Public Safety Telecommunicator

Overview

Job Title:

Public Safety Telecommunicator I

Hiring Range: $21.04-$24.57

We will train you at Buncombe County Public Safety Communications Center. If you have experience working with customers in call center roles, banking, customer service, clerical work, or related fields, this may be a great fit. Prior telecommunicator experience is also welcome.

The Buncombe County Public Safety Communications Center is a lifeline from the public to emergency services. We provide training from an entry-level Call Taker to a certified Telecommunicator so that you can help ensure a successful outcome during emergencies by coordinating the right resources. We dispatch and coordinate the response of Fire Departments, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Medical Services daily. If you want to make a difference, we want you on our team helping provide critical lifesaving services in our community.

You can read about our talented employees here. Some Telecommunicators have shared their experiences about the work they do, including training from day one and teamwork across departments.

The purpose of this position is the responsible and timely operation of communication equipment to receive and transmit emergency calls for the Buncombe County Emergency Services Department.

• Receiving emergency and non-emergency calls from the public through the emergency telephone system

• Obtaining pertinent information from callers to determine the nature and location of the emergency

• Prioritizing and dispatching calls for service for all three emergency service disciplines (fire, police, and medical)

• Handling radio requests from emergency response units

• Maintaining location and status information of emergency response units

• Maintaining accurate and timely records

• Providing information or referral options to the public as requested

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Required at time of hire:
High school diploma or GED, and a minimum of one (1) year of experience as a Public Service call taker, dispatcher or telecommunicator; or a current Buncombe County Call Taker that has completed all trainings under that classification.

Within eighteen (18) months of hire the incumbent must complete two Telecommunicator Tracks.

Telecommunicator Certification

• Knowledge of rules, regulations, and procedures, including safety procedures, such as CPR and first aid.

• Knowledge of telecommunications systems, including transmission, broadcasting, switching systems, and computerized databases, including teletype operations and procedures.

• Knowledge of basic dispatch codes, standard abbreviations, and industry terminology used by emergency medical services and law enforcement agencies.

• Knowledge of the geographical layout of the County, including streets, important buildings, and landmarks.

• Ability to use logic and reasoning to reach conclusions and solve problems

• Ability to exercise judgment and decision-making to evaluate situations, establish priorities, and resolve matters

• Ability to work under stressful situations

• Ability to listen actively and communicate effectively through clear speech and hearing

• Ability to establish priorities and pass on information as needed

• Ability to elicit information necessary for proper dispatching from distressed individuals

• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations

• Ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and professionally

• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public

• Ability to maintain files, records and reports

We are committed to building an inclusive workforce and encourage applicants who may not meet every exact qualification to apply. Buncombe County uses a substantial equivalency standard so degrees or formal education are not strictly required if relevant work experience is present.

In order to uphold internal pay parity and equity, salaries are non-negotiable for new and current Buncombe County employees. All new employees are paid according to their years of relevant education and experience above minimum requirements. Employees have the opportunity to obtain pay increases via cost of living increases and promotions.

Buncombe County Government is committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, age, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected class. Workplaces are to be free of harassment or discrimination.

Applicants may participate in the affirmative action program. Responses are confidential and used only for the necessary information to include in the program. Buncombe County values diversity and encourages women, minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to…