Communications Specialist (Dispatch)

Position Summary
Communications Specialists, under the direction of the Datacom Unit Supervisor, are responsible for receiving, interpreting, and processing calls for police and fire services. They must be able to determine if the request for service is an emergency or non-emergency according to established procedures and training; relay the information with speed and accuracy; and dispatch police and fire personnel through the use of radio, telephone, or other communications equipment on an assigned shift. Communications Specialists also receive functional supervision from the on-duty patrol supervisor.

The job of Communications Specialist is a civilian position.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Each of the following tasks, duties, and responsibilities are performed on an on-going regular basis unless otherwise noted.

• Receives telephone inquiries and requests for service;
• Dispatches police and fire units in response to emergency and non-emergency complaints and calls-for-service;
• Transfers 911 emergency calls to appropriate agencies;
• Monitors radio frequencies;
• Receives, interprets, and disseminates all calls in order of priority;
• Maintains records of officer status;
• Documents all calls-for-service;
• Notifies the on-duty patrol supervisor of unusual incidents or major police matters as prescribed in applicable General Orders;
• Notifies other agencies or city departments of requests for services or of emergency situations;
• Monitors alarm systems;
• Conducts records checks;
• Performs computer data entry;
• Performs warrant, stolen article, and missing person entries and cancellations in the central records system and the criminal justice information systems as required;
• Activates and operates the Disaster Warning system;
• Operates the Hearing Impaired teleprinter;
• Performs secondary reviews of all criminal justice information system entries made by the prior on-duty Communications Specialist;
• May train new Communications Specialists;
• Operates teletype and automated data communications systems; and
• Performs other related duties as assigned; 

Job Specifications

• Possess a clear and concise speaking voice;
• Ability to operate telecommunications equipment;
• Ability to make effective decisions in highly stressful situations;
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative;
• Ability to learn and maintain knowledge of the geography of the Department's service area;
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
• Knowledge of the general principles of computer system operation;
• Ability to accurately and rapidly enter computer data;
• Ability to greet the public courteously to obtain information, give information, or to make understandable explanations of regulations;
• Ability to perform multiple tasks concurrently;
• Ability to prioritize activities and/or assignments;
• Knowledge of criminal justice information systems (NCIC, NLETS, etc.) rules, regulations, and requirements;
• Knowledge of Departmental policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and General Orders; and
• Knowledge of FCC radio transmission rules and regulations.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Be at least eighteen years of age;
• Possess a high school diploma or GED equivalency;
• Pass a physical examination including a drug test;
• Be selected for appointment by the Chief of Police;
• Successfully complete a six month probationary period; and
• Receive state "IOWA/NCIC SYSTEM" certification within 180 days of initial employment.

Full-time Communication Specialists must additionally:

• Achieve a passing Civil Service examination score;
• Be included on the Communications Specialist eligibility list certified by the Civil Service Commission; and
• Be selected by the Chief of Police for full-time appointment.