Public Safety Telecommunicator I

City of Tampa (FL) • Tampa, FL

264d

About The Position

This is beginning level communications work. Bargaining unit position. This is the entry level class in the Public Safety Telecommunicator series, which is typically used as a training classification and requires proficiency in performing tasks of higher than average difficulty. Positions at this level are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to Public Safety Telecommunications II and initially exercise less independent discretion and judgement in matters related to work procedures and methods. While in training, work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. After the training period is complete, employees may remain in this classification in a part-time capacity or may advance to the level of Public Safety Telecommunications II based on demonstrated proficiency in performing the full range of assigned duties. Public Safety Telecommunicators are responsible for the efficient response to emergency and non-emergency calls to include but not limited to, receiving, processing, effectively prioritizing and documenting all calls for service for police, fire, and/or medical assistance from the public, relaying information to the appropriate source for assistance, and performing related administrative duties. Under general supervision, employees must exercise some initiative and independent judgment in determining how to respond to requests for service. An important aspect of work in this class is the ability to respond to emergencies in a controlled, expeditious manner. Employees must be capable of maintaining awareness of what is going on in an assigned area of the city to include knowing the locations of all in-service vehicles. Work is reviewed through observation of services rendered, records maintained, and periodic evaluation of work performance. Public Safety Telecommunicators function in a stressful, fast paced environment and work shifts are specified by agency need and management direction. The shifts may include nights, weekends, holidays, as well as mandatory overtime as required. Work is performed in a secured public safety communications center in a controlled, closely supervised, and highly structured work environment. Work requires visual and muscular dexterity to operate communications equipment (computer-aided dispatch equipment, telephones, and radios). Upon successful completion of the probationary phase, a full-time Public Safety Telecommunicator may be approved for promotion to a Public Safety Telecommunications II, pay grade 26.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited high school or vocational school; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Possession of some typing or keyboard skills.
• Ability to react quickly, calmly, and rationally in emergencies.
• Ability to speak clearly and communicate effectively with police officers, firefighters, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and establish effective working relationships.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in a similar role.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills.
• State certification as 911 Public Safety Telecommunicators.
• Previous dispatching experience.

Responsibilities

• Answer emergency (9-1-1) and non-emergency telephone lines obtaining information, prioritizing and confirming the location of calls as well as making independent determination of appropriate action for processing all incoming calls for service.
• Relay pertinent information to the appropriate public safety response unit (police, fire, and/or emergency medical services/EMS) or provide callers with the appropriate advice or referral.
• Operate and monitor two-way radio channels, computer aided display (CAD) monitors and other related sophisticated communications equipment systems.
• Process complaints and make appropriate referrals on a broad variety of public safety matters.
• Summarize critical information for public safety first responders in the computer aided dispatch system using correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Receive requests by phone or electronic format from law enforcement, fire/medical personnel, and other public safety agencies to access, enter, retrieve, and disseminate data.
• Maintain service status of all mobile units for assigned area; dispatch units by radio using signal codes.
• Record emergency calls or complaints, including type of service required, location, and identification of persons.
• Continue training in the receipt and evaluation of calls for service from citizens.
• Operate personal computers, two-way radios, and other pertinent equipment.

Benefits

• Bargaining unit position.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees