Emergency Communications Specialist I

Chatham, County of•Pittsboro, NC

About The Position

Performs intermediate technical work on an assigned shift, dispatching law enforcement, fire, emergency medical service, and non-emergency calls for service, along with related duties. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Emergency Communications Shift Supervisor. The position operates emergency communication systems, receives and processes calls, dispatches responders, and maintains communications and records. Position functions may change based on departmental needs and external factors, including regulatory requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and moderate experience in general clerical work, including basic computer knowledge, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
General knowledge of emergency communications systems and operating procedures.
General knowledge of radio, teletype, and CAD operations.
General knowledge of county geography and the locations of major buildings and facilities.
General knowledge of law enforcement forms, terminology, and records.
General knowledge of departmental programs, policies, and procedures.
Ability to perform a high volume of detailed work accurately.
Ability to type accurately at a reasonable rate of speed.
Ability to speak distinctly and remain calm and effective when dealing with the public in stressful situations.
Ability to follow oral and written directions.
Ability to operate standard office equipment and personal computers, including applicable software packages.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, public safety agencies, and the general public.
Must successfully complete a pre-employment physical and psychological evaluation.
Must possess or obtain within one year of employment: DCI Operator Certification, CPR Certification, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Certification, Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) Certification, Emergency Police Dispatch (EPD) Certification, NIMS/ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800, and Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification.

Responsibilities

Operate the emergency communications system; answer emergency and non-emergency calls; receive complaints and requests for service; obtain necessary information; dispatch medical, fire, and law enforcement personnel; or direct callers to appropriate assistance or information.
Use Emergency Dispatch protocol programs to categorize and prioritize emergency medical, fire, and law enforcement calls, and provide post-dispatch and pre-arrival instructions to callers.
Operate a computer terminal; transmit and receive information through Department of Criminal Information (DCI) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) networks; and enter calls into a computer-aided dispatch system.
Monitor radio channels for medical, fire, and law enforcement agencies and maintain radio contact with dispatched personnel.
Provide directions to responding units using a computer mapping system.
Serve as a liaison to agencies and personnel, including on-call personnel, magistrates, the medical examiner, public works, and the State Highway Patrol.
Answer non-emergency and after-hours calls for various departments.
Maintain communication logs and reports, including call nature, actions taken, and time involved.
Perform pager announcements and tests for medical and fire departments.
Monitor public and private fire and security alarm systems and activate monitors to dispatch fire and rescue squads as needed.
Provide requested information to local attorneys and the Sheriff’s Office.
Attend training as necessary to maintain certifications.
Perform other duties as assigned.