911 Telecommunicator (Dispatcher)- Communication Officer I or II

About us

Sherman County is a governmental entity in Northwest Kansas. We are professional, agile and professional.

Our work environment includes:

• Modern office setting
• Growth opportunities
• Educational opportunities
• Upward mobility

DEPARTMENT: Sherman County Communications

REPORTS TO: 9-1-1 Director

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Communications Officer I performs specialized work in receiving and dispatching messages in the 911 center. The employee in this position is responsible for the operation of dispatch radios, computers, 911 and administrative phone lines/fax and will receive and dispatch messages, a portion of which may be of an emergency nature.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Essential Functions)

• Develops competency in the procedures and operation of a base station two-way radio in order to maintain continuous contact between officers and other public safety agencies; learns appropriate radio codes and phraseology.
• Learns techniques for the proper methods of receiving and transmitting messages using 911 equipment, two-way radio receivers and to understand the content of simultaneous multiple voice transmissions.
• Monitors the status and location of on-duty personnel.
• Learns to properly operate the state computer to send, relay and receive inter and intra-state information: learns NCIC, NLETS codes and formats.
• Becomes certified in NCIC.
• Checks radio and telephone equipment for operating defects and reports malfuntions.
• Operates a variety of office equipment, including but not limited to computers used for computer aided dispatch and teletype equipment.
• Monitors alarms and warning systems such as National Weather Service teletypes and security alarms.

ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Marginal functions)

• Makes entries into the National Crime Information Center such as warrants, Protection Orders, Stolen Vehicles, etc.
• Coordinates with Emergency Management, Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services and Fire and other support agencies during minor and major events.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Experience: Employee is expected to have acquired all the necessary information, skills and certifications to perform the job accurately within six months in the position.

Education: High School diploma or GED required. Supplemental courses in computer entry preferred. Certification in NCIC (National Crime Information Center) is required within the first six (6) months of employment. Employee is expected to complete all assigned online training and is encouraged to seek out and complete any other training that is pertinent to their position.

Skills: Ability to quickly develop general knowledge of law enforcement communication procedures, mathematics and computer applications. Ability to operate a computer. Ability to become proficient with the teletype, radio communications and other related communication equipment. Ability to read and interpret area maps. Ability to think clearly and respond quickly, accurately and calmly in emergency situations. Ability to speak clearly and correctly, using the English language. Ability to acquire the knowledge of operating radio transmitting and receiving equipment using head or handset, manual switches, computer, mouse and keyboard, video display monitor while in a sitting position; Ability to pass a keyboard test at 35 words per minute; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, representatives from outside agencies and the public.

Problem Solving: Problem solving exists in this position. Problems include handling citizen concerns and complaints.

DECISION MAKING: Frequent decision-making exists in this position. Decisions include handling crisis situations while dispatching and sending the correct personnel and equipment to the scene of an accident or crime.

ACCOUNTABILITY: Takes responsibility for one’s actions. Corrects actions at the advisement of other staff to achieve proficiency and uniformity. Employee is responsible for having good hygiene, for arriving to work well-rested and for having good housekeeping habits within the center.

Supervision: Supervision is provided and job related decisions are occasionally reviewed by the 911 Director. Employee does not have supervisory responsibilities over subordinate personnel.

Personal Relations: Frequent contact with other city/county departments and continual contact with the general public. Must maintain a positive and professional attitude during all interactions.

Working Conditions: Infrequent hazardous and dangerous situations may arise in working this position.

Physical Conditions:

Light work in that the worker sits most of the time. The option to stand at the workstation is also available, at the Communication Officer’s discretion and/or desire to do so. Sustained movements of the wrists, hands and/or fingers in typing or otherwise working, primarily with the fingers rather than the whole hand or arm. Ability to hear 25 decibels or less at 500hz; 4,000 Hz; and points in between, as well as to accurately interpret what is heard. Visual acuity that is correctable to 20/20.

Must have the ability to express or exchange ideas of communications, convey and receive detailed or important instructions and convey information to and from the general public. Must also respond to corrective measures taken by other staff in order to complete the job to the level required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Goodland, KS 67735 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Goodland, KS 67735: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person