Communications Officer/Dispatcher

Job Description

Job Description

CAPITAL REGION AIRPORT COMMISSION

COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER / DISPATCHER

FULL-TIME 

POSTING # 1426

RICHMOND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 

FLSA: Non-Exempt

General Summary: This position is responsible for receiving, processing and relaying emergency and routine communications via radio, telephone, computer (including the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center), alarm devices, and teletype and dispatches police, fire, operations and other Commission departments including mutual aid jurisdictions. Monitors Close Circuit Televisions (CCTV) and performs other related functions. 

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for monitoring the closed circuit (CCTV) televisions.
• Answer internal and external calls while delivering a professional level of customer service. 
• Inputs data accurately into various computer systems. 
• Dispatch officers to emergency and non-emergency calls for police service such as TSA security screening alarms, access control alarms/incidents, disturbances, reports of thefts, and other incidents that may arise on Airport property in accordance with departmental policy.
• Dispatch ARFF (Fire) Department/Emergency Medical Technicians to emergency and non-emergency calls for service such as sick/injured persons, Airfield Alerts, Fire Alarms, Hazmat and other emergency calls. 
• Assist other law enforcement agencies in the performance of their duties related to the Capital Region Airport Commission property. 
• Communicates with other Commission Departments via radio and telephone for maintenance and service requests, complaints, etc. 
• Runs DMV, criminal history and other law enforcement or security related queries as required to assist the police or other Commission staff.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions, analyze and coordinate situations and make decisions rapidly. 
• Monitors airport fire alarm systems for alerts; dispatch appropriate personnel
• Familiar with the operation of all Commission's communications equipment and computer terminal and its direct link-up to other local, state and federal agencies.
• Provides assistance to the airlines, airport tenants/patrons in channeling all requests, emergencies/distress, complaints, etc. 
• Ability to learn and become competent in the use of the Computer Aided Dispatch System and Records Management System.
• Maintain Lost and Found log and assist passengers with items. 
• Performs other projects and duties as assigned which includes providing staff coverage for Communications’ Department

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to prepare effective and concise reports.
• Ability to assimilate knowledge of the airport physical layout.
• Ability to analyze situations quickly and determine the proper course of action.
• Ability to work independently and meet emergency demands.
• Ability to effectively handle multiple tasks.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other Commission personnel, tenants, other organizations and the general public.    
• Ability to perform work with a positive attitude and in a professional manner at all times.

Education:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED required and at least 1 year of related experience preferred. 
• Multi-channel radio system and multi-line phone system experience preferred. 

Special Requirements:

• Ability to speak distinctly and calmly during crisis situations.  
• Ability to obtain and relay accurate information quickly to appropriate personnel under adverse conditions. 
• Vision abilities required including close vison and the ability to adjust and focus.  
• Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• Knowledge of public safety communications practices, procedures, and equipment. 
• Flexible to work any shift assigned, mandatory holidays, weekends and overtime if needed.
• Proficient in Microsoft Officer software and ability to type 35 WPM
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Virginia Motor Vehicle Operators License.
• Ability to obtain and maintain eligibility to hold a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge.
• Must have an active telephone number and may be required to respond to emergency call backs.
• Have no felony or serious misdemeanor convictions. 
• Be able to withstand stress and rigors of administrative and operational demands related to communications and clerical duties as related to this position. 
• Possess the physical dexterity to stretch, reach, lift and sit in order to have access to and operate and control equipment.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to: Communications Supervisor

Directs Work of: None. Individual contributor.

Working Conditions:

Work for extended periods in a restricted access environment. 

Working conditions may result in some physical discomforts and/or moderate exposure to hazards due to temperature, dust, noise and the like.

Disclaimer:

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.  The principal duties and responsibilities enumerated are all essential job functions except for those that begin with the word "May."