Telecommunicator I (Dispatch)

Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority•Alcoa, TN

27d•$42,734 - $55,554•Onsite

About The Position

The Telecommunicator I is responsible for receiving and dispatching communications using radio and telephone systems to support Public Safety Officers and Airport Security Officers in responding to alarms and incidents. This role handles both routine and emergency calls related to crimes, fires, medical needs, rescue situations, FAA flight information, maintenance issues, parking services, and general inquiries - determining the appropriate priority, location, jurisdiction, and agency for response. The position also monitors the Airport's CCTV system, crash phone, and security systems, taking appropriate action based on the nature of each situation. Additional responsibilities include initiating work orders for Authority personnel and airport tenants, coordinating communication between Federal, State, and local agencies, and ensuring timely emergency notifications to on-and-off airport response partners. The Telecommunicator I maintains accurate daily logs, reports, recordings, and essential records, including employee data and emergency contact information. Must be available for night, weekend, and holiday work.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
At least 3-years of experience working with the general public
At least 2 of those years working in communications (such as emergency dispatch)
Must be available for night, weekend, and holiday work.

Nice To Haves

Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) certification
Tennessee Incident Based Report System (TIBRS) certification
National Incident Management System (NIMS) certification
Strong working knowledge of airport operations
Strong working knowledge of telecommunications systems
Strong working knowledge of fire alarm systems
Strong working knowledge of emergency response procedures
Strong working knowledge of basic aircraft information
Thorough understanding of airport departments and their respective roles and responsibilities
Proficiency in the use of radio consoles
Proficiency in the use of portable radios
Familiarity with access control and alarm monitoring systems
Familiarity with airport security policies, procedures, and facility layouts
Knowledge of airport property, buildings, and operational areas
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong customer service abilities
Effective radio communication proficiency
Ability to multitask, remain organized, and prioritize competing responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
Adaptable
Eager to learn new skills
Capable of managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously while maintaining a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Uses electronic equipment and a multi-line telephone system to receive, process, and disseminate information.
Maintains detailed logs of calls, incidents, and events using computer-based systems, including Microsoft Word and other software applications.
Enters maintenance requests into the airport work order management system.
Generates, prints, and distributes reports from the airport reporting system through internal distribution, email, or postal mail.
Maintains accurate records across multiple computer programs to support daily airport operations and ensure efficient communication and documentation.
Contacts contracted service providers for escalator and elevator repairs and coordinates service requests as needed.
Notifies airport maintenance personnel when priority work orders are issued to ensure timely response and resolution.
Serves as a communication point of contact by receiving telephone calls regarding lost and found property and forwarding information to the appropriate department or personnel for follow-up and resolution.
Assists with monitoring airport security operations by utilizing surveillance systems, access control software, and related security technologies.
Monitors and manages access control for the MKAA to help ensure the safety and security of airport facilities.
Operates and monitors camera systems and other security equipment to identify, document, and report suspicious or unauthorized activity.
Accesses and handles private, confidential, and security-sensitive information in accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Implements the MKAA Emergency Response Plan during incidents and emergencies.
Dispatches appropriate first responders and coordinates notifications as required.
Facilitates and controls access for responding outside agencies to ensure timely entry and support during emergency operations.
Creates and maintains spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel to support data collection, tracking, analysis, and reporting needs.
Compiles, organizes, and updates information as requested to support operational planning, recordkeeping, and decision-making.
Maintains and updates day-to-day operational resources within the dispatch center, including contact information for airport personnel, contracted service providers, and local law enforcement, fire, and emergency response agencies.
Ensures that contact lists and reference materials remain accurate and up to date to support efficient communication and emergency response operations.
Performs pre-operational procedures at the beginning of each shift to ensure communications, security, and dispatch equipment are functioning properly.
Conducts a thorough information exchange with the outgoing shift to obtain updates on ongoing incidents, operational issues, equipment status, and other pertinent information to ensure continuity of operations and preparedness for duty.
Coordinates with the Blount County Emergency Communications Center to facilitate the entry, modification, and validation of National Crime Information Center (NCIC) records.
Reviews and verifies information to ensure agency records are accurate, complete, and consistent with external databases, supporting compliance with audit requirements and regulatory standards.
Enters Tennessee Incident-Based Reporting System (TIBRS) reports to ensure accurate and timely crime data reporting in accordance with state and federal reporting requirements.
May work under close supervision and guidance.
Performs related work as required.