Fire Alarm Operator Lateral

About the role

Maintains communication with field units to support effective emergency response operations. Receives and processes emergency and non-emergency calls; interrogates callers to obtain and document critical information, including the nature, location, and time of the incident, as well as caller details. Evaluates incoming calls, requests, and complaints to determine appropriate response actions in accordance with established protocols. Operates multiple communication and dispatch systems simultaneously, including telephone switchboard systems, Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD), Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio consoles, paging systems, and video monitoring equipment. Utilizes standardized Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocols to gather critical information and provide callers with pre-arrival medical instructions until emergency personnel arrive on scene. Dispatches appropriate Fire Services personnel to incidents via radio communication and monitors transmissions to maintain accurate, real-time status of personnel and emergency units. Researches and verifies geographic information to assist Fire Services personnel in identifying and responding to incident locations. Maintains and updates electronic records, logs, and distribution lists to support the accurate and timely dissemination of information. Communicates relevant information to Fire Services personnel and the public in accordance with departmental procedures and applicable regulations. Coordinates with personnel across various Fire Division service centers to support efficient emergency response operations. Maintains situational awareness of ongoing incidents and adjusts responses as necessary to support effective emergency management.

Responsibilities

• Communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing to effectively obtain and record information from callers.
• Perform multiple tasks simultaneously, including operating a telephone system such as a, Teletypewriter/Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD) system used to communicate with individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech impairments and a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system used to track and manage emergency calls and response units, a radio console, paging system, video monitoring equipment, and power-fail transfer systems to monitor emergency events and unit status.
• Work in a highly secured, enclosed dispatch environment with assigned workstation. The work environment is fast-paced and includes continuous background noise from multiple simultaneous communications.
• Be available to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating days off.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent and one (1) year of working experience with a full time Emergency Communications Center.
• At least nineteen (19) years of age by the starting date of the hiring class for which he/she is considered.
• Able to type at least 35 words per minute and complete a battery of job-related testing.
• APCO TC or NENA Telecommunicator I certification or equivalent.
• IAED certification in Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) Training or equivalent.
• CPR certification.