OPERATIONS COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST TRAINEE - IPR#46879

This position is accountable for performing the operational functions of the Traffic Management/ Communications Center (TMCC) by receiving, accurately recording, and transmitting messages and information regarding district wide highway and bridge conditions, incidents, and traffic delays to bureau field personnel, emergency agencies, and to the public. 

Radio and Telephone Messages handled annually: 6,000+

Highway Condition Reports processed annually: 300+

Highway Incident Reports prepared annually: 75

This position reports to the Services & Development Technician. No subordinates report to this position. 

The incumbent normally works outside regular 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. office hours and will be required to report to work at any time during emergency situations; operates the radio, telephone, computers, facsimile machine, and terminals in the TMCC; and documents all communications channeled through the TMCC each year.  The high communications traffic volumes, the large number of highway-related incidents, and the size and complexity of the district highway and bridge system complicate the task of responding promptly, of accurately recording, and effectively transmitting all types of communications and information received by the TMCC.  The incumbent provides communications support with the department's district radio communications system, paging system, as well as the telephone system in relaying requests and other traffic information with various outside emergency facilities.  He/she provides the initial and primary communications coordination and support for relaying messages and requests, using the department's districtwide radio system, districtwide paging system, and direct telephone support between the various district bureaus, primarily the Bureau of Operations.  The incumbent, often working alone, is the central focal point for all types of highway-related information and communications during assigned shifts and for disseminating this information to bureau personnel, emergency personnel, and to the public. 

Typical problems encountered by this position include those associated with evaluating and interpreting the significance and extent of incidents and hazardous situations, making a prompt determination of preliminary action to be taken, determining proper notification of responsible persons, and implementing the proper standard operating procedure(s).  The greatest challenge of this position is the proper use of all changeable message boards and communications equipment, the collection of accurate and timely weather-related highway condition data, the maintenance of accurate logs of all messages received and transmitted, the accuracy and timeliness in processing Highway Incident Reports, and emergency operations. 

Under supervision, the incumbent personally operates the radio, telephone, computers, facsimile machine, and other electronic equipment which support the department's TMCC.  All communications and information flow must be accurately documented.  The incumbent works within federal and department guidelines governing communications and established standard operating procedures but is expected to exercise considerable independent judgment in responding in a professional manner to many, varied emergency situations. 

The incumbent has frequent contact with personnel in the Bureau of Operations, the district offices, and district field personnel involved in the maintenance, traffic, and construction activities of the department.  In addition, the incumbent has contact with, local public officials and police, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. 

The effectiveness of this position is measured by the ability to receive, accurately record, and properly transmit Highway Road Condition Reports, Highway Incident Reports, emergencies, and other responses to messages and information transmitted through the TMCC.  The accurate and thorough documentation of all communications and information received and the dissemination of information to proper department staff, executives, operating units, and outside agencies is the second measure of position effectiveness. 

1.    Operates the radio, telephone, computers, traveler information devices, facsimile machine, and other communications equipment in accordance with established standard operating procedures and Federal Communications Commission Regulations.
2.    Receives, records, and transmits all Communications Center contacts concerning highway incidents and emergencies in a timely manner.
3.    Obtains and disseminates information concerning highway conditions, restrictions, and construction-related limitations.
4.    Enacts emergency procedures to rectify hazardous conditions on state highways.
5.    Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules.  Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
6.    Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements 

•    Education/Experience:

• Completion of two years of college OR
• Four years of experience working in an emergency call or dispatch center in which the incumbent dispatched personnel or resources and generated incident or call taking reports.

•    Ability to wear a headset for radio and telephone functions
•    Ability to work assigned shifts, weekends, and holidays

Position Desirables

•    Two years of college with coursework in business, public relations, or communications.
•    Strong office skills with computers, radios, telephones, and other related office equipment.
•    Working knowledge of the function and application of public relations and public safety when dealing with incidents and hazardous situations.
•    Ability to maintain self-control under stressful conditions.
•    Ability to properly arrange material for transmission and to determine priority of messages.
•    Ability to maintain harmonious relationships with employees, agency officials, and the general public.
•    Strong oral and written communication skills.