Communications Operators must respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance and information. They must provide dispatch and communication support services for police, fire, emergency, and related services.

Essential job functions within a Communications Operator's job description will likely detail the daily duties associated with the position, which may include the following:

• Operate a multi-line telephone console system, alerting system, and TDD system for the deaf and hearing-impaired
• Translate information to the appropriate codes
• Determine and assign the level of priority of the call and enter the data into a computer-aided dispatch system for radio dispatch purposes
• Perform crisis intervention services
• Ask vital questions for emergency response
• Monitor and operate a radio console and computer equipment
• Receive and respond to a variety of emergency and non-emergency services and complaints
• Ask questions to interpret, analyze and anticipate the caller’s situation as to resolve problems, provide information, dispatch emergency services, or refer callers to other agencies
• Dispatch and coordinate the responses of public safety agencies
• Identify appropriate number and type of equipment or apparatus to dispatch
• Enters and modifies information into local, state and national computer databases
• Monitor and respond to a variety of technical systems and alarms

Required Knowledge

A Communications Operator must generally have knowledge in:

• Customer Service: Candidates must have knowledge of providing excellent customer service.
• Geography: Candidates must understand jurisdictional boundaries, as well as thoroughfares, landmarks, public buildings and waterways within the jurisdiction.

Required Skills

• The ability to develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with fellow employees, representatives from other departments, and supervisors
• The ability to use logic and reasoning to reach conclusions and approaches to problems
• The ability to use judgment and decision-making skills to evaluate situations, establish priorities, and resolve matters
• The ability to think quickly
• The ability to work under stressful situations
• The ability to actively listen and communicate effectively through clear speech and hearing
• The ability to follow instructions
• The ability to write clearly and spell correctly
• The ability to establish priorities and pass on information as needed

Minimum Requirements for Employment

Candidates must be at least 18 years old, and they must possess a high school diploma or GED. Possess a valid driver’s license and to not have any felony convictions.

Candidates for these positions must also expect to undergo a background investigation that meets all local, state and federal requirements, as well as a drug screen.

The completion of a comprehensive training program within the first two years of employment. This includes classroom training and extensive, on-the-job training.