Champaign Countywide Communication Center is Hiring

The Champaign Countywide Communication Center is hiring for full time/part time positions.

Job Classification: Public Safety Telecommunicator/ Dispatcher

Description: Receives all 9-1-1, Admin calls and radio messages, dispatches appropriate First Responders agencies for all of Champaign County.

Salary Information:
Full time starting at $18.75 to $23.03 under current scale
Full Time Lateral starting at $19.12 - $21.05 under current scale
Part Time starting at $17.25 to $18.00

Benefit Information: 80 hours of vacation upon completion of (1) year probation, Holiday Pay for (11) Holidays and if worked time and a half; Sick time accrual at 4.6 hours; Comp Time accrual at time and a half. Additional benefits may include DTO (Dispatch Training Operator) and OIC (Operator in Charge). Deferred Comp, Life Insurance, Health, Dental, and Vision are available to full time employees.

Department Overview: Champaign Countywide Communications Center serves all of Champaign County. We are a combined dispatch center that intakes all calls for service and processes entries into LEADS and/or NCIC.

County Information: Champaign County is located in Central West Ohio and is approximately 430 square miles with a population of approximately 40,000.

Minimum Qualifications:
Be at least 18 years of age
Have a High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
Have a valid Ohio Driver’s License (Applicants that recently moved to Ohio shall obtain an Ohio Driver’s License (1) year from the date of employment).
Never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or is currently not under indictment for any criminal offense, includes conviction of any family offense of violence and no current and/or previous charge or conviction of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs with the last (5) years.

Minimum Requirements:
Be a United States Citizen
Be subject to a thorough background investigation and personal interviews by agency personal
Be Subject to finger print through local, State and Federal
Demonstrate good reading, oral and written skills in the English language.
Be prepared to testify in court if served a subpoena
Complete eighteen weeks of knowledge based, computer application and geographical training to be released from the training program.

Minimum Certifications: LEADS/NCIC, CPR/First Aid, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), NIMS IS-100, IS-200, IS 700, IS 800, IS 144 & 40 Hour Basic Training.

Be prepared to testify in court if served a subpoena
Application Process: (1) Submit an application Initial Interview, (2) Background Check, which may include personal and criminal checks, home visits, physical examination and drug screening (3) Observation and Testing Conditional Offer of Employment (4) Final Interview and acceptance

Contact:
Amy Collins, 9-1-1 Director of Communications
acollins@co.champaign.oh.us

Application

Please read carefully and complete by typing. The application must be completed in full. Provide all information requested. You may attach a resume and supporting documents.

Please note unsigned or incomplete applications will not be processed.

* Indicates required field

How did you hear about us? *

Equal Opportunity Employer

It is our policy to seek and employ the best qualified personnel and individuals that best match the positions, to provide equal opportunity for the advancement of employees and to administer all of our personnel policies in a manner that will not discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion , age, sex, marital or veteran status, national origin, ancestry, disability, on-the-job injuries, or any other legally protected status unless it is a bona fide occupational requirement reasonably necessary to the operation of our business.

Applicants with disabilities may request any reasonable accommodation necessary to complete this application or to take any test required for the position for which the applicant has applied, by making a request at the time of application.

Last Name *

First Name *

Middle Name *

Address *

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State

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Phone Number *

Alternate Phone Number *

Specify *

Drivers License Number *

Are you 18 years of age or older? *

Yes No

Have you ever worked for us before? *

Yes No

If so, provide department(s) *

Do you have any friends or relatives working for Champaign County? *

Yes No

If you are hired, are you prepared to present evidence within three days of beginning work showing that you are legally authorized to work in the United States? *

Yes No

Can you travel if the job duties require it or for required training purposes? *

Yes No

Date you are available for work *

Expected Pay Rate *

Employment History

Starting with your present or most recent, list your previous employers. If more space is needed, continue on a separate sh eet. You may attach a resume, but this portion of the application must be completed in full.

