PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Under general supervision, operates a complex communication system for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office; responds to emergency and administrative calls and dispatches public safety and public service personnel and equipment. 

1. Operates a computerized radio console and paging encoder system; receives and transmits radio messages; broadcasts pertinent information as required.
2. Operates an enhanced 911 system and a telephone console; receives and relays messages; directs requests for assistance for police, fire, and ambulances to the appropriate agency; prioritizes calls for service and dispatches in appropriate order; operates a recording device.
3. Maintains a complete log of telephone and radio calls received and transmitted via a computerized dispatching system in accordance with Federal Communication Commission regulations.
4. Inputs data into the computerized dispatching system to produce information for mandated and management reports; enters information into the computer; enters, files, cancels, and verifies data on warrants issued by courts in accordance with applicable state and Federal laws; maintains files and records of no-contact orders issued by the courts; performs tests of emergency communications equipment.
5. Retrieves on-line data and paper file information from a variety of sources and relays information to the appropriate destination.
6. Receives and directs messages, inquiries, and information requests from the public to the appropriate source; releases impounded vehicles in accordance with the applicable laws; maintains building security during non-office hours.
7. Performs related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of Federal Communication Commission rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of Polk County boundaries of jurisdiction.
• Knowledge of State laws pertaining to civil and criminal procedures.
• Knowledge of two way radio communications systems, computer-aided dispatch system, and dispatch policies and procedures 
• Knowledge of the organization of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
• Knowledge of first aide and basic emergency medical dispatch procedures.
• Knowledge of procedures for entering and retrieving information from the IOWA System, National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Systems, and the National Law Enforcement Teletype System (NLETS).
• Knowledge of laws and requirements on working with confidential information and ability to maintain confidentiality of information.
• Ability to verbally communicate accurate information distinctly, accurately, and concisely in a non-emotional manner.
• Ability to effectively listen and elicit appropriate information.
• Ability to operate a two way radio.
• Ability to operate a personal computer utilizing a windows software environment.
• Ability to process electronic mail and utilize word processing software.
• Ability to operate a tele-communications system for the deaf.
• Ability to reason logically, react calmly and quickly, and maintain composure under stress.
• Ability to keep accurate records and to make verbal and written reports.
• Ability to work in close proximity with co-workers.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Skill in dealing with people and situations in a professional and tactful manner.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
• Ability to operate common office equipment such as a facsimile machine, copy machine, time clock, and shredder.
• Demonstrated ability to perform accurate and efficient data entry.
• Ability to hear a conversational voice.
• Ability to read fine print on documents and computerized screens. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective, professional relationships with people from all sectors including other staff, law enforcement personnel, medical personnel, and the general public.

• Graduation from high school or equivalent education, and 
• Six months experience operating radio communication equipment, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements:

• Candidate must pass a written examination and data entry test. 
• Iowa On Line Warrants and Articles and National Crime Information Center certification is required within six months of hire. 
• Completion of Communications Field Training required within six months of hire. 
• Completion of forty hour BASIC Telecommunications program through the IOWA Law Enforcement Academy within one (1) year of appointment is required. 
• Completion of Emergency Medical Dispatching certification within one (1) year of appointment is required. 
• Candidate must have corrected or uncorrected vision of not less than 20/20 in both eyes and pass the Ishihara Test for Color Deficiency.
• Candidate must have normal hearing in both ears with or without use of hearing aids.   
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• A criminal background check is required.