Communications Officer I / 911 Dispatcher

Job Summary

Answers emergency and non-emergency calls from the public; determines nature of the call; assigns priority to call; simultaneously enters information into computer. Dispatches the appropriate agency (e. g., police, fire, medical) to the scene. Gives life-saving and pre-arrival instructions to callers in emergency medical situations. Maintains contact with callers and response units in order to give current information. Performs other duties as assigned. All work is performed in accordance with established departmental policies under close supervision by a supervisor, with reviews performance through observation, reports, and results achieved.

Requirements/Responsibilities:

• Answer multiple phone lines; assess incoming 911 emergency and non-emergency calls. Enter call data into Computer Aided Dispatch system.
• Ability to multiple task simultaneously and take appropriate action when represented with a routine call or a stressful life/death situation; ability to remain calm under all circumstances.
• Monitor and/or communicate effectively and coherently over all radio channels.
• Dispatch appropriate agency units; relay traffic to multiple units and notify air medical transport, ambulances, wreckers, utilities, chaplains, etc.
• Monitors multiple radio frequencies, computer monitors and cameras while answering/processing telephone calls or other radio frequencies.
• Exhibit good judgment and discretion and adhere to guidelines when processing sensitive and/or confidential information.
• Enter/Retrieve data into/from GCIC/NCIC and Computer Aided Dispatch.
• Locate, maintain, save and/or clear files/records within database and record information manually into appropriate logs when computer is out of service.
• Run criminal and driver histories and computer background checks.
• Handle inquiries on driver’s licenses, vehicle identification numbers, warrants/summons, stolen articles/property, wanted/missing persons and guns.
• Operate telecommunications device for the deaf, Master Street and Address Guide.
• Perform administrative support duties, such as shredding, replenishing forms, changing computer paper, filing, faxing, etc.
• Other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum High School diploma or GED. Prefer some college.
• Must be of good moral character.
• Must have no felony convictions.
• Must be willing to accept shift duty, day or night.
• Must pass a strict, thorough, background investigation.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and satisfactory motor vehicle record.
• Must be able to meet the requirements of POST to become a Certified Communications Officer within six months from the date of employment.
• Must be able to meet the requirements of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations to become certified to use the Georgia Crime Information & National Crime Information Center network within six months of the date of employment.

Skills/Abilities

• Knowledge of or the ability to learn the geography of the County and the location of important buildings and areas.
• Knowledge of or the ability to learn general communications practices, federal, state and local laws especially those governing the use of communication devices and legal procedures; and the rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the Catoosa County Board of Commissioners.
• Ability to learn emergency service methods, procedures, techniques and apply such knowledge to specific situations.
• Ability to work under high stress situations, including life threatening situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively in the English language, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to read and comprehend instructions, agency correspondence, policies, procedures and evidentiary documentation.
• Ability to respond to a variety of complex situations and take appropriate actions based on facts and circumstances of the situation.
• Ability to deal professionally and fairly in interactions with the general public.
• Ability to proficiently use a computer with Windows, document and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to use miscellaneous office equipment such as a copier, fax and calculator.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work 12 hour shifts as assigned (7:00am – 7:00pm or 7:00pm – 7:00am).

PLEASE NOTE:
1) All inquiries and applications should be obtained from the Reception Area, Catoosa County Governmental Building located at 800 LaFayette Street, Ringgold, GA.

2) Current employees wishing to apply for a transfer are expected to complete an application and will be notified by Personnel if chosen for an interview.

3) Post offer negative drug test required. Catoosa County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.07 - $19.19 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Night shift
• On call
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person