JOB The Public Safety Communications Officer I serves as the first line defense in emergencies by providing critical support to residents and visitors in distress. This position is responsible for receiving, processing, transmitting and conveying public safety information to dispatchers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services and emergency management personnel based on the caller’s location and the nature of the call, all while utilizing computer computer-aided dispatch (CAD), radio systems, and maintaining detailed call logs; essentially acting as the crucial communications link between the public and first responders within St. Lucie County. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Call Handling:
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Handle multiple calls and tasks simultaneously, prioritizing critical incidents and responding to requests from public safety teams.
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Operate communication equipment, including radio systems, telephones, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, and other tools necessary for effective communication.
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Follow established protocols and procedures for dispatching, handling emergencies, and ensuring compliance with public safety standards and regulations.
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Receive and prioritize emergency calls (911) and non-emergency calls, accurately gathering information and assessing the situation to determine appropriate response actions and prioritize based on urgency and severity, ensuring rapid response to life-threatening situations.
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Provide advice and guidance to callers who are in danger or need immediate assistance, while emergency responders are enroute.
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Handle non-emergency requests from the public, including directing individuals to appropriate resources or providing information related to public safety services.
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Remain calm and focused under pressure during high-stress situations, ensuring clear and accurate communication during emergencies.
Dispatching Services:
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Determine the appropriate response units (police, fire, and EMS) based on the nature of the emergency and dispatch the units, ensuring timely and appropriate resources are sent to the scene.
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Monitor the progress of dispatched units and provide updates as needed.
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Maintain continuous communication with public safety personnel, providing real-time updates, information, and ensure proper closure of incidents.
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Coordinate emergency response efforts with other public safety agencies and outside organizations (e.g., utility companies, hospitals).
Data Entry and Recordkeeping:
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Document all calls, incidents, and activities accurately and completely for record-keeping and reporting purposes.
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Accurately enter incident information into computer systems, ensuring that all calls and actions are documented properly for legal and operational purposes.
Protocols and Procedures:
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Follow established guidelines and procedures for handling emergency calls and dispatching units.
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Demonstrate comprehension of general liability concepts and terms as well as a comprehension of specific liability issues associated with the position including the most notable areas of litigation in public safety communications.
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Adhere to applicable local, state, tribal or federal statutes or codes as appropriate.
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Comprehension and application of the division’s confidentiality policies and rules regarding the discussion or release of information acquired in the workplace to the public, the media, or others.
Shift Work:
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Work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as 24/7 emergency services are required.
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Work schedules include 12 hour rotating shifts and can include up to 16 hours.
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Will be required to work during declarations of emergencies and disasters without notice or timeframe.
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May be mandatory to work additional days or hours outside regular scheduled days or hours.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds occasionally. Primarily involves sitting, with occasional walking or standing. Requires the ability to use a computer or other equipment while seated for extended periods. May involve fine motor skills for tasks such as typing or handling small items.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS:
Work is primarily conducted in a climate-controlled office setting. The role requires prolonged periods of sitting and extensive use of computers and other office equipment, which may lead to eye strain and repetitive motion injuries. Employees may frequently engage in meetings and teamwork, requiring effective communication in shared spaces. The position involves minimal physical exertion, primarily consisting of desk work, although occasional movement within the office may be required. Employees will work under standard office lighting and may experience moderate noise levels from office equipment and conversations.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES:
County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator. During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
ADA STATEMENT:
A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
EEO STATEMENT:
St. Lucie County BOCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Pay Grade C1
PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 2 background screening which includes fingerprinting.
