About the role
Introduction
This is beginning level communications work. Bargaining unit position.
Nature Of Work
This is the entry level class in the Public Safety
Telecommunicator series, which is typically used as a training classification
and requires proficiency in performing tasks of higher than average difficulty.
Positions at this level are not expected to function with the same amount of
program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to Public Safety
Telecommunications II and initially exercise less independent discretion and
judgement in matters related to work procedures and methods. While in training,
work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure
or pattern. After the training period is complete, employees may remain in this
classification in a part-time capacity or may advance to the level of Public
Safety Telecommunications II based on demonstrated proficiency in performing
the full range of assigned duties.
Public Safety Telecommunicators are responsible for the efficient
response to emergency and non-emergency calls to include but not limited to,
receiving, processing, effectively prioritizing and documenting all calls for
service for police, fire, and/or medical assistance from the public,
relaying information to the appropriate
source for assistance, and performing related administrative duties.
Under general supervision, employees must exercise some initiative
and independent judgment in determining how to respond to requests for service.
An important aspect of work in this class is the ability to respond to
emergencies in a controlled, expeditious manner. Employees must be capable of
maintaining awareness of what is going on in an assigned area of the city to
include knowing the locations of all in-service vehicles. Work is reviewed
through observation of services rendered, records maintained, and periodic
evaluation of work performance.
Public Safety Telecommunicators function in a stressful, fast paced
environment and work shifts are specified by agency need and management
direction. The shifts may include
nights, weekends, holidays, as well as mandatory overtime as required. Work is
performed in a secured public safety communications center in a controlled,
closely supervised, and highly structured work environment. Work requires
visual and muscular dexterity to operate communications equipment
(computer-aided dispatch equipment, telephones, and radios).
Upon successful completion of the probationary phase, a full-time Public
Safety Telecommunicator may be approved for promotion to a Public Safety
Telecommunications II, pay grade 26.
Examples of Duties
Answer emergency (9-1-1) and non-emergency telephone lines
obtaining information, prioritizing and confirming the location of calls as
well as making independent determination of appropriate action for processing
all incoming calls for service, to include relaying pertinent information to
the appropriate public safety response unit (police, fire, and/or emergency
medical services/EMS) or providing callers with the appropriate advice or
referral.
Operate and monitor two-way radio channels, computer aided display
(CAD) monitors and other related sophisticated communications equipment systems,
while efficiently gathering, prioritizing, and documenting caller information.
Process complaints and make appropriate referrals on a broad
variety of public safety matters, that often require referring to or memorizing
detailed reference materials and standard operating procedures, including
databases, maps, telephone listings, and other resources.
Summarize critical information for public safety first responders
in the computer aided dispatch system using correct grammar, spelling, and
punctuation, and refer and classify calls for police/fire/EMS assistance
according to the level of response required.
Receive requests by phone or electronic format from law
enforcement, fire/medical personnel, and other public safety agencies to
access, enter, retrieve, and disseminate data utilizing local, state and
national database systems; prioritize and effectively relay information in
proper format to requesting agency.
Contact outside public service divisions as
requested and relay information as required.
Maintain service status of all mobile units for assigned area;
dispatches units by radio using signal codes; dispatches wreckers to accidents
and impounds following rotation schedule.
Determine the jurisdiction in which the incident occurred to
recommend referral; determines if a police unit should be dispatched to a scene
for an investigation to facilitate prompt referral of a case.
Record emergency calls or complaints, including type of service
required, location, and identification of persons, time of dispatch, time “out
of service”, and subsequent “return to service” of vehicles; maintains records
as required.
Continue training in the receipt and evaluation of calls for
service from citizens; advises citizens on calls that are not of an emergency
nature.
Operates personal computers, two-way radios, and other pertinent
equipment.
Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Working knowledge of: the methods, practices,
and regulations pertaining to radio transmitting equipment operations; the city,
and its geography.
Some knowledge of: zone boundaries; effective
communications techniques; records keeping and reporting; the operation of
personal computers.
Ability to: react quickly, calmly, and rationally in
emergencies; speak clearly and communicate effectively with police officers,
firefighters, and the general public; fluently speak a second language might be
required; maintain accurate records; establish and maintain effective working
relationships with employees and the general public; operate radio dispatching
equipment.
Skill in: the use and care of radio dispatching
equipment; basic typing/keyboard.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited high school or vocational school; or
an equivalent combination of training and experience. Possession of some typing
or keyboard skills. Preference may be given to individuals with previous
experience or who are bilingual (English/Spanish).
Preference may be given to applicants who are already state
certified as 911 Public Safety Telecommunicators or to individuals with
previous dispatching experience.
Licenses or Certifications
Successfully complete and maintain the State of Florida 911 Public
Safety Telecommunications certification.
Selection Plan
Employees
may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays,
and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency
declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in
preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.