911 Telecommunicator

Catawba County Government•Newton, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Catawba County Emergency Services is looking for reliable, calm, and service-oriented individuals to join our 911 Communications Center as Telecommunicators. As the essential link between the public and emergency responders, Telecommunicators are responsible for answering 911 and non-emergency calls, gathering critical information, and dispatching law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel. This role involves working in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment that requires multitasking, sound judgment, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. This position requires working 12-hour mid-day and night shifts, including weekends, holidays, and overtime, based on the operational needs of the 911 Center. Top applicants will be scheduled to complete a CritiCall test on-site before advancing in the hiring process. Testing will be offered Tuesday, July 14, through Thursday, July 16. Applicants should allow 1-1.5 hours for testing.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent, along with demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties of the position
Must be 18 years of age or older
Ability to pass a CritiCall exam (part of the selection process)
Ability to meet Division of Criminal Information (DCI) standards
Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills
Ability to recognize and comprehend another person's speech, including listening to and understanding information and ideas conveyed through spoken words and sentences
Ability to clearly communicate information and ideas in written and spoken language so that others understand
Ability to transmit, broadcast, switch, control, and operate telecommunications systems and other relevant equipment (e.g., computers, phones, etc.)
Ability to monitor multiple radio talk groups simultaneously and to distinguish between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness
Ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without distraction, and when necessary, switch between two or more activities or sources of information
Ability to type at least 35 words per minute

Nice To Haves

Experience in a 911 communications or emergency response center
Background in medical, fire, or law enforcement fields
Familiarity with emergency radio and phone systems

Responsibilities

Answer and process emergency and non-emergency calls for service
Gather essential details and determine the appropriate level of response
Dispatch public safety units via two-way radio and Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD)
Determine response requirements for medical emergencies using the Emergency Medical Dispatch program
Document call details and maintain responder status updates in CAD
Perform DCI queries and relay critical law enforcement information
Read and interpret maps to assist responders and callers
Maintain confidentiality and secure access to sensitive data
Support after-hours calls for other County departments
Learn and obtain all necessary certifications
Must be flexible with work schedule, including holidays, nights, weekends, and overtime as needed
Perform additional duties as assigned