Overview
The Communication Specialist Technician, under the supervision of the Communication Center Supervisor, is responsible for coordinating air and ground transports, performing office/clerical tasks, and handling preliminary billing. Communications are conducted via phone, radio, verbal, text, and written word. The specialist/technician must be able to work independently and project a positive image as a customer service representative at all times.
Responsibilities
Operations- Utilize all communication modes to support air and ground operations.
- Gather patient information from various sources.
- Coordinate with clinical crews and notify flight crews, including gathering patient equipment needs and managing arrivals at airports and hospitals.
- Maintain awareness of aircraft/unit locations via radio and land-line communication to ensure safety and efficiency, and to handle diversions or overdue units.
- Notify hospitals and ground transport of estimated times of arrival (ETAs).
- Operate current communication systems proficiently.
- Assist in orienting new Communication Specialists/Technicians.
- Apply navigation techniques, terminology, transport tracking, and map skills.
- Lead shift activities, hold team members accountable, liaise with AOC if needed, and promote excellent customer service.
- Participate in bi-monthly meetings with the Communication Center Coordinator.
- Mentor junior staff and identify competency gaps, collaborating with the Education Committee and Coordinator to address them.
- Perform additional duties as required by management or administrative best practices.
- Respond promptly to all responsibilities, including filling shifts or responding to calls to maintain staffing levels.
Documentation- Use dispatch software for data entry, reporting, and statistics.
- Obtain prior authorizations and prepare long-distance flight quotes.
- Participate in quality assurance audits of Flight Vector documentation.
- Become a super user of Flight Vector.
- Create and update communication center posts regarding processes and policies.
- Assist in reviewing and editing training materials and procedures.
Compliance/Safety- Report safety incidents promptly via the Midas/RDE tool.
- Attend safety training and ensure a safe work environment.
- Complete mandatory training modules and stay compliant with regulations and policies.
- Maintain valid certifications and licenses as required.
Qualifications
- Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
- Certifications & Licenses: Approved Flight Dispatch Certification required; Heartsaver or RQI/BLS preferred.
- Experience: EMS/Medical background and dispatching experience preferred; at least 2 years of air medical dispatch experience at Guardian Air Transport preferred. Must be in good standing with GAT, NAH, and the Communications Center, with no corrective actions.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
Note: No on-call required.