Communications Officer

Kearney, NE
Buffalo County Sheriff

Position Summary:

Under general supervision, a Communications Officer is responsible for operation of a multiple frequency emergency radio system, receives requests for emergency service response via the enhanced 911 phone system, dispatches emergency equipment and personnel from law enforcement, fire and emergency medical agencies within Buffalo County, operates a teletype system terminal with the Nebraska and national law enforcement teletype networks. Maintains accurate records of communications activities as required, and conducts equipment tests as required. Uses on a daily basis a computer to record and log information.

Essential Functions:

  • Receives calls via the emergency enhanced 911 phone system and non-emergency law enforcement telephone system.
  • Screens and refers calls to the proper city, county, state agencies.
  • Obtains information from callers regarding emergency services requests including fires, medical emergencies, and law enforcement related emergencies.
  • Dispatches appropriate emergency services equipment and personnel within Buffalo County and the communities located within Buffalo County.
  • Maintains records regarding the time, location, and nature of each dispatched call.
  • Maintains the status of all working units as to their in and out of service times.
  • Maintains the status of officers and their welfare through proper communications.
  • Maintains the station logging equipment insuring that all telephone calls and all radio calls are recorded.
  • Operates teletype terminals within the Nebraska and national law enforcement network including the NCIC/NCIS networks.
  • Maintains records of all teletype transactions and insures that NCIC/NCIS protocol is adhered to at all times regarding the security of terminal equipment, records, and dissemination of information

Requirements:

  • Age of 21 years or older.
  • High school graduate or GED.
  • No felony or serious misdemeanor convictions.
  • Must be of good moral character.
  • Must take and pass a drug screen.
  • Must be able to read write and understand the English language.
  • Must successfully pass the Telecommunicator course at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center.
  • Must become certified by the Nebraska State Patrol to operate teletype equipment in conjunction with the NCIC/NCIS teletype network within the first year of employment.