Public Safety Telecommunicator - Trainee

Forsyth County Government; Cumming (GA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Forsyth County Government is seeking an entry-level Public Safety Telecommunicator. The role involves receiving emergency calls, participating in training, and logging dispatch information. Candidates should have a high school diploma and the ability to work under supervision. This safety-sensitive position entails various administrative and communication tasks under close supervision.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Typing speed of 35 WPM needed.
• Successful background investigation required.

Responsibilities

• Receive and respond to emergency 911 calls.
• Participate in training to learn emergency communication basics.
• Maintain logs and update databases.

Skills

Communication

Record Keeping

Multi-tasking

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Communication Equipment

Automated Systems

Job description

The purpose of this classification is to receive and respond to calls coming into the County’s emergency 911 communication system. This classification is an entry-level, trainee position. A Public Safety Telecommunicator’s work is expected to progress along a continuum of responsibility beginning with participation in an in-house training program and ending with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of a Public Safety Telecommunicator, Senior in a fully competent, responsible, and independent manner. All work is performed under close supervision of senior officers. Some essential functions require completion of certification or training modules.

Essential Functions

1. Participates in in-house training and attends training courses as assigned to learn the basics of emergency communications, policies, and procedures; shadows senior officers; demonstrates proficiency in training modules.
2. Receives emergency 911 calls, including TDD and language line calls; obtains information, calms callers, provides pre-arrival instructions, and monitors response status.
3. Handles non-emergency calls, providing information, answering questions, and transferring calls as needed.
4. Logs calls and dispatch information into automated systems; maintains records and updates databases.
5. Contacts other departments to resolve issues like road hazards or utility problems.
6. Monitors radio frequencies and cameras; responds to requests for services and records activities.
7. Assists other jurisdictions; contacts agencies like GEMA, GSP, DNR, DFACS, DJJ, etc., for assistance.
8. Handles inquiries related to driver’s licenses, warrants, stolen property, and wanted persons.
9. Notifies personnel of critical situations and maintains logs of daily activities.
10. Performs administrative tasks such as data entry, document preparation, and record maintenance.
11. Operates communication equipment including GCIC, CAD, TDD, fax, and office tools.
12. Coordinates with law enforcement agencies on investigations.

Additional Functions

This is a safety-sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing. Additional duties include clerical support and housekeeping tasks.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; little or no experience required.
• Successful background investigation.
• Typing speed of 35 WPM.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license.
• U.S. Citizen (POST requirement).

Hiring Process

Applicants must submit an online application. Selected candidates will undergo testing (typing, CritiCall), interviews, polygraph, background check, psychological evaluation, and drug testing. The process takes approximately 30-45 days. Reapplication is permitted after one year if not selected.