GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB
Under limited supervision, performs specialized radio and communications work for the Ashe County Communications Department, participating in the activities of radio dispatchers. Work involves receiving all incoming calls, dispatching applicable personnel, and operating a computer terminal connected to the Division of Criminal Information (DCI), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and the National Weather Service. Work also includes dispatching units or representatives from fire departments, rescue squads, police departments, the Sheriff's Department, Highway Patrol, animal control, etc. Employee is responsible for maintaining Department equipment and records. Employee must exercise considerable tact and poise in obtaining information from distressed persons. The employee must also exercise independent judgment and initiative in receiving messages, responding to emergency situations, and dispatching calls. Reports to the Telecommunicator III.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Uses CAD (computer-aided dispatch system) to log all incidents; receives emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical or other emergency services. Determines the nature and location of the emergency; determines priorities, and dispatches police, fire, ambulance, or other emergency units as necessary and in accordance with established procedures.
- Receives and processes 911 emergency calls, maintains contact with all units on assignment, maintains status and location of police and fire units. Monitors direct emergency alarms, answers non-emergency calls for assistance.
- Enters, updates, and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems. Receives requests for information regarding vehicle registration, driving records and warrants, and provides pertinent data. Monitors several complex public safety radio frequencies.
- Operates a variety of communications equipment, including radio consoles, telephones, and computer systems.
- Sends messages in state and out of state to other law enforcements agencies as needed.
- Runs call history reports as requested by Ashe County Department of Social Services.
- Assists in monitoring the ring doorbell and Safe Haven Baby Box for the Sheriff’s Office.
- Contacts cell phone carriers to find locations of cell phones in missing person cases.
- Contacts companies to tow vehicles at the request of local police departments and the Sheriff’s Office.
- Performs other related work as required.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
High School Diploma or GED; preferred qualifications include 4 years of communications or related experience, 1 year of experience in radio operations and multi-line telephone systems, and supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
Licenses and Certificates:
· Telecommunicator Certification course
· EMD, EFD, EPD
· DCI modules 1-6
· ATAC training
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
The following generally describes the knowledge and abilities required to perform the job or which must be learned within a short period of time to successfully perform the assigned duties.
· Considerable knowledge of the geographical layout of the County, including political subdivisions, location of streets, important buildings, and other landmarks.
· Considerable knowledge of the operation and maintenance of a wide variety of communications equipment. Considerable knowledge of Federal Communication Commission rules and regulations.
· Considerable knowledge of the location and capabilities of available law enforcement and emergency response units.
· General knowledge of the principles of supervision, organization, and administration.
· Skilled in the operation of two-way radio equipment and the Division of Criminal Information terminal and network.
· Ability to elicit information necessary for proper dispatching from persons who may be distressed.
· Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations.
· Ability to instruct, advise and supervise the work of subordinates.
· Ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and politely.
· Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
· Ability to maintain simple but effective files, records, and reports.
· Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.
Pay: From $14.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
