Police Communications Officer

Police Communications Officer

Under the supervision of the Communications supervisor and on-duty shift supervisor, the PCO maintains strict access to the Security Operations Center; protects and makes inquiries about Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) database terminals, and dispatches police and emergency services utilizing multiple radios and computer-aided dispatch equipment. Monitors and manipulates closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras and surveillance equipment. Upholds the values of the GPA to promote Safety, Integrity, Respect, Community, Creativity and Opportunity. Promotes a safe work environment by participating in safety initiatives and reporting unsafe conditions and behaviors.

Monitors radio frequencies, set priorities among incoming events, and dispatches the police to necessary locations using both radios and computers. Utilizes radio contact to keep the accurate status of the exact location of equipment and employees. Receives and responds to emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, tenants, customers, and other law enforcement agencies, via telephone and radio systems and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems. Processes and evaluates information received, prioritize calls, and dispatches required units and/or agencies for response. Monitors and coordinates police unit activity and assignments via police radio frequencies and CAD. Maintains status and locations of department public safety personnel. Utilizes technology such as computers, radio systems, telephones, fax machines, access control systems, camera (CCTV) systems, and other communication equipment. Creates and maintains automated or manual logs of public safety communications activity. Accesses and enters sensitive data in local/state/national databases as necessary for investigative purposes, i.e. Georgia Criminal Information Center (GCIC) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Maintains appropriate security and confidentiality of information created or encountered in the performance of assigned duties. Keeps informed of departmental regulations, policies, and procedures. Perform the duties of a PSO when needed, if properly trained and worked in that job class previously.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Must be able to effectively articulate facts, alarms, intrusion alerts, observations, or incidences orally, through written reports, radio, or other electronic media. Must have legible handwriting; able to type and use computerized word processing and scanning equipment; able to compare, discriminate, articulate, and formulate information accurately, and arrive at sound and reasonable decisions often under pressure; able to give instructions and information clearly, decisively, and concisely; must be able to remain composed and conduct behavior in a professional manner during difficult or stressful situations. Can write clearly and spell correctly. Skilled in observing situations analytically and objectively and relaying details accurately. The ability to interact and communicate effectively and professionally with the GPA staff on all levels of administration including immediate supervisor, management, and co-workers required. Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends. Must be able to successfully complete the Basic Communications Officer (BCO) course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. Only one (1) opportunity to successfully complete this course is authorized per candidate. Must be able to successfully complete training requirements for GCIC terminal operator certification and maintain current certification.

Education Required High School Diploma or equivalent required Required Must be able to pass a GPA background investigation prior to employment Licenses & Certifications TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential Required Driver's License - Valid state driver's license Required