Communication Officer I

The purpose of this classification is to answer and process emergency and non-emergency calls through the E-911 Communications Center. This is an entry level position. Incumbents in this classification work under the direct supervision of a seasoned Communications Officer and serve primarily as call takers; but individuals may spend time learning the dispatch consoles for Police, Sheriff, and Marshal's Office

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Answers incoming emergency and non-emergency voice and Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) calls, determines nature of call and correct signal and/or code; enters information into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System; and advises supervisors of all priority calls.
• Provides lifesaving and pre-arrival instructions to callers; remains available to callers while units are in route; and checks medical status.
• Forwards information to the appropriate emergency response units or agencies: and verifies and updates information through Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
• Utilizes a computer to enter and retrieve data: sorts and files records; and assists callers with information relating to police, fire, and Emergency Medical Services activity.
• Identifies incorrect or outdated information contained in the CAD: prepares and completes update forms for changes of street names and/or addresses; and submits to supervisor for verification.
• Testifies in court as needed; may be called to testify as the owner of a voice on an E-911 recording and/or to be a witness that a call was received.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature or level as required.

Education: High school diploma or GED

Experience: One year of work experience that shows an ability to maintain steady employment in any field

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of telephone procedures and equipment
• Proficiency in working within deadlines, interpersonal communication, and report preparation
• Demonstrated ability to perform multiple tasks at one time
• Good communication skills, both oral and written
• Demonstrated ability to work independently
• Considerable knowledge of operations of governmental departments and procedures, governmental and departmental policies, and applicable state and local rules and regulations
• Strong understanding of the factors relating to crisis intervention and calming techniques
• Skill in the operation of computers
• Excellent communication skills both written and oral
• Strong people skills
• Type at least 30 wpm

Licensing/Certification:

• Must obtain the following within six months of hire: Georgia Basic Communications Officer Certification, GCIC and NCIC Certifications, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Certification, Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) Certification.
• Certification on all dispatch consoles must be obtained within 12 months
• Possess or have the ability to obtain Communications Officer I training

OTHER

• This position will require staff call up in an emergency situation.
• This is a 12hour shift position to include weekends.
• Typing Test - Passing of 30 WPM must be met to be considered for this position.

PERFORMANCE APTITUDES:

• Data Utilization: Requires the ability to determine, calculate, tabulate, or summarize data/information, following a prescribed plan requiring the exercise of some judgment. Includes performing subsequent actions in relation to these computational operations.
• Human Interaction: Requires the ability to work with and apply principles of persuasion and/or influence over others to coordinate programs or activities of a project and resolve typical problems associated with the responsibilities of the job.
• Equipment: Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions.
• Verbal: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference, descriptive, and/or advisory data and information.
• Math: Occasionally requires the ability to perform basic calculations.
• Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to apply principles of rational systems; to interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form; and to exercise independent judgment to adopt or modify methods and standards to meet variations in assigned objectives.
• Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving broader aspects of organizational programs and operations, moderately unstable situations, or the direction, control and planning of an entire program or set of programs.
• Physical Abilities: Tasks require the ability to perform sedentary to light work which may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.
• Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
• Environmental Factors: Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.