Probationary Fire Alarm Oper

Job Description

Salary Range: $56,120.22 -$56,120.22

Works under the general supervision of the Watch Commander or assigned supervisor in the Communications Service Center to provide emergency dispatch services and information to the public. Maintains communication with field units to support effective emergency response operations. Receives and processes emergency and non-emergency calls; interrogates callers to obtain and document critical information, including the nature, location, and time of the incident, as well as caller details. Evaluates incoming calls, requests, and complaints to determine appropriate response actions in accordance with established protocols. Operates multiple communication and dispatch systems simultaneously, including telephone switchboard systems, Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD), Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio consoles, paging systems, and video monitoring equipment. Utilizes standardized Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocols to gather critical information and provide callers with pre-arrival medical instructions until emergency personnel arrive on scene. Dispatches appropriate Fire Services personnel to incidents via radio communication and monitors transmissions to maintain accurate, real-time status of personnel and emergency units. Researches and verifies geographic information to assist Fire Services personnel in identifying and responding to incident locations. Maintains and updates electronic records, logs, and distribution lists to support the accurate and timely dissemination of information. Communicates relevant information to Fire Services personnel and the public in accordance with departmental procedures and applicable regulations. Coordinates with personnel across various Fire Division service centers to support efficient emergency response operations. Maintains situational awareness of ongoing incidents and adjusts responses as necessary to support effective emergency management.

Responsibilities

OTHER FUNCTIONS:

Performs other functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:


Must be able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing to effectively obtain and record information from callers. Must be able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, including operating a telephone system such as a, Teletypewriter/Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD) system used to communicate with individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech impairments and a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system used to track and manage emergency calls and response units, a radio console, paging system, video monitoring equipment, and power-fail transfer systems to monitor emergency events and unit status. Requires prolonged periods of sitting while maintaining a high level of focus and attention to detail.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:


Work is performed in a highly secured, enclosed dispatch environment with assigned workstation. The work environment is fast-paced and includes continuous background noise from multiple simultaneous communications. Must be available to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating days off.

Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent. Must be at least nineteen (19) years of age by the starting date of the hiring class for which he/she is considered. Must be able to type at least 35 words per minute and complete a battery of job-related testing. Must possess the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials Telecommunicator 1&2 (APCO TC) certification or the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Telecommunicator I certification or equivalent. Must possess the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) certification in Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) Training or equivalent. Must possess a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. Working experience with computers preferred.