911 Telecommunicator

Overview

Join our dedicated emergency response team as a 911 Telecommunicator, where your quick thinking and exceptional communication skills will be vital in providing critical assistance to the community. In this fast-paced, high-stakes role, you will serve as the first point of contact for emergency calls, coordinating with law enforcement, fire services, medical teams, and other first responders to ensure swift and effective responses. This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day while working in a dynamic environment that values professionalism, teamwork, and community service.

Duties

• Answer incoming emergency and non-emergency calls promptly using multi-line phone systems and telephony equipment.
• Assess caller needs through phone triage, gathering essential information with clarity and empathy.
• Dispatch appropriate emergency services using computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, ensuring accurate data entry and efficient routing.
• Maintain clear radio communication with law enforcement officers, fire personnel, EMS teams, and other first responders via radio communication systems.
• Utilize GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and GPS technology to determine precise locations of incidents for rapid response.
• Provide pre-arrival instructions such as basic life support (BLS), CPR, or first aid guidance while awaiting emergency units.
• Document all interactions thoroughly with strong writing skills, transcription accuracy, and attention to detail in shift reports and logs.
• Manage conflict situations professionally using negotiation and conflict management skills to de-escalate callers when necessary.
• Monitor security systems and perform data entry tasks related to incident tracking and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with police dispatch procedures, emergency medical dispatch protocols (EMD), and other relevant standards to uphold safety and efficiency.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age at the time of hire
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to type 40 words per minute or greater
• Successfully complete the hiring process, including applicant testing, oral interview, background investigation, psychological examination, physical examination, and drug/narcotics screening
• Ability to obtain all required certifications during the training process
• Establish and maintain residency within twenty (20) miles of the City of Ottawa within fifteen (15) months of hire date as a condition of continued employment
• Technical proficiency with computers, data entry tools, transcription devices, and
• Ability to handle high-stress situations calmly while managing multiple tasks simultaneously through strong typing skills and attention to detail.
• Must be able to work flexible shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays in a 24/7 operation environment.

This role is an excellent fit for motivated individuals eager to serve their community through critical communication work that demands precision, compassion, and resilience. Join us in making a difference—every call counts!

Pay: From $65,431.39 per year

Benefits:

• 457(b)
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Military leave
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person