Travis County, TX
(911 Dispatch) Telecommunications 9-1-1 Specialist
Travis County, TX, Austin, Texas, us, 78716
Salary:
$54,770.35 - $67,093.68 Annually
Location :
Austin, TX
Job Type:
Full Time
Job Number:
24-09608
Department:
Sheriff
Opening Date:
11/21/2024
Closing Date:
12/5/2024 11:59 PM Central
Job Summary
Do you want to be a first responder while enjoying the benefits of an air-conditioned office? Do you like a fast-paced work environment where no two days are exactly the same. Are you good with a keyboard and have great multi-tasking skills? Are you a good listener? Are you able to be the calm voice in stressful or chaotic situations?
If you answered yes to these questions, a job as a Telecommunications Specialist - 9-1-1 dispatcher might be for you. This position is located at our Combined Transportation, Emergency and Communication Center and focuses on supporting our community. 9-1-1 Specialists are the first point of contact on 9-1-1 and coordinate Law Enforcement, EMS, and Fire response.
This is a great position for those interested in developing their critical response skills in a rewarding and fast-paced environment, and who desire a competitive Total Rewards Package. Travis County offers one of the highest-rated retirement plans. We also offer vacation and sick leave, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, personal holidays, 12 company holidays, and longevity pay. Additionally, Telecommunicators are eligible for licensing pay and shift differential for evening and night shifts.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is the first in a series of three telecommunications-related job classifications within the Public Safety/Emergency Management job family. This classification is distinguished from the Telecommunications 9-1-1 Senior in that incumbents typically specialize in a division/department function and also possess broader knowledge/skills about division/department operation to allow more independence in carrying out responsibilities. May be required to work on rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays. This classification may require a flexible work schedule in order to meet the needs of the department.
Duties and Responsibilities
Answers incoming emergency (9-1-1) and non-emergency calls. Operates emergency telecommunications networks equipment used in receiving and relaying information in response to emergency calls. Refers emergency fire and EMS calls by communicating with persons verbally over telephone and radio equipment. Ensures callers are transferred to appropriate agencies. Maintains telephone contact with callers during critical incidents and updates dispatch card with information pertaining to the call. Keeps caller calm and focused. Controls the call to quickly and accurately obtain necessary information. Operates telephone device for the hearing impaired (TDD) to ensure emergency services is provided. Accesses Language Line to ensure appropriate emergency response. Operates a radio system in accordance with FCC rules and regulations. Dispatches units to various calls for services. Coordinates, performs and controls multiple 9-1-1 communication multiple-simultaneous tasks on demand. Obtains and relays information to patrol officers and staff through telecommunications networks using a Computer Aided Dispatch Terminal (CAD), NCIC, TCIC, and TLETS. Uses log, runs inquiries, researches and enters information, assigns case numbers and maintains databases. Uses laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures for ensuring proper response to the public calls for assistance and inquiry. May interpret maps and other legal location description documents. Obtains appropriate information from calls via 9-1-1 telephone system. Processes information and data in accordance with TCSO policies and legal requirements. May operate a County vehicle for business purposes and under non-emergency conditions. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements
Education and Experience: High School diploma or G.E.D. AND one (1) year of telecommunications experience or equivalent, including one (1) year of computer experience;
OR,
Any combination of education and experience that has been achieved and is equivalent to the stated education and experience and required knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job.
Licenses,
Registrations,
Certifications,
or
Special
Requirements: Incumbents are required to pass an exam administered by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) in order to obtain their Basic Telecommunicator license within the first year of employment. This license must be maintained throughout employment as a 9-1-1 Telecommunications Specialist. Must be a U.S. Citizen
Preferred: Valid Texas Driver's License. Typing Speed: 40 words per minute or greater . Experience in Telecommunications. Experience in law enforcement telecommunications and CAD systems. Bilingual in English and Spanish. Experience with TLETS/NCIC/TCIC and OpenFox.
Applicants are encouraged to attach a resume with the online applications.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
9-1-1 concepts and equipment functions. Federal, State, Local and County communications laws, rules, regulations and guidelines. Law enforcement computer databases and telecommunications networks. Basic telephone courtesy and functional knowledge. Computer equipment to include word processing, spreadsheets, databases and a variety of software packages. Skill in:
Operating a variety of modern office equipment, including a computer. Both verbal and written communication. Ability to:
Gain working knowledge of the physical County geography layout. Communicate clearly, concisely and with professional tact both verbally and in writing. Perform on demand, in a highly stressful environment, while maintaining a professional manner. Perform multiple-simultaneous tasks on demand. React and remain calm under stress and make quick and calm decisions in emergency situations. Understand and carry out verbal and written directions/instructions. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with departmental clientele, representatives of outside agencies, other County employees and officials, and the general public.
