Oregon DPSST Certified 911 Communications Officer

Description

To apply for this posting an applicant must hold an Oregon DPSST Basic Telecommunicator Certification. This posting is open until filled. The recruitment will use the following process, which can take a couple of months. You will not proceed to the next step until the previous step is completed. Hiring Bonus: If the successful applicant holds a current, valid Oregon DPSST Basic Telecommunicator Certification when hired, they will be paid a taxable bonus of $2500 in the first payroll period after hire. A second taxable bonus of $2500 will be paid upon successful completion of the 18-month probationary period.

About the role

This position operates communications equipment to receive and process incoming emergency 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for assistance. Dispatches calls to appropriate units or departments; maintain information on units’ activities. Performs other duties as assigned by the Communications Supervisor, Police Support Services Manager, and Police Chief.

Responsibilities

• Operates radio and multi-line phone telephone control consoles receiving both emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire and medical emergency assistance and other public requests for help.
• Effectively route other calls for service to other appropriate agencies.
• Dispatches medical call in accordance with APCO procedures and gives pre-arrival instructions to callers awaiting arrival of responding units.
• Questions callers with professionalism and control to determine the nature of the problem being reported and gather required information.
• Accesses computer terminals to obtain, transmit and record information such as vehicle license numbers, driver’s information, warrants and stolen vehicles information; enter and record information via computer terminal; maintain status of equipment to maintain control and record the activity of the dispatched units.
• Dispatches calls to appropriate units or departments; maintain information on units’ activities.
• Maintains contact with emergency apparatus and personnel using two-way radio, telephone, mobile dispatch terminals and computer aided dispatch system (CAD).
• Uses cameras to monitor individuals in holding cells for proper conduct, safety, and medical or other needs; immediately alerts an on-duty officer of any concerns.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Communications Supervisor, Police Support Services Manager, and Police Chief.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Bi-lingual ability in English and Spanish preferred and is incentivized.
• Experience in a multi-task, public service, and/or customer service environment preferred.
• DPSST Telecommunications Intermediate Certification.

Qualifications

• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, an extensive background check and the ability to obtain Oregon State Police CJIS clearance.
• Ability to possess and maintain Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) certification, APCO Emergency Medical Dispatch certification, and DPSST Telecommunications certification.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, and normal shifts that may be extended, work weekends, holidays, and work overtime as assigned; dependable and predictable employment is required.
• Possess a commitment to comply with confidentiality requirements and agency policies.
• Current knowledge of, or the ability to study and maintain familiarity with major roads, streets, industrial areas, public buildings and the general geographic locations and landmarks within jurisdictions of Dundee, Newberg, and the Ambulance Service District.
• Basic to intermediate level of computer knowledge and experience.
• High level skills in listening and communication; speaking clearly and distinctly in an appropriate tone of voice.
• Skill in the operation of the tools and equipment listed below.
• Documented ability of net typing speed of at least 45 words per minute.
• Ability to make independent decisions and exercise sound judgment consistent with appropriate policies, procedures, and techniques applicable to handling emergency situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally with a diverse range of contacts.
• Ability to follow and give verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to remain alert throughout an assigned shift, under varying levels of multiple simultaneous tasking and urgency.
• Ability to be flexible and highly adaptable to change.
• Ability to remain calm, deal with constant interruptions, and handle stressful situations; politically astute.
• Ability to simultaneously answer telephone calls and dispatch emergency services units as well as listen to radio traffic.
• Ability to maintain professionalism at all times, establish and maintain positive and cooperative working relationships with City staff and others contacted in the performance of duties.

Supervision

• Works under the close supervision of the Communications Supervisor.
• Exercises none.

Selection Guidelines

• Formal application, rating of education and experience;
• Written test, oral interview;
• Reference check and background investigation;
• Drug screen;
• Other job related tests may be required.

Additional Information

• The City of Newberg provides benefits to the Newberg-Dundee Police Association through the Northwest Firefighters Relief Association. The city pays 90% and the employee pays 10% of the benefit but also deposits the equivalent of the 10% into an employer-sponsored VEBA.

Required Questions

• Please describe your experience in a Public Safety Communications Center and provide your employer and job title.
• Please describe your experience using a Computer Aided Dispatch system, what system did you use.
• List experiences that demonstrate your ability to promote a positive work environment.
• Please explain your experience juggling your various life responsibilities while working assigned shifts and unexpected overtime.
• Are you comfortable working alone and in a team environment? Explain.