Job Posting Details

County of Gillespie - Job Opportunity

Emergency Communications Operator - Communications Center

Department: Communications

Position/Class Title: Emergency Communications Operator

Pay Grade: 12

FLSA Category: Non-Exempt

General Description

The Emergency Communications Operator assists citizens by receiving emergency calls in a calm and quick manner, gathering information from the caller, and relaying that information to the proper agency. This highly technical position provides an electronic and spoken communications link between citizens and public safety personnel.

Essential Job Duties

• Answer multi-line telephones, including E9-1-1 lines.
• Communicate with hearing/speech-impaired citizens using the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD).
• Communicate effectively, courteously, and clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Simultaneously listen to and comprehend both telephone and radio traffic.
• Comprehend and apply Center policies, procedures, rules, and regulations, as well as City and County ordinances.
• Document and quickly disseminate information on all calls for service, activity, location, and status in the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for public safety personnel.
• Operate the Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System in accordance with TCIC/NCIC policies and procedures.
• Operate a multi-channel public safety radio system.
• Dispatch appropriate public safety personnel for routine and emergency calls for service.
• Read and interpret maps.
• Remain calm under stressful conditions and emergency situations.
• Maintain all required certifications and attend ongoing training and conferences.
• Notify Public Works and Utilities personnel after hours and on weekends for service calls.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements / Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of computer operations, with an emphasis on accuracy and speed.
• Must obtain and maintain a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) CJIS security clearance.
• Applicant must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, hearing test, polygraph test, and psychological test.
• Gillespie County conducts background checks that may include criminal records, credit reports, motor vehicle records, employment records, and educational attainment.

License / Certifications

• A TCOLE Telecommunicator License is preferred but must be obtained within one year of employment.
• Powerphone Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) and Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) certifications must be obtained within 180 days of employment at the discretion of the director.

Working Conditions and Schedules

While performing duties, staff will be exposed to a high-stress environment, including interactions with emotional and hostile individuals, emergency situations, and multi-tasking requirements.

Physical requirements include:

• Daily and prolonged repetitive motor movements.
• Specific vision abilities, including close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Sitting for extended periods.
• Viewing multiple monitors for extended periods.
• Talking on the telephone and radio.
• Walking and stooping.
• Moving supplies and equipment, including lifting, pushing, and pulling loads of 25 pounds or greater.

Normal work schedule includes 8, 10, or 12-hour shifts on a 24/7 basis, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Overtime and unscheduled hours may be required due to workloads, personnel shortages, or emergencies. Employees must record their work hours properly and submit time records promptly to their supervisor. Job-related training may require out-of-town travel with overnight stays.

Application Information

No resume will be accepted in lieu of an application form. Applications can be downloaded from the Gillespie County Employment Opportunities page.

Return completed applications to:

• Email: hr@gillespiecounty.org
• In Person: Gillespie County Courthouse, Room 102-B
• Mail: Gillespie County, 101 W. Main St., Mail Unit #11, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Link to Job Description

Link to Application

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Gillespie County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. A background check will be required of finalists. New or rehired employees must provide documentary proof of their eligibility for employment. Gillespie County is a public employer; therefore, all applications are public information.