Police Communications Technician

Job Specifications

POLICE COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN                            CODE NO. 71012

OCCUPATIONAL GROUP {292}

POLICE COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities

In the Police Department Communications Division, under direct supervision, serves as a 911 emergency operator; obtains necessary information from callers in order to initiate emergency assistance; performs clerical, administrative and other duties related to the provision of emergency service; serves as a radio dispatcher of police resources; performs related work.

Incumbents may be required to work rotating tours for shifts around the clock, including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Examples of Typical Tasks

As a 911 emergency operator:  answers telephone calls for assistance coming in via the 911 emergency number; determines nature and priority-code of emergency; inputs information into computer terminal; revises information already inputted in the computer; transmits information to Radio Dispatcher, Emergency Medical Service or other response unit; refers callers to appropriate city agencies for non-emergency assistance; and other related tasks.

As a radio dispatcher:  analyzes information on incidents received via computer from the 911 operator to determine order, means and extent of response; dispatches police units via radio/telephone; maintains control of units via radio/telephone; coordinates chases and close pursuits; types interim and final disposition codes into computer; performs vehicle license and registration checks; and other related tasks.

Qualification Requirements

A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent; plus

1.          One year of satisfactory full-time responsible experience performing clerical or typing or secretarial work; or

2.          One year of satisfactory full-time responsible experience dealing with the public, including the obtaining of information from persons; or

3.          The successful completion of 30 college credits in an accredited college or university; or

4.          Two years of active U.S. military duty with honorable discharge; or

5.          Education or experience equivalent to 1, 2, 3, or 4 above.  However, all candidates must have a four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent.

Direct Lines of Promotion

From:  None                                                To:   Supervising Police Communications Technician          

                                                                                      (71013)

Draft R 3.1.96