Police Communications Operator

Job Summary

This position is responsible for performing intermediate technical work for the control of the flow of information between police department personnel, other city departments, other law enforcement agencies, and the public; and for ensuring the maintenance of communications necessary to support the operations of the police department on all shifts.

Essential Job Functions

• Receives non-emergency and emergency calls from the general public for police assistance, categorizes and prioritizes them before relaying appropriate information to police department personnel.

• Dispatches police department personnel on patrol to various locations in response to calls and as instructed.

• Receives requests for information, assistance and instructions from officers in the field.

• Receives calls from the public on problems relating to public works and other city departments at times when these departments are closed and contacts appropriate personnel as necessary.

• Maintains logs and records concerning incoming calls, communications with officers in the field, reports of abandoned autos, license checks, information checks, traffic light malfunctions, teletype messages, weather reports and others as required.

• Reports all defects or malfunctions and makes requests for repairs to communications equipment as necessary.

• Assists other sections of the department in message taking and other duties as necessary.

• Receives animal control related calls and dispatches Neighborhood Services Officers as required.

• Performs other related duties as required or necessary.

• Receives calls from the public in a manner that all necessary information is obtained, that the person making the call is reassured, and that the appropriate action is taken in a timely fashion to ensure that the major objectives of the department are met.

• Maintains all logs and records in an up-to-date and accurate manner.

• Ensures that the proper radio procedures are being followed.

• Ensures that all defects in equipment are reported immediately and that requests for repairs are made in a timely fashion.

• Responsible to keep abreast of Federal, State and local laws and policies effecting police communications operations.

• Maintains required confidentiality and security of police information and record with regard to radio communications.

• Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

High school degree; and one (1) year of progressively responsible work in emergency dispatch; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Qualifications:

Must have or be able to obtain NCIC Certification within 90 days of employment. Successfully pass a background investigation.

Candidate must pass an polygraph, drug test and a psychological examination prior to being offered employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge in proper radio procedures.

• Skill in the use of two-way radios, computers, teletype machines and other communications equipment.