Work Environment & Other Information
Physical requirements include the ability to lift/carry up to 20-40 pounds and pushing/pulling with force up to 20-40 pounds, occasionally. Subject to constant sitting, reaching, talking, audition, and exercise of fine dexterity, occasional standing, walking, climbing, kneeling/crouching, bending/squatting, and gripping/grasping to perform the essential functions. Subject to job related stress and client/customer communications within the confines of the communication center. Work requires 24-hours/7-days a week.
Travis County employees play an important role in business continuity. As such, employees can be assigned to business continuity efforts outside of normal job functions.
This job description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.
Work Hours: Work Hours Vary, Works some holidays, nights, or weekends. 10-hour shifts 24 hour per day operation 7 days per week
Location: Austin, TX
Department: Sheriff
Criminal Background Check, Credit Check, TCOLE, Driving Record, Physical Exam, Drug Test, Alcohol Test, Psychological Test, Education, and Employment History Check Required.
Benefits Employment at Travis County comes with a full array of benefits. We offer comprehensive health insurance, a no-cost, on-site Health and Wellness clinic, longevity pay, paid vacations, sick time and personal holidays, not to mention an industry competitive salary structure and a friendly, stable work environment. FY2025 Travis County Benefit Guide
In this valuable you will find benefit summaries, eligibility requirements, costs, contact numbers and addresses as well as other general information on the benefits available to Travis County Employees and Retirees.
Credit Union Employees may join the Travis County Credit Union which offers low-interest loans, savings plans through payroll deduction, safe deposit boxes and other benefits.
Deferred Compensation Employees may enroll in a tax- free sheltered investment plan through payroll deduction.
Direct Deposit Employees may sign up for direct bank deposit.
Employee Assistance Program Travis County provides a confidential counseling and referral service free of charge to county employees and their family.
Employee Organizations Membership in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Union is available through payroll deduction.
Employee Health & Wellness Clinic Employees may access the clinic for a variety of wellness program and health care services with no co-pay, no deductible and no co-insurance costs.
Holidays An average of eleven paid holidays are designated by the Travis County Commissioners Court at the beginning of each fiscal year.
Insurance Employees may select from four plans: an Exclusive Physician Organization (EPO), Choice Plus Preferred Physician Organization (PPO), Consumer Choice or a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA). All four options include a Pharmacy Plan. Travis County's current policy is to pay 100% of the employee's health insurance premium for the Consumer Choice and HDHP. Employees will pay a premium for both the EPO and PPO. Other insurance benefits include $50,000 Basic Life and AD&D paid by the County.
The following benefits are employee paid:
Dental Vision Supplemental Life, AD&D Dependent Life Short Term Disability Long Term Disability Long Term Care
New employees are covered on the first day of the month following 28 calendar days of employment.
Longevity Longevity pay is paid for each year completed after three years of continuous service. Peace Officers in a law enforcement activity, whose job requires state peace officer certification, receive pay after one year of certification.
On the regular payday on or after the employee's fourth and subsequent adjusted service dates, he or she receives a single payment for the previous year.
Parking A limited number of assigned parking spaces are available to employees in the Courthouse Complex.
Personal Holidays Regular, full-time employees are eligible for up to three paid personal holidays each calendar year. Part-time employees shall be granted personal holidays on a prorated basis. New employees earn personal holidays for the calendar year in which he/she begins employment, based on the month in which employment begins:
January - March
3 personal holidays
April - June
2 personal holidays
July - September
1 personal holiday
October - December
None
New employees are eligible to take personal holidays after 90 days of employment. Retirement Travis County is a member of the Texas County & District Retirement System with mandatory participation by certain classes of employees. Seven percent (7%) of the gross salary is deducted each pay period. An employee is fully vested after eight years of service. Benefits are prorated for part-time employees.
Sick Leave Regular employees earn sick leave at a rate of eight hours per month with unlimited accrual during employment. Part-time employees earn sick leave on a pro-rated basis.
Parental Leave Each Full-time Paid Parental Leave Eligible (PPL) Employee is entitled to a total of 320 hours of Paid Parental Leave in a 12 month period. Paid Parental Leave for Part-time PPL Eligible Employees is prorated based on the number of hours that they are regularly scheduled to work.
