Communications Officer 1

Full Job Description

A Communications Officer 1 will receive training in law enforcement and emergency communications operations and procedures, transmitting, receiving, and relaying information concerning public safety and law enforcement activities to, from, and between State Patrol mobile units and stations, other State, county, and Federal law enforcement agencies, and the public by means of radio, multi-line telephone systems, computer terminals, private line intercom systems, and other telecommunications devices.

In a Communications Center, a Communications Officer 1's primary responsibility is to to efficiently multi-task technologies answering emergency 911 and business phone calls, entering and updating calls for service and self-initiated activity into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Computer system and transmitting and receiving radio communications from field personnel.

These critical responsibilities are the lifeline for officers in the field and the first contact with the public who report emergency situations requiring police, fire or medical response.


A Communications Officer Assistant's primary responsibility is to efficiently answer emergency 911 and business phone calls and enter/update calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.

About the Division:
The Communications Division employees are true first responders and are the lifeline for our Troopers and many contracted agencies. Located in seven communications centers throughout Washington State, Communications Officers provide around-the-clock professional emergency support to the WSP, federal, state, local and tribal agencies. Communications Officers answer 911 calls and initiate emergency services to meet the needs of the public and officers in the field.

Qualifications

Successful Communications Officers come from many backgrounds. We emphasize strong communication skills, the ability to build effective working relationships, and a strong desire for professional development.

Required Experience & Education:

• High school graduate or GED equivalent.
• Typing speed of 40 wpm

Performance Standards:

• Work weekends, days off, holidays, and rotating shifts; e.g., continuous five-work-days-per-week shifts that rotate each 28 days to a different schedule of regular days and hours per week.
• Have dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including a computer keyboard.
• Ability to respond to visual and sound stimuli with a high degree of accuracy in a timely manner.
• Ability to distinguish colors.
• Have adequate hearing and visual acuity to successfully perform the essential job functions.
• Ability to effectively communicate orally (using radio equipment) and in writing.
• Ability to effectively communicate with and assist upset, confused, or otherwise distressed customers due to heightened emotions.
• Willing to work long, extended or adjusted hours and respond on short notice to work.
• Accept counseling and guidance from supervisors.
• Accept responsibility for issued equipment.
• Refrain from lying, cheating, or stealing.

Residency Requirement:
Because of the nature of the Communications Officer 1 duties this position may be subject to emergency call-out. As a result of this, Communications Officer 1's are required to live within seventy-five (75) miles from their assigned duty station.

Additional Information

Applicants claiming veterans preference must attach a copy of their DD214 (SSN must be blacked out). If you do not provide the required documentation, the veterans preference will not be awarded. Please click here to determine your eligibility.

Questions?