What are the responsibilities and job description for the Telecommunications Officer position at Westmoreland County?
Westmoreland County Department of Public Safety / 9-1-1 Center is accepting applications for the position of Temporary Trainee - Telecommunication Officer (TCO). This position is responsible for receiving and dispatching emergency calls within Westmoreland County and requires excellent communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and an overall understanding of the emergency systems. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Applicants with prior Police, Fire, or EMS communications experience or prior military service are encouraged to apply; this background is not mandatory. All benefits related to the full-time position are available after a 30-day probation.
Successful applicants must pass a dispatch-oriented performance test (TestGenius), an oral interview, a background check, a physical exam, eye testing, and a drug screening to be considered for the class. Class training includes 9-1-1 Call Taking, Fire Dispatch, Police Dispatch, and EMS Dispatch.
Out of County Residency Waived
$1,500 Sign-On Bonus for Eligible Applicants
Starting Training Rate: $20.25 / Hour
Starting TCO Rate: $25.65 / Hour
The TCO training class and accelerated class (if applicable) will begin on January 25, 2027. Westmoreland County has waived the Residency Policy for this opportunity. In-person testing will be conducted by appointment only upon application review. Passing candidates will be interviewed based on a passing exam score.
About UsA career with Westmoreland County offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents while serving one of Pennsylvania's most vibrant and growing communities.
County employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, a competitive retirement plan, generous paid time off, and opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. We are committed to supporting our workforce through programs and resources that promote both personal and professional success.
Westmoreland County fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work environment where dedication, integrity, innovation, and public service are valued and recognized. With diverse career opportunities across numerous departments and unions, employees can build rewarding careers while contributing to the health, safety, and well-being of our community.
Join a team that is committed to excellence in public service and dedicated to making a positive difference every day. Westmoreland County is proud to attract and retain talented professionals who are passionate about serving others and helping shape the future of our region.
Follow the link below to learn more about all that Westmoreland County has to offer:
https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/2377/You-Belong-Here
Duties and ResponsibilitiesESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:
- Answer and process 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency telephone calls in a professional, courteous, and efficient manner.
- Obtain accurate and complete information from callers by following Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA)approved emergency dispatch protocols and structured call-taking procedures to assess, prioritize, and determine the appropriate emergency response.
- Dispatch law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other public safety resources using Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio communications systems, and other emergency communications technology.
- Monitor multiple radio channels simultaneously and maintain effective communications with field personnel.
- Enter, update, and maintain accurate records in the CAD system and other public safety databases.
- Provide pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions to callers in accordance with approved emergency dispatch protocols.
- Coordinate emergency responses involving multiple agencies during major incidents, severe weather events, disasters, planned events, and other large-scale emergencies including mutual aid incidents.
- Maintain situational awareness of responder locations, unit status, and resource availability to ensure efficient deployment of emergency resources.
- Document all communications, actions taken, and incident information accurately, in a timely manner, and in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
- Maintain the confidentiality and security of sensitive, protected, and criminal justice information in accordance with applicable federal, state, and departmental regulations.
- Participate in quality assurance reviews, training programs, performance improvement initiatives, and continuing education activities as required.
- May be required to report to work during emergencies, disasters, severe weather events, or other situations requiring emergency staffing.
- Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively by telephone, radio, and in person.
- Operate the Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and other criminal justice information systems in accordance with established policies and regulations.
- Successfully complete and maintain all training, certifications, and continuing education requirements established by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) under the 911 Emergency Communication Services Act (35 Pa. C.S. §§ 5301–5399), as well as any additional certifications required by the Westmoreland County Department of Public Safety.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To do this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
A. EDUCATION/TRAINING:
1. High School Diploma / GED equivalent
B. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
1. Minimum 1 year of public contact, customer service and/or clerical work
2. Ability to accurately type a minimum of 35 Net WPM
3. Computer knowledge using Windows based programs
4. Ability to spell accurately
5. Ability to sit or stand while on the telephone and using multiple computers monitors for 12-16 hours per day
6. Ability to multi-task using the telephone, radio and computer systems
7. Ability to react in time-sensitive, stressful and critical situations
8. Ability to accurately follow directions in a fast-paced environment
9. Work nights, weekends, holidays
C. WORK EXPERIENCE:
Previous experience (but not required) in police, fire, or EMS communications; prior military service; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties outlined in this job description.
D. ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Valid Driver’s License
2. Must acquire and maintain NCIC access throughout employment
3. Ability to multi-task during stressful situations
4. Capable of accurately typing minimum 35 WPM
5. Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays
6. Ability to follow directions in a fast-paced environment
7. Capable of reacting promptly under time sensitive situations
8. Familiar with Windows based operating programs
9. Ability to sit / stand for 12–16-hour increments
10. Ability to clearly communicate with police, fire, EMS personnel, partner agencies, and members of the public
Contact UsIf you need assistance, please contact us at jobs@westmorelandcountypa.gov
Westmoreland County maintains a policy where qualified applicants are hired on the basis of fitness and merit without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information, or veteran status.Salary : $20 - $26