Tuition Refund Certain classes of full-time employees may receive reimbursement for fees associated with pre-approved, job related course work completed satisfactorily.
Vacation Based on years of county service, regular, full-time employees earn vacation time at the following rates:
0 to 5 years
4.0 hours per pay period
6 to 10 years
4.5 hours per pay period
11 to 15 years
5.0 hours per pay period
16 to 20 years
5.5 hours per pay period
21 plus years
6.0 hours per pay period
Part-time employees earn vacation leave on a pro-rated basis. Workers' Compensation The county provides all employees workers' compensation coverage with benefits in accordance with state statute, if the employee sustains an injury out of, or in the course of work.
01
Have you ever worked as a dispatcher/Telecommunicator for a Law Enforcement Agency, Fire Agency, EMS Agency, or call center for a private business?
Yes No
02
How many years of Law Enforcement dispatch experience do you have in radio dispatching?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
03
How many years of Law Enforcement dispatch experience do you have in 9-1-1 Non-Emergency Call taking?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
04
Please check each of the following of which you have experience:
Computer Aided Dispatch System (CAD) NCIC / TCIC (or other state equivalent of TCIC)
05
If you have had experience with these systems, which of the following functions did you perform?
Queries (Driver's License, Wanted Persons, Vehicle, Property checks) Entries (Missing Persons, Vehicles, etc.) Confirmations (Wanted Persons, Stolen Vehicles & Property, etc.) NLETS / TLETS (or other state equivalent of TLETS) Teletypes (Regional, State or National Broadcasts)
06
Have you ever had a TCOLE issued Telecommunicator License?
Yes No
07
If you have had a TCOLE issued Telecommunicator License, which of the following was it:
Basic Intermediate Advanced Masters N/A
08
How many years of experience do you have working in a call center?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
09
Do you have dispatching or call-taking experience that wasn't law enforcement related?
Yes No
10
How many years of non-related law enforcement dispatching or call-taking experience do you have in other areas i.e. military, wrecker, transportation, service industry, etc.?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
11
How many years of non-related law enforcement dispatching or call-taking experience in Fire/EMS do you have?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
12
How many verifiable words per minute can you type?
13
This position requires shift work. Are you willing to work hours that include evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays?
Yes No
Required Question
$54,770.35 - $67,093.68 Annually
Location :
Austin, TX
Job Type:
Full Time
Job Number:
24-09608
Department:
Sheriff
Opening Date:
11/21/2024
Closing Date:
12/5/2024 11:59 PM Central
Job Summary
Do you want to be a first responder while enjoying the benefits of an air-conditioned office? Do you like a fast-paced work environment where no two days are exactly the same. Are you good with a keyboard and have great multi-tasking skills? Are you a good listener? Are you able to be the calm voice in stressful or chaotic situations?
If you answered yes to these questions, a job as a Telecommunications Specialist - 9-1-1 dispatcher might be for you. This position is located at our Combined Transportation, Emergency and Communication Center and focuses on supporting our community. 9-1-1 Specialists are the first point of contact on 9-1-1 and coordinate Law Enforcement, EMS, and Fire response.
This is a great position for those interested in developing their critical response skills in a rewarding and fast-paced environment, and who desire a competitive Total Rewards Package. Travis County offers one of the highest-rated retirement plans. We also offer vacation and sick leave, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, personal holidays, 12 company holidays, and longevity pay. Additionally, Telecommunicators are eligible for licensing pay and shift differential for evening and night shifts.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is the first in a series of three telecommunications-related job classifications within the Public Safety/Emergency Management job family. This classification is distinguished from the Telecommunications 9-1-1 Senior in that incumbents typically specialize in a division/department function and also possess broader knowledge/skills about division/department operation to allow more independence in carrying out responsibilities. May be required to work on rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays. This classification may require a flexible work schedule in order to meet the needs of the department.
