Communications Officer

We're still looking for the right candidate to join our team! Under general supervision, this position answers emergency and non-emergency calls for service, dispatches police, firefighting, medical, rescue, animal control, and/or other emergency equipment, by telephone or radio, utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer-aided dispatch systems and crime information databases.  

We encourage qualified applicants to submit an application at: https://www.forneytx.gov/ and take advantage of this opportunity to join the City of Forney.

***PLEASE NOTE: Complete the Work History section in full, including all relevant past employment. Resumes may be attached to the application however will NOT be accepted in lieu of the official application form ***

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.
 

• Answers incoming emergency and non-emergency calls and two-way radio transmissions; analyzes conflicting and/or limited location information to direct first responders to the emergency scene; projects positive support of the City organizations at all times.
• Interviews callers and analyzes details; prioritizes calls for service and determines appropriate personnel to respond; dispatches calls for service; relays pertinent information to first responders concisely; provides information and assistance to the public within the scope of authority.
• Gathers, analyzes, and reports critical call information to officers and firefighters; maintains status and awareness of Police and Fire units; continuously monitors radio and phone traffic and relays updated vital information to first responders.
• Performs inquiries and criminal history checks for officers through TCIC & NCIC; initiates inquiries to other agencies for warrant confirmations or general information.
• Enters data for records and reports; processes forms and record files; queries various specialized databases as required.
• Notifies supervisory personnel on critical incidents; follows all Department policies and procedures to ensure that first responder and citizen safety is the top priority.
• Maintains confidentiality as proscribed by legal statute, agency policy, or other governing directives.
• Search prisoners at the request of the arresting officer; monitor jail operations; maintain and update jail log; coordinate inmate packets; deliver meals, medication, and sanitary supplies to inmates; wash jail laundry as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

 
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: No direct supervision exercised.

• Possess a valid driver's license.
• High school graduation or equivalent 
• At least 1 year of experience in a high-volume call center or 9-1-1 dispatch work environment; OR
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Valid Telecommunications Basic or Intermediate Operator Certification from the Texas Commission of Law Enforcement (TCOLE), or ability to earn certification within one (1) year of employment. 

 
Special Requirements: Obtain TCIC/NCIC access and a CJIS Security Awareness certification within 6 months.


The following Certifications are a PLUS:

• Communications Training Officer Certification
• Emergency Police Dispatcher Certification
• Crisis Communications Certification 
• Active Shooter (Assailant) Training Course 
• Monthly Continuing Education Certifications