JOB SUMMARY:  This position is responsible for performing duties related to the department’s dispatching and jail operations.

SALARY:   $17.12/hr. to $21.40/hr. DOQ

MAJOR DUTIES 

• Be familiar with and follow all Federal, State, and Local laws as well as City of Forney and Forney Police Department policies.
• Answer and process calls, including emergency 911 and general non-emergency and forward calls to appropriate departments; prioritize calls; assign calls to appropriate personnel; determine appropriate response and dispatch emergency personnel as needed; monitor status of responders in the field.
• Monitor surveillance cameras; monitor weather information.
• During critical incidents or special events, coordinate communication between departments and other responding agencies, if applicable. 
• Operate NCIC/TCIC computer system; enter data; retrieve pertinent information such as license plate and criminal history checks; relay information to emergency response personnel; verify reports and data entered during shift.
• 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.
• Receive and process bond/fine money; complete inmate release and time served forms; Notarize documents as needed.
• Assist the general public; provide bond information to inmate family or friends.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisors.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of state and national crime information center database rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of city streets and geography.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
• Knowledge of radio codes and police terminology.
• Knowledge of dispatching procedures.
• Skill in preparing reports and communicating information clearly and effectively.
• Skill in the operation of telecommunications equipment in emergency and non-emergency situations.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS:  The Communications Supervisor assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results. Police and Fire Department supervisors may direct activities during emergencies and critical incidents

GUIDELINES:  Guidelines include standard operating procedures and national and state crime information center rules. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application. 

COMPLEXITY:  The work consists of related administrative, customer service and Emergency Services dispatch. The variety of circumstances encountered contributes to the complexity of the position.

SCOPE AND EFFECT:  The purpose of this position is to dispatch emergency and non-emergency calls and to provide support for jail operations. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of department operations.

PERSONAL CONTACTS:  Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city employees, representatives of other emergency response agencies, inmates, bond agents, and the general public.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS:  Contacts are typically to exchange information, motivate persons, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  The work is typically performed in a dispatch center and detention facility.  Work is typically performed in 12-hour shifts, but may be modified at any time to suit the needs of the department.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: None, with the exception of Communications Training Officers which may serve as the immediate supervisor for Communications Officers in training.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Class “C” Driver’s License issued by the State of Texas.
• Must meet the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements to qualify for a Provisional Telecommunicator license upon appointment, and successfully complete the required training and examinations to obtain a TCOLE Basic Telecommunicator license within one (1) year of hire.
• A combination of education, training, and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.