Duties and Responsibilities
Answers incoming emergency (9-1-1) and non-emergency calls. Operates emergency telecommunications networks equipment used in receiving and relaying information in response to emergency calls. Refers emergency fire and EMS calls by communicating with persons verbally over telephone and radio equipment. Ensures callers are transferred to appropriate agencies. Maintains telephone contact with callers during critical incidents and updates dispatch card with information pertaining to the call. Keeps caller calm and focused. Controls the call to quickly and accurately obtain necessary information. Operates telephone device for the hearing impaired (TDD) to ensure emergency services is provided. Accesses Language Line to ensure appropriate emergency response. Operates a radio system in accordance with FCC rules and regulations. Dispatches units to various calls for services. Coordinates, performs and controls multiple 9-1-1 communication multiple-simultaneous tasks on demand. Obtains and relays information to patrol officers and staff through telecommunications networks using a Computer Aided Dispatch Terminal (CAD), NCIC, TCIC, and TLETS. Uses log, runs inquiries, researches and enters information, assigns case numbers and maintains databases. Uses laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures for ensuring proper response to the public calls for assistance and inquiry. May interpret maps and other legal location description documents. Obtains appropriate information from calls via 9-1-1 telephone system. Processes information and data in accordance with TCSO policies and legal requirements. May operate a County vehicle for business purposes and under non-emergency conditions. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements
Education and Experience: High School diploma or G.E.D. AND one (1) year of telecommunications experience or equivalent, including one (1) year of computer experience;
OR,
Any combination of education and experience that has been achieved and is equivalent to the stated education and experience and required knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job.
Licenses,
Registrations,
Certifications,
or
Special
Requirements: Incumbents are required to pass an exam administered by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) in order to obtain their Basic Telecommunicator license within the first year of employment. This license must be maintained throughout employment as a 9-1-1 Telecommunications Specialist. Must be a U.S. Citizen
Preferred: Valid Texas Driver's License. Typing Speed: 40 words per minute or greater . Experience in Telecommunications. Experience in law enforcement telecommunications and CAD systems. Bilingual in English and Spanish. Experience with TLETS/NCIC/TCIC and OpenFox.
Applicants are encouraged to attach a resume with the online applications.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
9-1-1 concepts and equipment functions. Federal, State, Local and County communications laws, rules, regulations and guidelines. Law enforcement computer databases and telecommunications networks. Basic telephone courtesy and functional knowledge. Computer equipment to include word processing, spreadsheets, databases and a variety of software packages. Skill in:
Operating a variety of modern office equipment, including a computer. Both verbal and written communication. Ability to:
Gain working knowledge of the physical County geography layout. Communicate clearly, concisely and with professional tact both verbally and in writing. Perform on demand, in a highly stressful environment, while maintaining a professional manner. Perform multiple-simultaneous tasks on demand. React and remain calm under stress and make quick and calm decisions in emergency situations. Understand and carry out verbal and written directions/instructions. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with departmental clientele, representatives of outside agencies, other County employees and officials, and the general public.
Work Environment & Other Information
Physical requirements include the ability to lift/carry up to 20-40 pounds and pushing/pulling with force up to 20-40 pounds, occasionally. Subject to constant sitting, reaching, talking, audition, and exercise of fine dexterity, occasional standing, walking, climbing, kneeling/crouching, bending/squatting, and gripping/grasping to perform the essential functions. Subject to job related stress and client/customer communications within the confines of the communication center. Work requires 24-hours/7-days a week.
Travis County employees play an important role in business continuity. As such, employees can be assigned to business continuity efforts outside of normal job functions.
This job description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.
Work Hours: Work Hours Vary, Works some holidays, nights, or weekends. 10-hour shifts 24 hour per day operation 7 days per week
Location: Austin, TX
Department: Sheriff
Criminal Background Check, Credit Check, TCOLE, Driving Record, Physical Exam, Drug Test, Alcohol Test, Psychological Test, Education, and Employment History Check Required.
Benefits Employment at Travis County comes with a full array of benefits. We offer comprehensive health insurance, a no-cost, on-site Health and Wellness clinic, longevity pay, paid vacations, sick time and personal holidays, not to mention an industry competitive salary structure and a friendly, stable work environment. FY2025 Travis County Benefit Guide
In this valuable you will find benefit summaries, eligibility requirements, costs, contact numbers and addresses as well as other general information on the benefits available to Travis County Employees and Retirees.
Credit Union Employees may join the Travis County Credit Union which offers low-interest loans, savings plans through payroll deduction, safe deposit boxes and other benefits.
Deferred Compensation Employees may enroll in a tax- free sheltered investment plan through payroll deduction.
Direct Deposit Employees may sign up for direct bank deposit.
Employee Assistance Program Travis County provides a confidential counseling and referral service free of charge to county employees and their family.
Employee Organizations Membership in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Union is available through payroll deduction.
Employee Health & Wellness Clinic Employees may access the clinic for a variety of wellness program and health care services with no co-pay, no deductible and no co-insurance costs.
