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. JOB DUTIES Monitors radio frequencies, sets 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, prioritizes 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. Performs the duties of a PSO when needed, if properly trained and worked in that job class previously. JOB REQUIREMENTS Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Must be able to effectively articulate facts, alarms, intrusion alerts, observations, or incidents 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. It is required to interact and communicate effectively and professionally with the GPA staff on all levels of administration including immediate supervisor, management, and co-workers. 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 High School Diploma or equivalent 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 Note: This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, job requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require the performance of different or additional tasks. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, and without direct threat to the health or safety of others. Revised: 8/3/2023 #J-18808-Ljbffr