Class Specification: COMMUNICATION OPERATOR II, SHERIFF
ITEM NUMBER: 2461
APPROVAL DATE: 05/14/2003
DEFINITION:
Receives requests for assistance and coordinates the dispatching of law enforcement units via the operation of the Computer Assisted Dispatch (CAD) system.
CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS:
Positions allocable to this class receive technical and administrative supervision from a Supervising Communication Operator, Sheriff and are responsible for the operation of communications equipment in dispatching the proper unit to the scene of an emergency. Incumbents are distinguished from Communication Operator I, Sheriff by their responsibility for acting as lead dispatcher, providing one-on-one training to new dispatchers, and executing a high degree of discretion, initiative, and independent judgment as to a course of action in accordance with established policies, procedures, and guidelines. In addition to the knowledge and skills required to operate communications equipment, incumbents are required to exercise a thorough knowledge of the Sheriffs response procedures and exercise sound judgment in initiating and coordinating responses to 911 calls and other emergency situations that may affect the lives and safety of the public and law enforcement personnel.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
Transmits and receives coded and conventional messages, including 911 calls, to and from Sheriff stations and administrative, investigative, and patrol units via voice, digital, and video communication links.
Receives and responds to requests for emergency services from the public via 911, electronically relayed from the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) centers or standard telephone systems, and from other safety agencies.
Uses the CAD system to determine the identity and availability of the nearest and appropriate law enforcement unit.
Upon request of field units, selects and interrogates nationwide criminal justice data banks using a keyboard and video screen to obtain information on warrants, driver history, missing persons, vehicles, firearms, and miscellaneous property.
Monitors, by radio, all emergency responses in progress and dispatches additional personnel and/or equipment as requested.
Monitors automatic selection of transmitter and receiver sites and overrides as necessary.
Operates keyboard-controlled telephone equipment at the Sheriff's Radio Center, which enables dispatchers to maintain cold line communications with public safety agencies, private safety agencies, and non-emergent agencies.
Operates an encoder, which activates the County's Countywide paging system.
May operate communications equipment in a mobile command post during emergency operations such as natural disasters or civil disorders.
May assist other police agencies by operating communications equipment during emergencies or at special functions.
May train dispatcher personnel, as well as dispatchers from other agencies, in the operation of the communications console.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
One year's experience as a Communication Operator I, Sheriff in the service of the County of Los Angeles OR- Graduation from high school or its equivalent, and one years experience dispatching law enforcement units in a public safety dispatching system that included the operation of the Computer Assisted Dispatch (CAD) system and a computer keyboard.
Typewriting Skill: Ability to type at the rate of 25 net words per minute.
PHYSICAL CLASS:
2 - Light.
