Telecommunications Specialist

Job Summary

Receive incoming emergency 911 calls and dispatch appropriate emergency equipment and personnel. Input information into the computer and perform research as requested. Monitor radio channels. Provide accurate and appropriate information as needed.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

This information is intended to be descriptive of the principle duties and responsibilities of the position. The following examples do not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent.

1. Receive and process emergency 911 calls by answering incoming calls, gathering information, dispatching appropriate emergency equipment and personnel, and remain on the line as necessary to offer appropriate responses and information. Provide accurate and appropriate information as needed.
2. Input information into the computer by logging all radio traffic and calls for service and generating short reports.
3. Perform research by using TLETS and other computers to retrieve information requested by officers.
4. Perform other duties as may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Experience, and Abilities:

• Possession of a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Possession of a valid Texas Class C driver's license.
• Possession of a valid TCIC/NCIC Certification, or obtain within six months of date of hire.
• Possession of a valid TLETS/NLETS Communication Certification, or obtain within one year of date of hire.
• One-year experience as a police/fire/EMS dispatcher, communications specialist, or any comparable position preferred.
• Type a minimum of 50 words per minute.
• Computer and related software, TLETS computer, radio equipment, telephone, fax, copier, printer.
• Ability to work calmly in stressful situations.
• Ability to give and receive messages via telecommunications equipment clearly and effectively, and use sound judgment.
• Ability to obtain required certification.
• Ability to work assigned shift, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance

Physical and Environmental Conditions

Duties are generally performed in an office setting. Some light work requiring occasional lifting objects up to 20 pounds to move object. Must be able to sit for long periods of time. Work may also require stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending, standing, walking, pushing, and pulling.