Communication Officer

About the Role

Summary:
To answer emergency E-911 and non-emergency calls to relay information between E-911 callers and law enforcement, EMS, and fire department, to dispatch each as required, and perform a variety of technical task relative to assigned areas of responsibility.
Essential Functions:

Operates a two-way radio to receive and transmit messages and dispatches appropriate patrol units or other emergency response personnel as needed; dispatches other city departments after hours and during a natural or man-made disaster; and relays information pertinent to filed operations; Receives, evaluates calls, and responds to complaints and requests for service by telephone both wireless and wireline and 9-1-1. Directs calls to appropriate staff, officers, and/or agencies; Informs 911 callers of emergency procedures; Notifies other agencies needed to assist Police, Fire/EMS, and Rescue in emergencies (officers, fire, rescue animal control, public works, public utilities, child protection services, bomb squad and other emergency personnel as appropriate; Operates a computer terminal connected to the Telecommunications system and the New Mexico and National Crime Information Center (NMLETS/NCIC) to obtain such information as registration information, driver’s license status and history, stolen property and wanted person information, as necessary; Enters, modifies, locates and clears missing persons, runaways, stolen property/vehicles in NMLETS/NCIC and corresponds with other agencies both state and nationwide. Performs computer-assisted and manual records checks for officers on individuals, locations, vehicles and other property, sometimes verifying warrants or reports of stolen property with the originating agency; Monitors/utilizes other software critical to emergency communications; Maintains, updates, and accesses for officers various logs and computer data files (incident reports, stolen or repossessed property logs, maps, etc.) Provides Emergency Medical instructions over the phone until dispatched personnel arrive; Completes forms and reports; Monitors parking lot, entrances to and exits from building; operates door buttons; Takes calls and dispatches commercial and residential alarms; Assigns escorts when required; Maintains current technical and medical knowledge relevant to telecommunication, including reading appropriate newsletters and publications; Other Important Duties; Assist citizens and visitors to the Department by monitoring the lobby area and directing to appropriate personnel; May assist with training of new employees; and Performs such other duties as may be assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge

Procedures used in operating E-911 systems for a public organization.
Good communication skills, both oral and written.
Demonstrated ability to work independently.
Community service agencies and responsibilities.
Correct English usage, spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Skills

Strong written and oral communications and relational skills
Follow and relay complex oral and written instructions, policies, and procedures.
Operate a variety of office equipment, including computer terminal, related software programs, printer calculator, fax, and copier.
Abilities

Ability to observe, analyze and assess results against established goals.
Ability to work with PSAP personnel and operations team members.
Facilitate meetings effectively and efficiently.
Correctly interpret and apply County policies and procedures.
Comprehend process and apply both verbal and written skills appropriate to the job.
Accurately organize and maintain paper and electronic files.
Must be able to work flexible hours to accommodate emergencies.
Must be able to travel for work when needed.
Physical Demands

The work is typically an office environment and may require exerting up 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force to move objects.
While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regular required to talk or hear.
The employee frequently is required to use hand to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.
The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk, stoop, and bend.
Specific vision abilities required by the job to include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Requirements