judgment is necessary.

Essential Functions & Job Responsibilities

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class. Receives and transmits routine and emergency messages via radio, telephone and other means for the police department, fire department, and other agencies or personnel; maintains a log of all radio traffic, including but not limited to, all traffic stops, arrests, license and auto registration checks, response times on police and fire calls, complaints, etc. Monitors all alarms and dispatches proper service response. Operates E-911 dispatch system and NCIC computer. This position requires stability and alertness in order to make sound judgment calls. Reliable attendance is an essential function of this job.

Knowledge / Education

Rules and regulations of the Federal Communication Commission pertaining to transmitting and receiving messages by radio; operation of radio transmitting and receiving equipment, E-911 equipment, NCIC computer system and other equipment generally used in an emergency dispatch operation; laws and ordinances of the city and State of Tennessee; modern office practices, procedures and equipment. Ability to: ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including department policies and procedures; establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and other employees; public contact, in a variety of situations, is frequent; react quickly and calmly in emergency situations, and follow proper policies and procedures; obtain working knowledge of the Goodlettsville "10-Codes".

Training & Experience

A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is graduating from high school or a GED; preferably with some training in the use of computers; must complete a basic computer operations course (if offered by City); must complete a TCIC computer course and maintain certification; must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of Tennessee; must pass a medical examination by licensed physician; must pass a drug screen by licensed physician; minimum of eighteen (18) years of age; pass a background investigation.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Goodlettsville is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.