Last or present company *

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Supervisor's Name and Title *

Dates Employed (mo./yr.) *

Reason for leaving or seeking other employment *

May we contact your current employer? *

Yes No

Title of Position Held *

Current Salary *

Position was *

Temporary Part Time Full Time

Brief description of the job duties: *

Company *

Type of Company *

Address *

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Supervisors Name and Title *

Dates Employed (mo./yr.) *

Reason for leaving or seeking other employment *

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Position was: *

Temporary Part Time Full Time

Brief description of the job duties: *

Company *

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Supervisors Name and Title *

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Position was *

Temporary Part Time Full Time

Brief description of the job duties: *

Company *

Type of Company *

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Supervisor's Name and Title *

Dates Employed (mo./yr.) *

Reason for leaving or seeking other employment *

Title of Position Held *

Salary *

Position was *

Temporary Part Time Full Time

Brief description of the job duties: *

Education

List any education, training and/or specialized experience (such as trade, vocational or technical schools) you feel would help you perform the work and responsibilities of the position for which you are applying.

High School or Equivalent

Undergraduate College of University

Name of the Institution *

Location (city & state) *

Course of Study *

Years Completed *

Diploma or Degree? Yes/No OR # of credits *

Graduate School

Trade or Vocational School

Name of the Institution *

Location (city & state) *

Course of Study *

Years Completed *

Diploma or Degree? Yes/No OR # of credits *

Trade or Vocational School

Education in the Military

Name of the Institution *

Location (city & state) *

Course of Study *

Years Completed *

Diploma or Degree? Yes/No OR # of credits *

Describe any other specialized training, education, apprenticeship, license, certifications, or extra-curricular activities you believe are relevant or would help you perform the duties of the position you are applying for. Indicate where you acauired them or the issuina authority for licenses. *

Military Work History

Have you ever served in the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard or Military Reserves? *

Yes No

If yes, Branch & Division *

# of years of service: *

Job Class or Specialty: *

Self-Assessment for 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher Applicants

We are providing this information to assist you in determining whether to proceed with the application process. We do not encourage or discourage applicants to enter or proceed with the application process. All information is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking in consideration the specific facts about any incidents or issues. You are asked and expected to give truthful information.

The Champaign Countywide Communication Center conducts a thorough investigation of top candidates that may include:

Employment history
Personal history Residence history
Proof of 18 years of age or older and citizenship Criminal and other police records
Driving record, citations and accidents
Drug/alcohol use/abuse
Medical employment exam and drug testing

Applicants may be removed from eligibility or not accepted for employment for any one of the following:

Failure to meet minimum typing requirements
Failure to provide proof of 18 years of age or older, US citizenship, or other required documents
Felony-criminal activity or crimes of perversion; or close affiliation with known criminals
Patterns of misdemeanor activity
Use of hallucinogenic drugs, alcohol or any drug abuse; illegal use of any controlled substance
Deception at any stage in the employment process
Work history that reflects incompetence, instability, job abandonment or neglect of duties, inability to have a good working relation with co-workers and supervisors, or inappropriate behavior in the workplace.
Excessive traffic citations, accidents, or accidents involving drugs/alcohol
Invalid driver's license or inability to obtain a valid driver's license
Unsuitable candidate or lacking aptitude for being a 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher

Requirements of a 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher

Work assigned shift (rotating shifts: days, evenings, midnights, or swing)
Willing and able to work 8 to 12 hour shifts, with regular overtime, which may be mandatory, with short notice and may conflict with personal plans
Work schedule that will fall on weekends and holidays
Interact with multiple dispatchers taking calls, phones ringing, radios transmitting, etc.
Surrounded by computerized control and communications equipment
Work time is largely spent at the workstation with limited freedom to move
Perform constant fast data entry, frequently performing multiple tasks under stress
Maintain complete confidentiality over events at the center and sensitive information
Limited upward movement within the department

Physical Requirements

Manual dexterity - extensive use of computers, keyboards, office equipment and other technical electronic equipment commonly used in communication centers to enter and receive data; extensive to regular data entry
Multi-task - ex: listen to radio traffic while typing the information into the computer and quickly answer a phone soon after
Sit or stand for extended periods of time; workstations are adjustable but movement while on duty is limited
Regularly stretch/reach or lift objects that may be up to 10 lbs
Read and discern visual images written script on screen, telephone, headphones, radio, in-person voices; hear and understand surrounding sounds

Mental/Cognitive Abilities

Remain alert and work effectively despite sleep pattern disruptions as a result of shift rotation and overtime
Multi-task and handle a variety of rapidly flowing information while paying attention to details
Maintain objectivity in the decision-making process and effectively prioritize situations with the given information
Retain emotional control and productivity during stressful situations and life threatening calls
Recognize when to make own decisions and when to get guidance; act decisively
Communicate clear and complete instructions and information
Write, read, and understand English; speak loud and clearly enough that the average person can hear and understand you
Good memory and information retention
Accept and work well with frequent procedural/policy changes, even when you do not agree with them
Positive response to constructive criticism
Fast and accurate data-entry

