Communications Officer

General Description

Primary duties consist of operating the communications console, teletype network and computer system, input of dispatch related information. Additionally, to provide timely and accurate transmittal of information and messages received regarding police operations and public information. The work involves extensive contacts with law enforcement officers and personnel providing other municipal services, and the general public.

This is a position that has a tremendous amount of responsibility to be able to act and react in a safe, efficient manner for the protection of life and property. Must be willing to adopt and exhibit the City of Brownwood I SERVE Core Values.

Examples Of Specific Work Performed

• Answer telephone and transmit messages to proper authorities
• Operate two-way communication equipment, coordinate by radio with local police units and other law enforcement agencies and other departments of the City and businesses providing emergency services
• Operate the teletype, send/receive and file messages
• Meet and assist the public who enter the police building for information and route them to the proper place for assistance
• Initiate a written Calls for Service (CFS) report that will be entered into the computer as time permits, for all activity, including all actions of the officers, telephone or walk-in complaints from the public, or coordination of services with other City departments
• Serve as 911 call taker, receiving and dispatching 911 calls as necessary
• Maintain log for all required forms for entry into the system, National Crime Information Center
• When requested by officer, provide for call-out emergency services such as ambulance, wrecker service, fire, street, utility or other departments; burglary alarm notification and essential services required from gas and electric companies
• Input data into and retrieve data from several types of computer systems
• Perform other duties as required by supervisor for the efficient operation of the police department

Physical And Environmental Conditions

• Indoor work, pleasant and unpleasant conditions
• Exposure to noise
• Light physical activity
• Ability to sit, stand and move about an office or building
• Occasionally lift materials weighing approximately 20-30 pounds or climb in order to reach cabinets
• Ability to bend and squat in order to file or retrieve information
• May be exposed to electrical, mechanical, or chemical hazards when operating or maintaining office equipment
• Ability to see and handle small objects

Work Conditions

• Indoor work, pleasant and unpleasant conditions
• Exposure to noise
• Light physical activity
• Shift work with shift changes every three months, working on weekends and holidays
• Overtime required on as-needed basis

Contact With Others

• Frequent contact with the general public and law enforcement personnel from several different agencies

Education And Experience

• High school diploma or G.E.D. certificate
• Prefer one year as dispatcher or related experience
• Computer knowledge desirable

Training

• Must participate in training schools made available, as required by supervisor