Download a MECCA 9-1-1 Job Application Packet
Telecommunicator Job Description
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 exclusive)
- 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 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 callers, 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 building 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, judgement 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:
- Applicants are subject to criminal background investigation;
- Substance abuse testing, hearing and psychological examination;
- Must reside within a 30 minute drive of the MECCA facility.
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