Telecommunicator III

Pottawattamie County•Council Bluffs, IA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Candidates must be actively working as a Public Safety Answering Point Telecommunicator (dispatcher) to be considered. If you are not currently working as a dispatcher, we encourage you to apply for the Pottawattamie County Telecommunicator I (calltaker) position. A 911 Telecommunicator III works directly with the public, law enforcement, fire departments, and various other public safety agencies to provide both emergency and non-emergency responses to incidents within our County. Operates all radio consoles and ancillary equipment providing appropriate command, control and support information to public safety responders. Dispatches law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services personnel in adherence with established policies and procedures. Tracks and documents current status of personnel and equipment dispatched. Operates the NCIC/I.O.W.A. systems terminal, providing support to authorized public safety personnel and agencies, in accordance with local, state and federal regulations. Receive incoming emergency and non-emergency calls via telephone, text, video, or data feeds, using established protocols and technology. Communicate effectively and empathetically with callers in crisis, providing pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions (e.g., CPR, active shooter, medical emergencies) while maintaining composure under pressure. Interpret and verify caller location and incident data using mapping software, GIS tools, and automated location systems to ensure precise response coordination. Manage multiple incidents simultaneously, demonstrating strong critical thinking, prioritization, and decision-making skills in high-stress situations. Document incident details accurately and efficiently while maintaining situational awareness and ensuring responder safety. Utilize specialized communication resources, including TDD/relay services, language interpretation, and text-to-911, to assist callers with disabilities or language barriers. Adhere to all operational policies, legal standards, and confidentiality requirements while maintaining ongoing training, certifications, and professional development.

Requirements

Must be actively working as a Public Safety Answering Point Telecommunicator (dispatcher).
Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license and authorization to work in the U.S. (citizen or legal resident).
Ability to pass a drug screening and background investigation that meets all local, state, and federal requirements (no felony or serious/aggravated misdemeanor convictions).
Knowledge of or ability to learn geography of Pottawattamie County, including street locations and common places.
Ability to read, write and speak the English language proficiently and communicate clearly and effectively.
Ability to communicate tactfully and efficiently with the public, including those who are frightened, incoherent, or hostile while simultaneously being able to coordinate an emergency response.
Ability to simultaneously communicate, interpret communications, and enter data into multiple software systems with speed and accuracy while managing frequent interruptions.
Proficiency with Windows-based and various other software applications, and telecommunications equipment.
Quickly learn, retain, and apply knowledge of the policies, procedures, laws, ordinances, regulations, and geographical data affecting public safety call-taking and the ability to apply them appropriately.
Utilize logic, critical thinking, and sound judgment to analyze data, problem solve and make rapid decisions from information that may be confusing, hostile, disjointed and/or incomplete.
Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate tact and trustworthiness with sensitive information.
Strong attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Current PSAP Telecommunicator

Responsibilities

Operates all radio consoles and ancillary equipment providing appropriate command, control and support information to public safety responders.
Dispatches law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services personnel in adherence with established policies and procedures.
Tracks and documents current status of personnel and equipment dispatched.
Operates the NCIC/I.O.W.A. systems terminal, providing support to authorized public safety personnel and agencies, in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
Receive incoming emergency and non-emergency calls via telephone, text, video, or data feeds, using established protocols and technology.
Communicate effectively and empathetically with callers in crisis, providing pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions (e.g., CPR, active shooter, medical emergencies) while maintaining composure under pressure.
Interpret and verify caller location and incident data using mapping software, GIS tools, and automated location systems to ensure precise response coordination.
Manage multiple incidents simultaneously, demonstrating strong critical thinking, prioritization, and decision-making skills in high-stress situations.
Document incident details accurately and efficiently while maintaining situational awareness and ensuring responder safety.
Utilize specialized communication resources, including TDD/relay services, language interpretation, and text-to-911, to assist callers with disabilities or language barriers.
Adhere to all operational policies, legal standards, and confidentiality requirements while maintaining ongoing training, certifications, and professional development.