Public Safety Telecommunicator I – 24/7 Dispatch & Training

County of Chester; Westtown (Chester County); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

County of Chester is seeking a Telecommunicator I to be the first point of contact for the public, making decisions based on policies and dispatching appropriate help. The role requires 24/7 availability, rotating 12-hour shifts, and routine on-the-job training with overtime rules.

The position emphasizes accuracy, calm under pressure, and effective communication while coordinating with emergency responders and the EOC as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Strong listening and communication skills with clear English proficiency and accurate grammar and spelling.
• Ability to complete three months training.
• Ability to perform under extreme pressure.
• APCO Basic Telecommunication certification or ability to obtain.
• CPR/TDD/HAZMAT awareness or ability to learn CPR/TDD/HAZMAT awareness.
• APCO EMD certification or ability to obtain Certification.
• FEMA IS100, IS200, IS700, IS800, IS2200 within 6 months of hire.
• Pennsylvania call-taker certification or ability to obtain certification.

Responsibilities

• Handle and process emergency calls promptly and professionally.
• Input emergency calls for dispatch to responders.
• Maintain certification requirements.
• Assist with quality improvement programs.
• Maintain continuing education requirements.
• Train new personnel after certification.
• Provide emergency medical instructions.
• Review and submit caller location corrections.
• Review and submit CAD data corrections.
• Assist with procedural updates.
• Assist with public and responder education.
• Support Emergency Operations Center activations and drills.

Skills

Active listening

Clear communication

Work under pressure

English literacy

Public safety awareness

Team collaboration

Ability to follow protocols

Customer service

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Chester County CAD system

APCO telecommunication certifications

Job description

County of Chester is seeking a Telecommunicator I to be the first point of contact for the public, making decisions based on policies and dispatching appropriate help. The role requires 24/7 availability, rotating 12-hour shifts, and routine on-the-job training with overtime rules.

The position emphasizes accuracy, calm under pressure, and effective communication while coordinating with emergency responders and the EOC as needed.