The City of Ottumwa is establishing a civil service eligibility list for the position of 911 Communications Specialist. This civilian role plays a vital part in the safety of our community by serving as the first point of contact for individuals requesting police, fire, or EMS assistance. Communications Specialists receive, interpret, and process incoming calls, quickly determining the nature and urgency of each situation in accordance with established procedures and training. They accurately relay critical information and coordinate the dispatch of public safety units using a variety of communication systems. During each shift, this position works closely with and receives functional supervision from the on-duty patrol supervisor to ensure effective and timely emergency response.
The City of Ottumwa is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with applicable state and federal law, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the City.
Training / Education and Experience Requirements
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18 years of age or older
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High School Diploma or GED
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Experience dealing with the public in some form of a stressful situation
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State of Iowa Dept of Public Safety Iowa Online Warrants and Articles and National Crime Information Center certification.
- Required within 6 months of appointment
- State of Iowa Law Enforcement Academy 40-hour basic tele-communicator school.
- Required within 12 months of appointment
- Special Requirements (due to sensitivity of information accessed - NCIC information):
- Submit to a fingerprints-based records/background check
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Not be addicted to drugs and/or alcohol
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Not have pled guilty to an aggravated misdemeanor or felony
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Not have been previously certified and had that certification revokeD
Each employee is required to complete eight (8) hours of Dispatch In-Service training each year.
Skill / Abilities Requirements
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Ability to speak clearly and concisely;
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Ability to operate telecommunications equipment;
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Ability to make effective decisions in highly stressful situations;
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Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative;
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Ability to learn and maintain knowledge of the geography of the Department's service area;
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Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
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Knowledge of the general principles of computer system operation;
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Ability to accurately and rapidly enter computer data;
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Ability to greet the public courteously to obtain information, give information, or to make understandable explanations of regulations;
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Ability to perform multiple tasks concurrently;
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Ability to prioritize activities and/or assignments;
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Knowledge of criminal justice information systems (NCIC, NLETS, etc.) rules, regulations, and requirements;
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Knowledge of Departmental policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and General Orders;
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Knowledge of FCC radio transmission rules and regulations.
ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF ELIGIBILITY LIST
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12:59 P.M. Sunday July 19, 2026
APPLICANTS WHO MEET THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS WILL BE CONTACTED FOR TESTING
The City of Ottumwa offers a fantastic benefits package.
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11 paid holidays
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Paid-time off (accrual begins immediately)
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Health Insurance (Including Medical, Dental and Vision) - eligible the 1st of the month after hire
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Health and Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
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Yearly Free Health Screenings
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Life Insurance
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IPERS retirement - City contributes 9.44%
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Longevity payments after 5 years of service
