Police Services Specialist

Job Summary/ Objective:

This is a full-time entry-level position in the Services and Activities Center responsible for the function of records and communications of the Police Department. Work requires extensive knowledge of the department, division or section policies, procedures and services and the ability to communicate these to others. This is a 24 hour a day, seven days a week operation. The Police Services Specialist provides administrative services primarily to officers, along with providing a limited range of services to the public and other agencies.

• Assists division and other department members, other agencies, other public officials, insurance companies, news people, and citizens with reports, records, and information as appropriate.
• Runs "Outstanding Arrest Warrant Checks" as appropriate and locates the actual warrant, including contacting other agencies.
• Interprets and relays "calls for service" information from citizens via telephone or in person to the 911 (EOC) Communications Officer.
• Uses the Department radio system to communicate with and respond to officers as appropriate.
• Inputs records from previous shift's activities
• Records "House Check" requests from citizens and passes them on to Patrol Services.
• Attempts to assure the security and confidentiality of spaces, materials, equipment, files, and information as appropriate.
• Works with a service-oriented attitude, assisting the officers and citizens to the extent possible.
• Operation of the VCIN'NCIC computer system.
• Collect fees for services and other activities that the department participates in.
• Relays the demands, requests and deliveries of people in the department's public access lobby and at the service window.
• Relays telephone calls, messages and other communications to other department members from inside and outside the department.
• Assists officers as requested, or "walk-in" individuals as needed, by contacting appropriate social and community services to arrange for shelter, assistance or whatever can be provided for distressed, dislocated, deranged or victimized citizens.
• Calls and arranges for wrecker service to specific locations as appropriate within the County.
• Files hard copies of records after computer entry has been done and checked.
• Assists with the cleanliness and order of the records and communications’ spaces and associated facilities, equipment and supplies.
• Accurately enter all warrants, protective orders, and stolen property into the RMS and NCIC/VCIN.

Competency: Knowledge/ Skills/Abilities:

• Required knowledge of different types of records, computerized information systems, other local and regional law enforcement agencies, relevant community resources, services and activities, regional geography, roads, and landmarks, and techniques for handling difficult people.
• Skills needed includes written and oral communications, including speaking clearly in telephone etiquette and in writing.
• Ability to understudy and evaluate what is being communicated by the client so as to best provide information, advice and referrals in performing record keeping, data input, retrieval and relaying of information in a precise, detail-oriented, thorough and consistent manner.
• Ability to read and interpret complex manuals need to summarize information.
• Ability to be sincere, confident, outgoing and knowledgeable person who can work independently; and possess the skill to be self-motivated to work cooperatively in a group.
• The ability to maintain a strong client-service orientation, demonstrate a sincere interest for caring for people while operating effectively in stressful situations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when processing information.

Required Education and Experience:

• Graduation from high school or equivalent with keyboarding skills a must.
• Familiarity with personal computers, copiers, and hardcopy filing system.
• Must successfully complete a background investigation and polygraph examination.
• Must maintain a clean criminal record, having a lifestyle free of moral turpitude, of the use of illegal drugs, and of breaches of confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications/Certifications:

• Post high school education or training in communications, writing skills, or equivalent experience.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Work occurs predominately at workstation within the Records and Communications Office.
• Must be able focus on daily task steadfastly for the full shift, be alert for calls and requests, and able to respond quickly.
• Occasional duties beyond the normal shift hours are necessary.
• Occasional meetings, delivery of material and training occurring outside the office are required. Requires daily contact at all levels of the Police Department.

• Regular contact with members of other departments, agencies and services, monitored, usually by telephone or other telecommunications, daily contact with the public over the telephone and at the public service window.
• Contacts may be confrontational and require tact, diplomacy and possible referral to a supervisor or co-worker.
• Must be able to stay calm in stressful situations.
• Occasional handling of emergency situations is required.

Remote Work:

This position is not eligible for remote work. All County staff must maintain residence within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Salary Range:
The salary range for this position is $24.98 - $27.61 (approx. $51,954 - $57,422 per year). Starting offer is based on applicable education beyond minimum, experience and internal equity. The position also provides excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, VRS retirement, and continuing education/training opportunities. This is a full time, FLSA Non-exempt position. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

Deadline for Applications:

Position open until filled

Albemarle County Core Values:

Albemarle County holds its employees to the highest standards in fulfilling the County’s Vision and Mission. We believe in excellence in public service through

Community: We expect diversity, equity and inclusion to be integrated into how we live our mission.

Integrity: We value our customers and co-workers by always providing honest and fair treatment.

Innovation: We embrace creativity and positive change.

Stewardship: We honor our role as stewards of the public trust by managing our natural, human, and financial resources respectfully and responsibly.

Learning: We encourage and support lifelong learning and personal and professional growth.