Communications Officer

Position Summary

Work involves performing specialized and complex telecommunications and dispatch duties that require independent judgment and a thorough knowledge and understanding of communications equipment and policies and procedures. This includes answering emergency (911) and other calls, dispatching numerous local law enforcement and fire/emergency medical agencies, providing life-saving emergency medical instructions, and entering information into a computerized system.

What You Will Do

• Receives incoming 9-1-1 hardwire and cellular telephone calls, non-emergency phone calls, inter-office phone calls and ring-down lines; obtains pertinent information, determines nature, location and priority of calls, dispatches units or takes messages for duty personnel or transfers callers.
• Dispatches necessary emergency personnel including law enforcement units, fire departments, ambulance departments and other agencies as needed.
• Performs Emergency Medical Dispatching for all medic calls received in the communications center.
• Maintains radio contact with units on assignments and monitor status and location of police, fire and emergency medical service units.
• Operates a variety of public safety communications equipment including multi-channel radio, 9-1-1 emergency telephone equipment, computer aided dispatch systems, installs recall recorders and paging and intercom systems.
• Sends, receives, records and disseminates teletype information from the state and national computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, stolen vehicles and other related information; relays to officers in the field; maintains National Crime Information/Colorado Crime Information (NCIC/CCIC) Certification.
• Enters data into automated records; maintains a large variety of logs relating to public safety telecommunication activities; looks up information in databases; compiles statistics on calls received; uses email to communicate.
• Collaborates and relays information and assistance requests involving other law enforcement and fire fighting agencies; coordinates and assigns resources as necessary in emergency and non-emergency situations.
• Reads maps and verbally describes detailed directions via radio or phone.
• Maintains access and dissemination of confidential information. Performs extensive computer work for criminal histories, background checks, previous contacts, warrants and officer safety information.
• Takes possession of and maintains active warrants to include return of service and audits of same.
• Maintains building security alarm system, national warning phone, radio equipment, phone equipment and all other essential equipment and reports to responder as necessary.
• As assigned, serves as the Communications Shift Supervisor in the absence of same.
• Works a shift schedule as assigned.
• Performs other duties as appropriate or necessary for performance of the job.

What You Have

• Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED.
• A valid driver’s license at the time of application and a valid Colorado driver’s license at time of hire is required.
• A minimum of one year of experience performing duties comparable to those of a Communications Officer is required.
• Testing includes, but is not limited to, a computerized multi-task test, interview, and mandatory observation session.
• Prior to employment, candidates will complete a background investigation, polygraph examination, physical examination to include a drug screen, and psychological evaluation.
• The expected duration of the selection process will normally not exceed two months.
• Candidates not selected may reapply in the future.
• This position requires shift work, including weekends and holidays.
• This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

Compensation

$4,700.80-$5,947.07 Monthly (Although the entire salary range is posted, the position starts at $4,700.80 per month.)

What Pueblo County Offers

• Shift differential pay
• Referral/Recruitment incentives
• Trainer pay
• Tuition reimbursement
• Take-home vehicle (Patrol)
• Opportunity to work in many diverse areas
• Comprehensive Benefits package (medical, dental, vision, etc.) (full-time employees)
• Generous Vacation and Sick Leave Accrual
• County Retirement Program
• Autonomy to grow and find your career path with supportive leadership
• Truly inclusive and diverse environment
• Fitness Center (Historic Pueblo Courthouse Building)
• May be eligible for up to 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave
• Benefits (full-time employees)