Communications Officer

POSITION SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Communications Supervisor, to receive and transmit routine and emergency calls using communication equipment consisting of radio, telephone, computer input devices or computer aided dispatch units; to perform record keeping; and to do related work as required at the Columbia County Fire Rescue Communication Center (CCFRCC).

Within a framework of established procedures, Communications Officers are assigned full range of dispatching duties involving the use of a variety of communication and office equipment with only occasional instruction or assistance. Assigned duties require the exercise of judgment or choice among possible actions. Incumbents of this class are required to work various shifts.

This class differs from the next higher class of Fire Communications Supervisor at CCFRCC from the latter class having supervisory responsibility. Fire Communications Officers may perform out of class as Fire Communication Supervisor, if needed.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.

• Receives and transmits via radio from mobile units of contracting agencies; maintain a computer log of these calls and their dispositions.
• Answers and makes emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from/to the general public, field personnel and other public safety agencies.
• Coordinates emergency calls and dispatch equipment.
• The Communications Officer shall meet all training requirements as set forth by the department.
• The Communications Officer shall relay necessary information to the Duty Chief, Communications Supervisor, on coming Communications officer and others as needed.
• Operates electronic data terminals.
• Disseminates information to Emergency Operation Centers, Department Operation Centers and Incident Commanders within the Fire Operational Area.
• Completes and submits required documents for each specific type of incident with accuracy.
• The Communications Officer shall perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Standard radio protocols and call-taking procedures.
• Geographical areas of Columbia County.
• Regulations and statutes applicable to public safety communications.
• Operates a two-way radio, and computer aided dispatch terminal.
• Dispatches public safety equipment in a quick and effective manner.
• Speaks clearly and concisely in a well-modulated voice.
• Reacts with sound judgment under stress and emergency situations while doing several tasks simultaneously.
• Responds to the public with tact.
• Directs emergency vehicles using maps, local area knowledge and other tools that are available.
• Writes in a clear, concise and legible manner.

DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• NIMS Compliant (as required by national standards, must be obtained in 6 months).
• P.O.S.T. Certified Communications Officer (must be obtained within 6 months).
• Must be capable of multitasking while under heavy stress.
• Must have good knowledge of Windows based programs.
• Must have adequate typing skills.

A combination of education and/or work experience may be substituted for minimum requirements.