Metro Non-Emergency Communications Operator

City of Sioux Falls • City of Sioux Falls, SD

6d

About The Position

Metro Communications is hiring a Non-Emergency Communications Operator to answer and coordinate non-emergency public safety calls, identify situations that require emergency assistance, and route requests appropriately. The role serves the community through responsive communication and accurate information handling. No prior experience is necessary, and the position includes a three-week paid on-the-job training program.

The starting wage is $25.41–$27.49 per hour. A shift differential of $0.75 per hour applies between 2:00 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., seven days a week. The posting tentatively anticipates interviewing and testing candidates for a start date in early to mid-January; no year is specified.

Metro Communications and the City of Sioux Falls offer employee well-being support, including an employee assistance program, chaplains, and peer support. Workplace amenities include access to a live-in support dog, a workout facility, a wellness lab, and outdoor space for breaks. Career advancement opportunities may include Emergency Communications Operator and subsequent leadership positions.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or GED certification, or an acceptable combination of education, experience, and training.
• No convictions for crimes punishable by imprisonment in a state or federal penitentiary.
• Ability to rapidly acquire working knowledge of approved communication dispatch principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to learn, apply, and maintain Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)/Medical Priority Dispatch (MPDS) protocols.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a variety of audiences.
• Ability to prioritize and multitask.
• Ability to make sound decisions using available information.
• Ability to accomplish tasks while working under stress.
• Ability to read maps.
• Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers and citizens.
• Ability to maintain work quality and the confidentiality and integrity of the Metro Communications team.

Responsibilities

• Answer a high volume of non-emergency calls, determine the appropriate response, and coordinate and relay information about public safety requests.
• Identify emergency or crisis situations requiring police, emergency medical services, and/or fire assistance and process calls appropriately.
• Identify callers’ requests, work independently with callers to ensure an appropriate response, and route calls appropriately.
• Call citizens, alarm companies, and other parties to notify them of service delays or gather additional information.
• Research government or city resources to respond to callers’ inquiries or complaints.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, telephone calls, resource files, and information systems.
• Operate electronic devices and computer equipment to process and update information using various database systems.
• Participate in meetings, provide program feedback, recommend improvements, collaborate on new opportunities, policies, and procedures, address barriers, and mentor and support peers.
• Perform training responsibilities as assigned.
• Perform other duties and functions necessary or incidental to the position.

Benefits

• Three-week paid on-the-job training program.
• Employee assistance program, chaplains, and peer support.
• Access to a live-in support dog, workout facility, wellness lab, and outdoor space for breaks.
• Career advancement opportunities, including potential progression to Emergency Communications Operator and leadership positions.
• Shift differential of $0.75 per hour for work between 2:00 p.m. and 5:59 a.m.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED