Communications Officer

Dispatcher To apply for this position an applicant must hold an Oregon DPSST Basic Telecommunicator Certification. This posting is open until filled. Hiring Bonus: If the successful applicant holds a current, valid Oregon DPSST Basic Telecommunicator Certification when hired, they will be paid a taxable bonus of $2500 in the first payroll period after hire. A second taxable bonus of $2500 will be paid upon successful completion of the 18-month probationary period. The recruitment will use the following process, which can take a couple of months. You will not proceed to the next step until the previous step is completed. Submit Application Application Review Online Testing Select Advantage Testing Oral Board Interviews Dispatch Sit In Comprehensive Background Investigation Psychological examination Conditional Offer Medical Exam/Drug Screen Operates communications equipment to receive and process incoming emergency 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for assistance. Performs dispatch duties and keep accurate records of communications received and transmitted for police, fire, and emergency medical response as well as other agencies. Often high intensity and fast moving work is involved. Works under the close supervision of the Communications Supervisor. None. Operates radio and multi-line phone telephone control consoles receiving both emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire and medical emergency assistance and other public requests for help. Effectively route other calls for service to other appropriate agencies. Dispatches medical call in accordance with APCO procedures and gives pre-arrival instructions to callers awaiting arrival of responding units. Questions callers with professionalism and control to determine the nature of the problem being reported and gather required information. Accesses computer terminals to obtain, transmit and record information such as vehicle license numbers, driver's information, warrants and stolen vehicles information; enter and record information via computer terminal; maintain status of equipment to maintain control and record the activity of the dispatched units. Dispatches calls to appropriate units or departments; maintain information on units' activities. Maintains contact with emergency apparatus and personnel using two-way radio, telephone, mobile dispatch terminals and computer aided dispatch system (CAD). Uses cameras to monitor individuals in holding cells for proper conduct, safety, and medical or other needs; immediately alerts an on-duty officer of any concerns. Performs other duties as assigned by the Communications Supervisor, Police Support Services Manager, and Police Chief. The duties listed above 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 the position. Qualifications Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent. Bi-lingual ability in English and Spanish preferred and is incentivized. Experience in a multi-task, public service, and/or customer service environment preferred. DPSST Telecommunications Intermediate Certification Special Requirements: Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, an extensive background check and the ability to obtain Oregon State Police CJIS clearance. Ability to possess and maintain Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) certification, APCO Emergency Medical Dispatch certification, and DPSST Telecommunications certification. Ability to work rotating shifts, and normal shifts that may be extended, work weekends, holidays, and work overtime as assigned; dependable and predictable employment is required. Possess a commitment to comply with confidentiality requirements and agency policies Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Current knowledge of, or the ability to study and maintain familiarity with major roads, streets, industrial areas, public buildings and the general geographic locations and landmarks within jurisdictions of Dundee, Newberg, and the Ambulance Service District. Basic to intermediate level of computer knowledge and experience. High level skills in listening and communication; speaking clearly and distinctly in an appropriate tone of voice. Skill in the operation of the tools and equipment listed below. Documented ability of net typing speed of at least 45 words per minute. Ability to make independent decisions and exercise sound judgment consistent with appropriate policies, procedures, and techniques applicable to handling emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively verbally with a diverse range of contacts. Ability to follow and give verbal and written instructions. Ability to remain alert throughout an assigned shift, under varying levels of multiple simultaneous tasking and urgency. Ability to be flexible and highly adaptable to change. Ability to remain calm, deal with constant interruptions, and handle stressful situations; politically astute. Ability to simultaneously answer telephone calls and dispatch emergency services units as well as listen to radio traffic. Ability to maintain professionalism at all times, establish and maintain positive and cooperative working relationships with City staff and others contacted in the performance of duties. Communications Officers perform work duties at stationary dispatch stations which require the use of headsets, computer terminals and monitors, two-way radio and multi-line phone system, computer-aided systems; personal computer including word processing software; recording machine; standard office equipment, and a variety of communication devices. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to meet the needs of qualified individuals with limitations who can perform the essential functions of the job. Sit at a desk for extended periods of time; occasionally walk, stand, or stoop; occasionally lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects weighing up to 25 pounds; use tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity; work for sustained periods of time maintaining concentrated attention to detail. Must meet all physical standards as set forth by the State of Oregon DPSST to include visual acuity, hearing, speaking and basic physical health that provides the stamina to perform duties of the position for long periods of time. Work is performed at the Newberg-Dundee Police Department at stationary dispatch stations under rotating shifts providing 24/7 coverage over weekends and holidays. Work hours may include assigned overtime that may exceed an employee's regular work shift. Work location may include varying noise and lighting levels. This position may require travel for meetings, training, and other responsibilities. This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Selection guidelines: Formal application, rating of education and experience; written test, oral interview reference check and background investigation; drug screen; other job related tests may be required.