Public Safety Telecommunicator

Salary: $24.74 – $32.36 Hourly

Position Summary:

Public Safety Telecommunicators receive emergency calls from the public, determines immediacy of needs, and dispatches emergency services accordingly. Provides skillful, prompt, and efficient operation of various communication resources to maintain efficient communication between the public, law enforcement agencies, and public service agencies in the county.

Essential Functions:

1. Provide communication support to Sheriff’s Deputies and law enforcement agencies operating within the county. Assesses each request to quickly determine whether the caller requires an emergency response, routine response, or no additional service.

2. Interacts via phone with members of the public during crisis situations; often dealing with irate people and receiving potentially graphic information pertaining to incidents occurring. Uses interpersonal skills to build rapport via phone as a means to gain cooperation and de-escalate calls.

3. Initiates and completes all records (ICR’s) associated with incidents per policy. Maintains a log of all radio, telephone, and alarm calls.

4. Prioritizes requests for service based on their state of emergency; disseminates relevant information to the proper responder. Determines what, if any, other equipment or other agencies are needed to respond. Contacts other agencies for backup or response in a timely manner.

5. Maintains a log of all radio, telephone/text, and alarm calls. Receives and transmits messages over several communication systems with numerous agencies. Operates and maintains a variety of public safety communications equipment and programs including Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), multi-line 911 emergency phone system, Multi-Line non-emergency phone system, multi-channel radio system, and records management system. Monitors locations of patrol units always. Uses location, status of current activity, and information regarding road conditions when assigning calls. Follows established safety response protocol if a patrol unit does not maintain expected contact and cannot be reached.

6. Researches incident related records – such as plates, licenses, parties involved, and criminal records on behalf of patrol units when requested. Responsible for compliance with the Data Practices Act and other related laws and regulations in the Communications Center.

7. Monitors weather conditions, watches, and warnings and communicates disaster information to appropriate personnel.

8. Operates a variety of programs including radio, phone, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management System (LETG), Portals MNJICS operation systems and numerous other programs in the Communication Center.

9. Maintains the state and national computer files for Mille Lacs County on missing persons, stolen vehicles, stolen articles, warrants, and other required areas; maintains and updates database with 911 addresses.

Requirements:

• High school diploma and one year of prior experience working with the public; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• CJIS Terminal Operator Certification and Telecommunicator CPR Certification required within one year of hire.
• Class D Driver’s License.
• Must successfully complete a criminal history background check.
• Prior training or experience in 911 dispatching is preferred.