Emergency Communications Dispatcher (9-1-1 Specialist)

City of Colonial Heights (Contract); Colonial Heights (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

retirement plan

Job summary

The City of Colonial Heights is seeking a Communications Officer to join the Emergency Communications Center of the Fire & EMS Department. The role handles 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls, using CAD, GIS, and related systems to dispatch units and provide critical information under pressure.

Ideal candidates possess a high school diploma (or equivalent) with 3+ years of experience, and state certifications such as VCIN/NCIC Level A, EMD, and CPR/AED.

Qualifications

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent with at least 3 years of experience.
• Be a US citizen.
• Have no felony convictions.
• Type 50 wpm.
• Be able to speak clearly.
• Must possess or obtain VCIN/NCIC Level A certification and maintain certification throughout employment.
• Must possess or obtain Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) and CPR/AED certifications, and maintain certifications throughout employment.
• Pass all phases of the Communications Officer selection process (written test, panel interview, background check, typing proof, medical and drug screening).
• Must be available to work 12-hour shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, on-call, and overtime.

Responsibilities

• Serves as primary point of contact for reporting all 9-1-1 emergencies and non-emergency calls.
• Represents the City and Department in a professional manner with high customer service.
• Provides information or directions to callers and public safety agencies, following policies.
• Operates CAD, GIS mapping tools and other systems to triage and process calls for service.
• During life-threatening emergencies, conveys safety instructions and maintains control until units arrive.
• Interacts with distressed callers and public safety personnel to communicate information clearly.
• Gathers and enters pertinent information into CAD per protocols.
• Establishes communications with hearing-impaired callers via TTY.
• Updates statewide and national databases and ensures accuracy.

Skills

Typing 50 wpm

Decision making

Speak clearly

Public safety dispatch

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CAD system

Job description

The City of Colonial Heights is seeking a Communications Officer to join the Emergency Communications Center of the Fire & EMS Department. The role handles 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls, using CAD, GIS, and related systems to dispatch units and provide critical information under pressure.

Ideal candidates possess a high school diploma (or equivalent) with 3+ years of experience, and state certifications such as VCIN/NCIC Level A, EMD, and CPR/AED.