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Arlington County's Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management has multiple Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) vacancies within its Emergency Communications Center (ECC). This is an exciting opportunity to work with a progressive and forward-thinking team. The Arlington County ECC has been recognized as a leader in providing critical emergency communications services through innovative measures, most recently receiving a Virginia Association of Counties award for its pioneering work in deploying remote call-taking, remote fire/EMS dispatch, and remote supervision from employees’ homes. It is also among the first in the nation to employee AI to assist in reducing non-emergency call volume.
The Emergency Communications Center provides critical information and support to PUBLIC SAFETY departments within Arlington County. to learn more about Arlington County's Emergency Communications Center (ECC).
Responsibilities include:
- Answering and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
- Determining the priority of incoming calls and accurately classifying them for dispatch.
- Providing critical information, support, and guidance to the public and other first responders.
- Entering and updating information into statewide and national databases while reviewing for completeness and accuracy.
Selection Criteria
Career Ladder as described below:
Minimum requirements for each skills-based level are below.
PST I:
- Completion of the requirements for graduation from a standard senior high school or vocational school, or the equivalent.
- One year of experience providing direct public contact, problem resolution and using computers with a minimum typing speed of 25 wpm.
- Completion within six months: certifications as a Basic Dispatcher, a Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Operator Level A, Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Automated External Defibrillation (AED), and CPR; demonstrated proficiency in handling 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service, teletype operations and/or police administrative dispatch operations.
- All of the above (PST I) plus certification as a police dispatcher or as a fire/emergency medical service dispatcher; and demonstrated experience and proficiency as a PST I.
- All of the above (PST I and PST II) plus certification as a police dispatcher and a fire/emergency medical service dispatcher; and demonstrated experience and proficiency as a PST II.
- Working in a primary or secondary PSAP;
- Police, Fire/Rescue, or Emergency Medical Service;
- Telecommunications or use of a multiline telephone system;
- Working with individuals in stressful situations; and/or
- Entering information provided orally into an automated system.
Special Requirements
HIRING PROCESS:
The hiring process includes a variety of examinations and interviews.
Steps in the Hiring Process
- Apply online at arlingtonva.us/careers. Complete and pass online written examination.
- (Download PDF reader) for the test preparation guide.
- Attend virtual interview. Undergo background investigation.
- (Download PDF reader) for background application form.
- Undergo polygraph examination.
- Participate in virtual informational presentation (optional).
Additional Information
Applicants should also note the following potential disqualifiers:
- Engaging in any activity that would support a felony conviction.
- Incomplete or inaccurate information on the background investigation questionnaire.
- Recent or current drug use.
Work hours: This position will work a 12-hour shift with rotating days off consisting of either scheduled day or midnight shifts. Employees are assigned to shifts based on the needs of the department.
Employees are required to work weekends and holidays, dependent upon the rotation of the shift to which an employee is assigned. Shift schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the department and to accommodate mandatory training.
Salary:
- The base salary of a PST I level starts at $27.88/hour.
- Applicants with prior Emergency Communications or Public Safety experience may be eligible to start at a higher salary than entry-level dependent on type and length of experience.
- Base pay is supplemented by holiday pay and night differential when applicable.
- Overtime opportunities/compensation may be available based on the needs of the communications center.
Applicants who have questions or need assistance with the application may telephone (703) 228-3500 or visit the Human Resources Department. Our staff will be happy to work with you to enter your application into the system. Public access computers are available at all County Libraries, and in the Human Resources Department.
The examination process for this position may include: (1) training and experience evaluation; (2) written and oral examination; (3) personal interview; (4) performance test/work sample; and/or (5) physical examination.
Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process. Please call the ADA Coordinator at 703-228-3559 (voice) or email pers@arlingtonva.us.
