Communications Operator Spotsylvania County, VA, $32,462 a year

Receives incoming emergency and non-emergency calls to the communications center; obtains essential information; determines proper method of handling calls; prepares records of calls and dispatch information; receives complaints and requests for information and assists/refers callers to appropriate agency or staff. 

This position is essential. Personnel occupying this position may be scheduled to work irrespective of weather conditions and/or when general County offices are closed.

Special Duties & Responsibilities: ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Receives incoming calls to the communications center including emergency, non-emergency and Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf (TDD) calls. Obtains information pertaining to the nature of the call (criminal offenses, accidents, fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, etc.); prioritizes call according to the nature and severity; and determines proper method of handling call.

Elicits pertinent information regarding the nature and severity of the situation, its location and other essential information.

Provides assistance to the caller by working to keep caller calm, providing CPR and other medical instructions as appropriate, and providing other information regarding the arrival of assistance, safety issues, etc.

Provides information, answers questions and/or refers caller to appropriate staff or to appropriate department or agency, such as court offices, etc.

Operates enhanced 911 and associated automated equipment; logs incoming calls and dispatch related information into an automated system; and maintains records of calls and dispatching activities.

Answers administrative phone lines for Crime Solvers, Criminal Investigation Division, Civil Process and Sheriff's Office after hours.

Notifies other agencies and personnel during emergencies or disaster situations as directed; and makes additional notification as required.

Monitors alarms; ensures equipment's readiness and functionality.

Documents errors and performance problems with 911 system and other equipment; informs supervisor of problems with equipment and need for repair.

Contacts wrecker services as appropriate.

Monitors and conducts tests of the County's natural warning and alarm system.

Creates and maintains VCIN/NCIC Records for wanted person, missing persons, stolen/missing articles, and maintaining protective orders.

Researches past calls for deputies to help obtain essential information for current call/paperwork.

Trains new operators as needed.

Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Training & Experience: HS/GED, 1 – 2 years of experience as a receptionist in an environment with a high volume of calls and performed duties requiring typing, 

data entry or any equivalent combination of training/experience. Minimum typing speed 35 wpm. Successfully complete a preliminary background check, 

work performance test (including typing), oral interview, polygraph examination, background investigation and drug screen. 

Candidate will be required to exhibit flexibility with work schedule assignments based on the centers immediate needs (approx. 84/hrs. bi-weekly, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., rotating shifts, nights and weekends). 

Submitted applications will be considered for current vacancies and assist to create an eligibility list. 9-1-1 emergency dispatch experienced applicants preferred.

Special Requirements: Note: Further details regarding this process will be provided to each applicant once the employment application and background pre-screening worksheet are received.