Public Safety Communications Officer I

St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners•Fl 34945, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Public Safety Communications Officer I serves as the first line defense in emergencies by providing critical support to residents and visitors in distress. This position is responsible for receiving, processing, transmitting and conveying public safety information to dispatchers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services and emergency management personnel based on the caller’s location and the nature of the call, all while utilizing computer computer-aided dispatch (CAD), radio systems, and maintaining detailed call logs; essentially acting as the crucial communications link between the public and first responders within St. Lucie County.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Completion of a 911 dispatcher training program and a Florida Department of Health Certification are required.
Ability to type 30 or more words per minute.
Ability to handle stress and maintain focus in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure, empathize with callers, and maintain a professional demeanor while obtaining and recording information especially during high-stress emergency situations.
Ability to process and prioritize emergency information quickly and accurately.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening, clear and concise speaking, and the ability to convey information effectively under pressure.
Strong multi-tasking and decision-making skills with the ability to act quickly and appropriately in critical situations.
Proficiency in using communication equipment, computer-aided dispatch systems and software and other relevant technologies.
Ability to work rotating 12-16 hour shifts required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Required overtime or extended shifts during peak times or emergencies, sometimes with little advance notice.
Must hold a valid Florida driver’s license with a good driving record.
Physical capability of working long hours and managing multiple tasks simultaneously, often under stressful conditions.
Physical capability to lift and carry up to 10 lbs. on occasion.
Fine motor skills for tasks such as typing or handling small items.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in emergency dispatch, public safety, or a related field preferred.
Knowledge of emergency systems, emergency medical dispatch (EMD) protocols and/or certification are preferred.
Knowledge of the geography of the service area, including streets, neighborhoods, and critical facilities.
Knowledge of public safety radio communication systems and procedures.
Familiarity with medical, fire, and law enforcement terminology and procedures.

Responsibilities

Receive and prioritize emergency calls (911) and non-emergency calls, accurately gathering information and assessing the situation to determine appropriate response actions and prioritize based on urgency and severity, ensuring rapid response to life-threatening situations.
Handle multiple calls and tasks simultaneously, prioritizing critical incidents and responding to requests from public safety teams.
Operate communication equipment, including radio systems, telephones, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, and other tools necessary for effective communication.
Provide advice and guidance to callers who are in danger or need immediate assistance, while emergency responders are enroute.
Handle non-emergency requests from the public, including directing individuals to appropriate resources or providing information related to public safety services.
Remain calm and focused under pressure during high-stress situations, ensuring clear and accurate communication during emergencies.
Determine the appropriate response units (police, fire, and EMS) based on the nature of the emergency and dispatch the units, ensuring timely and appropriate resources are sent to the scene.
Monitor the progress of dispatched units and provide updates as needed.
Maintain continuous communication with public safety personnel, providing real-time updates, information, and ensure proper closure of incidents.
Coordinate emergency response efforts with other public safety agencies and outside organizations (e.g., utility companies, hospitals).
Document all calls, incidents, and activities accurately and completely for record-keeping and reporting purposes.
Accurately enter incident information into computer systems, ensuring that all calls and actions are documented properly for legal and operational purposes.
Follow established guidelines and procedures for handling emergency calls and dispatching units.
Demonstrate comprehension of general liability concepts and terms as well as a comprehension of specific liability issues associated with the position including the most notable areas of litigation in public safety communications.
Adhere to applicable local, state, tribal or federal statutes or codes as appropriate.
Comprehension and application of the division’s confidentiality policies and rules regarding the discussion or release of information acquired in the workplace to the public, the media, or others.
County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster , such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations . As a requirement of County employment,County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator . During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.