Public Safety Telecommunicator I

Position Overview

The Public Safety Telecommunicator I is an integral part of the City of Borger's emergency services team, responsible for receiving and processing emergency calls and dispatching appropriate resources to incidents. This entry-level position involves working in a fast-paced, high-stress environment to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The Public Safety Telecommunicator I plays a vital role in upholding the city's core values of Boomtown PRIDE: Professional, Responsive, Innovative, Diverse, and Empowered.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Emergency Call-Taking: Answer emergency calls from the public, gathering essential information, and accurately assessing the nature and severity of each situation.
• Dispatching: Dispatch appropriate emergency services (police, fire, medical) to incidents based on established protocols and procedures, providing critical information to responders in the field.
• Radio Communication: Monitor radio communications between field units and dispatch, relaying messages and updates as needed and maintaining clear and concise communication channels.
• Data Entry and Recordkeeping: Enter call information into computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems accurately, ensuring completeness and timeliness of records.
• Resource Coordination: Coordinate with other dispatchers, agencies, and departments to ensure efficient allocation of resources and appropriate response to emergencies.
• Customer Service: Provide assistance and support to callers in distress, offering reassurance, instructions, and guidance until help arrives.
• Adherence to Protocols: Follow established protocols, procedures, and guidelines for emergency call-taking and dispatching, including those related to confidentiality and information security.
• Continuous Training: Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities to maintain and enhance skills in emergency communications and procedures.
• Shift Work: Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure 24/7 coverage of the dispatch center.

Typical Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or training in emergency communications, criminal justice, or related field preferred.
• Previous experience in customer service, call center, or dispatching role desirable.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate effectively under pressure.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications and data entry.
• Ability to remain calm and composed during high-stress situations.
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Public Safety Telecommunicator I position embodies the core values of Boomtown PRIDE and demonstrates:

• Professional: Maintains composure, professionalism, and confidentiality in all interactions, upholding the integrity of the dispatch center.
• Responsive: Demonstrates agility and efficiency in responding to emergency calls, ensuring prompt and accurate dispatch of resources.
• Innovative: Seeks opportunities to improve processes and procedures, contributing ideas for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the dispatch center.
• Diverse: Values and respects diversity in all its forms, treating all callers and colleagues with dignity, respect, and empathy.
• Empowered: Takes initiative and ownership of tasks, demonstrating accountability and a willingness to learn and grow in the role.