JOB
Do you want to be a first responder while enjoying the benefits of an air-conditioned office? Do you like a fast-paced work environment where no two days are exactly the same? Are you good with a keyboard and have great multitasking skills? Are you a good listener? Are you able to be the calm voice in stressful or chaotic situations?If you answered yes to these questions, a job as a Telecommunications Specialist–9-1-1 dispatcher might be for you. This position is located at our Combined Transportation, Emergency, and Communication Center and focuses on supporting our community. 9-1-1 Specialists are the first point of contact on 9-1-1 and coordinate Law Enforcement, EMS, and Fire response.This is a great position for those interested in developing their critical response skills in a rewarding and fast-paced environment, and who desire a competitive Total Rewards Package. Travis County offers one of the highest-rated retirement plans. We also offer vacation and sick leave, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, personal holidays, 12 company holidays, and longevity pay. Additionally, Telecommunicators are eligible for licensing pay and shift differential for evening and night shifts.Distinguishing Characteristics: This is the first in a series of three telecommunications-related job classifications within the Public Safety/Emergency Management job family. This classification is distinguished from the Telecommunications 9-1-1 Senior in that incumbents typically specialize in a division/department function and also possess broader knowledge/skills about division/department operation to allow more independence in carrying out responsibilities. May be required to work on rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays. This classification may require a flexible work schedule in order to meet the needs of the department.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Answers incoming emergency (9-1-1) and non-emergency calls.Operates emergency telecommunications networks equipment used in receiving and relaying information in response to emergency calls.Refers emergency fire and EMS calls by communicating with persons verbally over telephone and radio equipment. Ensures callers are transferred to appropriate agencies.Maintains telephone contact with callers during critical incidents and updates dispatch card with information pertaining to the call. Keeps caller calm and focused. Controls the call to quickly and accurately obtain necessary information.Operates telephone device for the hearing impaired (TDD) to ensure emergency services is provided.Accesses Language Line to ensure appropriate emergency response.Operates a radio system in accordance with FCC rules and regulations.Dispatches units to various calls for services.Coordinates, performs and controls multiple 9-1-1 communication multiple-simultaneous tasks on demand.Obtains and relays information to patrol officers and staff through telecommunications networks using a Computer Aided Dispatch Terminal (CAD), NCIC, TCIC, and TLETS. Uses log, runs inquiries, researches and enters information, assigns case numbers and maintains databases.Uses laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures for ensuring proper response to the public calls for assistance and inquiry.May interpret maps and other legal location description documents.Obtains appropriate information from calls via 9-1-1 telephone system.Processes information and data in accordance with TCSO policies and legal requirements.May operate a county vehicle for business purposes and under non-emergency conditions.Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Physical requirements include the ability to lift/carry up to 20-40 pounds and pushing/pulling with force up to 20-40 pounds, occasionally. Subject to constant sitting, reaching, talking, audition, and exercise of fine dexterity, occasional standing, walking, climbing, kneeling/crouching, bending/squatting, and gripping/grasping to perform the essential functions. Subject to job related stress and client/customer communications within the confines of the communication center. Work requires coverage 24-hours/7-days a week.Travis County employees play an important role in business continuity. As such, employees can be assigned to business continuity efforts outside of normal job functions.This job description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the
position.Work Hours: Work Hours Vary, Works some holidays, nights, or weekends. 10-hour shifts24-hour per day operation 7 days per weekLocation: Austin, TX Department: SheriffCriminal Background Check, Credit Check, TCOLE, Driving Record, Physical Exam, Drug Test, Alcohol Test, Psychological Test, Education, and Employment History Check Required.For updates or questions on this position, contact:
Lydia.Cairo@traviscountytx.gov