Emergency Communications Trainee (Pipeline)

Salary Range: $56,189.64 - $56,189.64

Job Description: Works under the general direction of an assigned supervisor in the Communications Service Center. Operates a computer-aided telephone, dispatch and digital trunked simulcast radio system in order to provide emergency and routine dispatcher services to officers and the public. Collects and records information received by documenting the nature of the call, location and circumstances of the call, description of the responsible parties and/or suspects, and the name and number of the caller. Determines the order of response to emergency and non-emergency calls based on available resources. Researches geographical information to assist Police Officers in responding to emergency and non-emergency calls. Maintains status of field units using the CAD system via trunked radio system. Broadcasts information to dispatch units and to provide descriptions of suspects; monitors travel and scene times to evaluate unit status and determine officers' safety. Updates various lists and files to secure required wrecker and ambulance services and to have accurate and timely information available for callers requesting service. Attains and maintains State of Tennessee certification through approved training for public safety dispatcher on the National Crime Information Center (NCIC)/Tennessee Information Enforcement Systems (TIES)/National Law Enforcement Telecommunications Systems (NLETS). Provides Police Officers with information on stolen vehicles, wanted persons, criminal history, etc. by accessing the TIES, NCIC and NLETS databases and enters information into and responds to inquiries from other law enforcement agencies through these systems.

Responsibilities: Performs additional functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned from time to time. Bilingual abilities strongly preferred. Requires the use of equipment such as video/monitor receivers, computer-aided telephones, radio and dispatch systems to review information and check the status of particular events; operates TTD telephone for the hearing and speech impaired. Requires the ability to communicate effectively to obtain and record information from the caller. Ability to simultaneously perform multiple tasks. Ability to recognize potential life and safety hazards or other critical aspects and to dispatch accordingly for effective coverage of the incident. Ability to maintain composure and to deal effectively with people in emergency situations. Involves contact with staff and police personnel and various other emergency responders. The E-9-1-1 PSAP/Communications service center is highly secured enclosed area. Incumbents must remain at the assigned workstation except for designated break and lunch periods and are not allowed to leave their radio dispatch position without a relief dispatcher. Since incumbents perform duties in proximity with each other, background noise from calls received by other incumbents may be distracting. May be required to work various shifts, holidays, weekends, and rotate days off.

Qualifications: Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age. Must be a citizen of the United States. Must not have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to any felony charge or to any violation of any federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling, liquor, or controlled substances. For those who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States, type of release/discharge must be "honorable". High school graduate or equivalent; must type at least 35 words per minute typing score on tests designated by Personnel; must successfully pass a battery of psychological tests, a Structured Interview Board, reading test, and dispatch test; must have effective written and interpersonal skills; geographical knowledge of the City of Memphis is preferred; or any combination of experience or training which enables one to perform the essential job functions. All candidates must successfully pass a criminal justice employment background check to work within the Police Services Division.