Public Safety Communications Officer
Responsible for providing emergency and non-emergency dispatching of calls. This role operates a variety of communication equipment including, but not limited to radios, telephones, and surveillance and computer systems. Employees in these roles must pass a background investigation and have the flexibility to perform shift work.
Typical Functions
Typical functions listed below are examples of work performed by positions in this role and are not intended to be all-inclusive. Some duties may overlap levels; however, the preponderance of the work will be assessed when assigning positions to specific levels.
- Dispatches and routes emergency and non-emergency calls.
- Monitors the status of emergency personnel to ensure their safety.
- Monitors central alarm statuses and video surveillance.
- Prepares incident reports.
- Utilizes databases to enter and retrieve information.
- Assists the public with general questions.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs)
Listed below are the minimum requirements for this role. KSAs will become more advanced as the level increases and will vary depending on the requirements of the position.
- Communication skills.
- Active listening skills.
- Customer service skills
- Ability to multi-task.
- Ability to enter and retrieve information accurately.
- Ability to learn department-specific software and databases.
- Ability to use a multi-line phone system and multi-channel radio system.
- Ability to maintain composure during stressful situations.
Level Descriptions
Public Safety Communications Officer 1
- Performs work under general supervision; decisions on how to carry out work are largely guided by interpreting individual situations and documents and determining which guidelines are most effective out of those available
- Trains and provides work direction to others.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a high school diploma or the equivalent.
License/Certification
NCIC or other applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR04
Public Safety Communications Officer 2
- Supervises and assigns the work of those at level 1 and other employees.
- Assists with challenging or complex situations.
- Creates work schedules and is responsible for performance management.
- Analyzes data, creates plans, and provides input to departmental planning.
- Performs miscellaneous administrative functions as needed.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a high school diploma and three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
License/Certification
NCIC or other applicable certification, or the ability to obtain certification within 6 months of hire may be required.
Market Range: MR06
Public Safety Communications Officer 3
- Performs a complex specialized function and/or manages the operations and staff of a dispatch center.
- Supervises other supervisors.
- Responsible for interpreting and implementing policy and procedural changes and implements training plans for staff.
- Acts as an agency administrator for specialized systems.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a high school diploma and four years of relevant, progressively responsible experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
License/Certification
NCIC or other applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR09
Effective Date: January 4, 2021