Supplemental Self Evaluation Questionnaire for 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher

Review and mark "Yes" or "No" to each statement below:

1. The position of 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher is a rewarding career, but the 9-1-1 Communications Center has limited upward opportunities (promotions to higher levels). Are you interested in this career opportunity? *

Yes No

2. I am able and willing to work any assigned shift in a 24-hour period (day, swing, midnight or relief shift). *

Yes No

3. I am able and willing to work a 12-hour shift /workdays. Example: 7:00pm to 7:00am. *

Yes No

4. I am able and willing to work overtime in addition to my regular workday. This means working 12 hours in one day, as the needs of the Center requires it. *

Yes No

5. I am able and willing to work mandatory overtime as required by the needs of the Center even if it is on short notice, or my scheduled day off, and/or conflicts with my personal plans. *

Yes No

6. I am able and willing to work weekends and holidays. *

Yes No

7. I am able and willing to work in a busy, noisy environment. Example: Many Dispatchers talking, phones ringing, radios transmitting and alert tones sounding. *

Yes No

8. I am able and willing to work on a part-time or on-call basis. *

Yes No

9. I understand that all candidates are required to perform the essential duties of the position with or without certain accommodations. I certify that I am able to perform the essential duties of this job as described. *

Yes No

If you answered "No" to question "9", are there reasonable accommodations that can be made to allow you to perform the essential duties of the job? *

Yes No

Describe Below *

Signature (By typing your name you are agreeing to sign) *

Date *

authorization to Release Information

As an applicant for a position with the Champaign Countywide Communications Center, I am required to furnish information for use in determining my qualifications, suitability, and character.

In connection, I hereby authorize any peace officer or other authorized representative of the Champaign Countywide Communications Center, bearing this release, or a copy of it, within one year of this date, to obtain any information in your files pertaining to my employment, credit, or education records, including but not limited to; academic achievement, attendance, athletic, personal history, performance report, background investigations, polygraph or other truth verification examination results, any required BMV or DOT drug/alcohol testing results, any and all internal affairs investigations and disciplinary records, and credit records, This shall include information of a confidential or privileged nature or any data or materials which have been sealed or understood to be withheld pursuant to any prior agreement or court proceeding involving disciplinary matters.

Consent is granted for the Champaign Countywide Communications Center to furnish the information above to third parties in the court of fulfilling its official responsibilities.

I hereby release you, as the custodian of such records, information, and any school, college, university, or other education institution, hospital, or other repository of medical records, credit bureau, lending institution, consumer reporting agency, or retail business establishment including its officers, employees, or related personnel both individually and collectively, from any and all liability for damage of whatever kind which may at any time result to me, my heirs, family, and associates because of compliance with this authorization and request to release information, or any attempt to comply with it. A photocopy of this release form will be valid as an original thereof, even though the said photocopy does not contain an original writing of my signature.
The signing of this document authorizes its execution and acknowledges that I have received a copy of it. THIS RELEASE WILL EXPIRE ONE YEAR AFTER THE DATE SIGNED.

Full Name *

Date *

Printed Name *

Address *

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Phone Number *

Subscribed and duly sworn before me according to law, the above

Named person on this __day of ______, 20_ *

County of *

State of *

Signature of Official *

Title *

Commission Expiration *

9-1-1 Communications Operator Job Preview

Experience has shown that some applicants for 9-1-1 Communications Operator position consider only the popular aspects of the job while ignoring some of its less attractive features. As a result, when new employees encounter negative job features, they sometimes react by leaving the job before training is completed or after only a few months on the job. Early resignations can result from lack of accurate job knowledge.
There are many satisfying, rewarding aspects to the 9-1-1 Communications Operator position. There is no question that a 9-1-1 Communications Operator makes a significant contribution to the welfare and safety of their fellow citizens, It is, however, important for all applicants to carefully consider both the negative and positive features of this career before deciding to test or interview for this position.
The job factor listed below, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, are realistic features of the 9-1-1 Communications Operator position that many applicants may be unaware. If any of these items present problems you, we strongly suggest that you consider alternative employment choices that may be a better fit for your career goals.
Please initial at the end of each numbered paragraph to indicate that you have read and thought about each item.

