Communications Specialist

Responsible for the operation of the base station radio, 9-1-1 telephony, and other communications equipment used to facilitate information transmitted quickly and accurately to public safety responders. Input data into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and the Records Management System (RMS). Process alarms. Greet and assist the public. Provide support to the Operations and Support Services Bureaus.

The duties listed below are intended only as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements or duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

 

Receive, classify and direct incoming 9-1-1 emergency, non-emergency and administrative phone calls.

 

Provide resources to emergency responders.

 

Operate base station and radio equipment using proper radio etiquette, terminology, and professionalism.

 

Coordinate the dispatch of police, fire, and medical services.

 

Greet and assist the public who enter Town Hall via the DPS lobby.

 

Enter and maintain data in local, state and national computerized databases including the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC), the regional warrant database, and CAD and RMS.

 

Retrieve and disseminate information to public safety responders, various Town departments, the public and other entities.

 

Process incoming alarms.

 

Accept bonds and fines when a court clerk is unavailable.

 

Observe video feed from Town cameras, including the holding facility and inmates confined within.

 

Operate exterior doors and gates, holding facility doors and intercom systems to ensure the safety and security of Town Hall and the jail holding facility. 

 

Respond to alerts received from ancillary alarm panels, such as the generator alarm, the fire alarm, and the smoke evacuation alarm. 

 

Engage the civil defense siren as directed. 

 

Maintain a petty cash box.

Conduct janitorial tasks in the immediate work area.

Perform other duties as requested.

 

Must effectively communicate verbally and in writing and have the ability to maintain workflow with minimal supervision while processing multiple operations simultaneously with frequent interruptions. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and superiors. Effectively meet and deal with the public in a professional and courteous manner. General office skills and knowledge of typing, filing and computer operations. Accurately record and maintain records and have the ability to directly key in data as it is received audibly.

 

 

(A)Thirty (30) college hours from a regionally accredited college or university or three (3) years experience as a call-taker/dispatcher in a PSAP environment.

(B) Ability to obtain a TCOLE Basic Telecommunicator License.

(C) Minimum typing skill of 30 words per minute. 

 

Must be proficient in making sound decisions quickly, multi-tasking, and maintaining a calm demeanor during high-stress incidents or situations.