Communications Officer - FT

Communications Officer

This position answers emergency and non-emergency calls for service and dispatches appropriate personnel. This position is responsible for maintaining and updating the FCIC/NCIC databases, amongst others. An incumbent in this position may be designated "Senior Communications Officer."

Examples of duties include:

• Receives emergency calls; prioritizes and enters information into CAD system.
• Dispatches appropriate personnel in response to both emergency and non-emergency calls.
• Accesses FCIC/NCIC databases, and other law enforcement computer systems, to provide information to field personnel.
• Make entries and updates to FCIC/NCIC databases related to stolen vehicles, stolen property, missing and wanted persons, etc.
• Relays and coordinates instructions, precautions, and questions to and from Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical personnel.
• Maintains and files logs of all calls and dispatches.
• Receives and processes complaints and questions from the general public.
• Provides information and assistance to callers.
• Receives and transmits messages between city departments and between the city and external agencies.
• Monitors surveillance cameras.
• Maintains and FCIC/NCIC certification.
• Performs related duties.

Typical qualifications include:

• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.
• Requirement to successfully pass department training program.
• Possession of, or ability to readily obtain, appropriate FCIC/NCIC certification.
• Completion of the National Dispatcher Selection Test (NDST) and must obtain a minimum score of 70%.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, Florida Department of Health Dispatcher certification.

Supplemental information includes:

• Knowledge of emergency communications principles and practices.
• Knowledge of FCIC/NCIC policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of emergency dispatch policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of radio and telecommunications equipment.
• Skill in the use of computers and job-related software programs.
• Skill in planning, organizing, analyzing, decision making, and problem solving.
• Skill in making decisions in high pressure and emergency situations.
• Skill in public relations.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

The work consists of related emergency communications duties. The necessity of responding to unforeseen and emergency situations contributes to the complexity of the work.

Contacts are typically with department personnel, representatives of emergency services agencies, towing companies, taxi companies, and the general public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and motivate persons.

The work is typically performed in an office. The employee may be exposed to noise.