About This Role
The Telecommunicator operates an enhanced 911 emergency system, receiving and dispatching emergency calls for Forsyth County Department of Emergency Services. This role suits a dedicated professional who can respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations, using sound judgment to make critical decisions.
Responsibilities
- Answer 911 calls requesting emergency assistance
- Ask callers appropriate questions to determine the proper response needed
- Verify and obtain all needed information to correctly dispatch the call
- Dispatch municipal, county, and volunteer fire personnel and equipment
- Determine appropriate fire department and amount of response based on computer information and standard operating procedures
- Monitor frequency for any additional assistance
- Dispatch ALS/BLS vehicles and emergency medical service personnel to respond to medical emergencies
- Assign calls to first responders and medic units as necessary
- Categorize fire/medical calls and provide prearrival instructions for emergencies based on protocols established by APCO
- Respond promptly to all mutual aid requests from adjoining counties
- Monitor calls from a large number of state and local units transmitting messages
- Patch in out of county ambulances to local hospitals
- Operate a wide range of very complex equipment in performing the functions of the position
- Maintain auxiliary equipment as required
- Complete all associated paperwork accurately
- Perform related duties as assigned
Requirements
- Considerable knowledge of rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission
- Considerable knowledge of the operation of a wide variety of complex communications equipment and ability to use all equipment
- Considerable knowledge of the locations and capabilities of available fire, rescue, and emergency medical units
- Ability to communicate effectively emergency medical dispatch protocols
- Ability to hear and speak clearly and remain calm during emergency situations
- Ability to make quick decisions in handling emergency situations
- Ability to direct the daily activities of an assigned shift
- Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees
- Graduation from high school or GED and one year experience in emergency services communications or graduation from high school or GED and two years experience in a related public safety field
- Successfully pass a stringent criminal background check, as this position is subject to working in high security areas governed by the U.S. Department of Justice's Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy
