Employment
Telecommunicator Job Description
NEW Download a MECCA 9-1-1 job application packet here. NEW
Definition:
Performs work involved with emergency service dispatching
from a centralized public safety communications center.
Examples of Duties:
(NOTE: The following are intended to illustrate typical
duties; they are not meant to be all inclusive or restrictive)
- Receive training in emergency service response, first aid, and communications equipment operation.
- Performs in strict accordance with MECCA 9-1-1 policy, orders and statements of procedure and protocol.
- Receives telephone calls from the public concerning emergency and non-emergency situations relating to law enforcement, medical, fire, disasters and other related incidents.
- Records pertinent information and transmits the same to agencies and individuals. Maintains records and reports of activities. Makes referrals to other public service agencies when appropriate.
- Provides pre-arrival instructions to the caller, utilizing established protocol and procedures.
- Monitors and operates telephones, radios, teletype, alarm panels, tape records, computers, and all other equipment located within or controlled by the 9-1-1 facility.
- Uses a wide variety of radio frequencies to inform and coordinate activities of participating emergency service agencies.
- Maintains a safe working environment and takes care to protect all equipment and materials associated with the 9-1-1 facility.
- Provides for general cleanliness and order within the 9-1-1 facility.
- Assists with the training of new employees.
- Suggests improved communication practices.
- Performs other reasonable related duties as assigned by 9-1-1 facility employees operating in a supervisory capacity.
Supervision Received:
Works under the general supervision of a
Telecommunications Supervisor, Assistant Supervisor, or designated
Senior Telecommunicator.
Working Relationships:
Relationships are typically with the
general public or outside agencies on specialized matters that may
include handling difficult relationships or solving minor
difficulties.
Working Conditions:
Requires long periods of sitting,
adjusting to changing shifts and days off, exposure to a stressful
environment, including a tobacco free environment with little chance
of breaks.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge:
Ability to gain knowledge of the
community, including major facilities, highways, streets, landmarks,
etc. Ability to gain knowledge of various communications and
emergency response procedures. Working knowledge of business
English, spelling, and grammar.
Skills:
- Skilled in the use of computer keyboards with a minimum of 20 errorless words per minute, to transcribe hand-written copy and/or simultaneous oral communications;
- Skilled in basic map reading;
- Skilled in reading and understanding complex technical documents written in English, such as laws, ordinances, procedures, technical manuals, training manuals, computer printouts, and public safety reports;
- Skilled in observing, remembering, and recording facts and details such as those contained in oral and written directives, radio communications, and telephone communications;
- Skilled in organizing and analyzing a variety of information and applying selected knowledge, which is learned after employment, in order to decide on an appropriate and reasonable course of action;
- Skilled in exercising tact, self-restraint, judgment and strategy in dealing with a wide variety of people in various emotional states.
Abilities:
- Ability to communicate effectively by radio, telephone, and in person;
- Ability to accurately comprehend auditory inputs, particularly those inputs received via telephone and radio transmission;
- Ability to utilize eyes, ears, fingers, arms, and/or torso in a mobile and coordinated manner;
- Ability to react immediately and precisely to sudden stimuli;
- Ability to perform duties under stress with speed and accuracy;
- Ability to sit continuously for long periods in a tobacco free environment with minimal breaks;
- Ability to remain calm and react appropriately under stress;
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, user agency personnel and the general public.
Qualification Requirements
Education:
- Completion of high school or GED;
- Willingness to establish and actively maintain a program of continuing education directed to self-improvement in the position.
Experience:
- Radio and telephone dispatching of police, medical and/or fire agencies preferred, but not required.
Special Requirements:
- Applicant is subject to a background investigation;
- Substance abuse testing, hearing and psychological examination;
- Must reside within a thirty-minute drive of MECCA facility.
NEW Download a MECCA 9-1-1 job application packet here. NEW