Holidays An average of eleven paid holidays are designated by the Travis County Commissioners Court at the beginning of each fiscal year.
Insurance Employees may select from four plans: an Exclusive Physician Organization (EPO), Choice Plus Preferred Physician Organization (PPO), Consumer Choice or a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA). All four options include a Pharmacy Plan. Travis County's current policy is to pay 100% of the employee's health insurance premium for the Consumer Choice and HDHP. Employees will pay a premium for both the EPO and PPO. Other insurance benefits include $50,000 Basic Life and AD&D paid by the County.
The following benefits are employee paid:
Dental Vision Supplemental Life, AD&D Dependent Life Short Term Disability Long Term Disability Long Term Care
New employees are covered on the first day of the month following 28 calendar days of employment.
Longevity Longevity pay is paid for each year completed after three years of continuous service. Peace Officers in a law enforcement activity, whose job requires state peace officer certification, receive pay after one year of certification.
On the regular payday on or after the employee's fourth and subsequent adjusted service dates, he or she receives a single payment for the previous year.
Parking A limited number of assigned parking spaces are available to employees in the Courthouse Complex.
Personal Holidays Regular, full-time employees are eligible for up to three paid personal holidays each calendar year. Part-time employees shall be granted personal holidays on a prorated basis. New employees earn personal holidays for the calendar year in which he/she begins employment, based on the month in which employment begins:
January - March
3 personal holidays
April - June
2 personal holidays
July - September
1 personal holiday
October - December
None
New employees are eligible to take personal holidays after 90 days of employment. Retirement Travis County is a member of the Texas County & District Retirement System with mandatory participation by certain classes of employees. Seven percent (7%) of the gross salary is deducted each pay period. An employee is fully vested after eight years of service. Benefits are prorated for part-time employees.
Sick Leave Regular employees earn sick leave at a rate of eight hours per month with unlimited accrual during employment. Part-time employees earn sick leave on a pro-rated basis.
Parental Leave Each Full-time Paid Parental Leave Eligible (PPL) Employee is entitled to a total of 320 hours of Paid Parental Leave in a 12 month period. Paid Parental Leave for Part-time PPL Eligible Employees is prorated based on the number of hours that they are regularly scheduled to work.
Tuition Refund Certain classes of full-time employees may receive reimbursement for fees associated with pre-approved, job related course work completed satisfactorily.
Vacation Based on years of county service, regular, full-time employees earn vacation time at the following rates:
0 to 5 years
4.0 hours per pay period
6 to 10 years
4.5 hours per pay period
11 to 15 years
5.0 hours per pay period
16 to 20 years
5.5 hours per pay period
21 plus years
6.0 hours per pay period
Part-time employees earn vacation leave on a pro-rated basis. Workers' Compensation The county provides all employees workers' compensation coverage with benefits in accordance with state statute, if the employee sustains an injury out of, or in the course of work.
01
Have you ever worked as a dispatcher/Telecommunicator for a Law Enforcement Agency, Fire Agency, EMS Agency, or call center for a private business?
Yes No
02
How many years of Law Enforcement dispatch experience do you have in radio dispatching?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
03
How many years of Law Enforcement dispatch experience do you have in 9-1-1 Non-Emergency Call taking?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
04
Please check each of the following of which you have experience:
Computer Aided Dispatch System (CAD) NCIC / TCIC (or other state equivalent of TCIC)
05
If you have had experience with these systems, which of the following functions did you perform?
Queries (Driver's License, Wanted Persons, Vehicle, Property checks) Entries (Missing Persons, Vehicles, etc.) Confirmations (Wanted Persons, Stolen Vehicles & Property, etc.) NLETS / TLETS (or other state equivalent of TLETS) Teletypes (Regional, State or National Broadcasts)
06
Have you ever had a TCOLE issued Telecommunicator License?
Yes No
07
If you have had a TCOLE issued Telecommunicator License, which of the following was it:
Basic Intermediate Advanced Masters N/A
08
How many years of experience do you have working in a call center?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
09
Do you have dispatching or call-taking experience that wasn't law enforcement related?
Yes No
10
How many years of non-related law enforcement dispatching or call-taking experience do you have in other areas i.e. military, wrecker, transportation, service industry, etc.?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
11
How many years of non-related law enforcement dispatching or call-taking experience in Fire/EMS do you have?
None Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years 5 years or more
12
How many verifiable words per minute can you type?
13
This position requires shift work. Are you willing to work hours that include evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays?
Yes No
Required Question