Training

9-1-1 Communications Operators undergo a rigorous, supervised on-the-job training program. Training requires frequent written, verbal and performance testing. Trainees will receive and must accept regular reminders of error and mistakes. Trainees are on a probationary status for {l) year from date of hire.
During training a trainee must learn and correctly use an extensive vocabulary of law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical (EMS) terminology. A trainee must read and understand large volumes of written material (Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Computer Aided Dispatch user manuals, Emergency Medical Dispatching manuals, etc. Trainees will learn and must be able to apply policies and procedures for 4 law enforcement departments and 7 Fire and EMS departments. Additionally, the trainee must learn, certify in and apply Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMO), which is the process of providing pre-arrival medical instructions over the telephone (e.g. CPR, choking, Childbirth instructions, etc.)
In training, the trainee must develop eye-hand coordination sufficient to operate and view multiple monitors, computer keyboard(s), multiple human interface devices and complex communications equipment in rapid succession or even simultaneously. Systems include a computer aided dispatch system (CAD), radio communications computer and equipment, mapping software, 9-1-1 telephone computer system. Many of these systems require the memorization and quick accurate use of a large number of command codes to obtain and input data.
Training will be completed on various shifts from day shift, evening shift, and night shift. The trainee will have different trainers and various training hours.

Initials *

Working Conditions

9-1-1 Communications Operators work within the emergency services field. They must wear appropriate business like clothes and/or uniform shirts at all times. The 9-1-1 Communications Operators generally work five days a week with days off rotating every two months regardless of seniority. The operators may be regularly scheduled to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays. They may also need to change their regular work schedules on short notice due to communication center staffing needs.
9-1-1 Communications Operators work in the communications Center located in the center of the Champaign County Community Center. The Center at times has low lighting conditions, and no natural light. Operators may not leave the communications center during their shifts without permission and depending on adequate staffing levels. Lunch and rest breaks are not guaranteed. Operators may have to eat their meals at their workstation depending on the call volume.
The 9-1-1 Communications Operator work environment is often noisy and can be a distracting environment. The operator must be able to concentrate on their jobs for extended periods of time while other operators are taking calls, talking on the radio, and while there are other people standing around them and conversations taking place in close proximity.

Initials *

PERFORMING THE JOB

9-1-1 Communications Operators are briefed at the start of every shift by the operator that is going off duty. Information should be exchanged regarding current incidents, units, statuses, equipment, etc.

The Communications Center has multiple workstations. The operators rotate among these positions, each with different duties and responsibilities. The trainee must go through training for each station and must be able and willing to serve each position, adapt to each and accurately handle the types of calls and/or other duties common to each station.
9-1-1 Communications Operators evaluate and weigh information continuously. They must consider various factors in determining the appropriate response, among these are; the nature of the incident, patient/victim condition, the proper response agency; availability of resources; and potential safety of the caller, and response personnel. The operator must interpret information and make quick decisions (urgency of response, referral to another agency, etc.) on which one or more persons' safety may be at stake based on experience, policy and procedures. The operator's decisions are under constant review, mistakes or error in judgment may result in criticism and/or formal disciplinary action.
The 9-1-1 Communications Operator must be able to quickly and accurately recognize letters, numbers, addresses, street names, city of origin, etc., received by the radio, telephone or computer monitor.
The 9-1-1 Communications Operator must be able to quickly and accurately obtain information from callers necessary to determine the appropriate response. The operator must control conversation and get needed information quickly. This may be complicated by callers who are often hysterical, aggressive, distraught, confused, profane, or nearly incomprehensible.
The 9-1-1 Communications Operator must maintain professional standards and attitudes when dealing with: belligerent person; when obscene language is directed at them; in emergency situations; handling nuisance, hang up or non-emergency calls.
The 9-1-1 Communications Operator must have sufficient verbal and written communications skills to efficiently relay relevant information via radio, telephone, or computer system. Written communications must be concise and to the point while providing information that is pertinent to the safety of the caller and the responding units.
Any call may require a 9-1-1 Communications Operator to perform several activities simultaneously. Examples include maintaining contact with a caller while typing, dispatching units via the radio system, updating incident information while monitoring or talking on the radio and the phone; speaking with a caller while typing and relaying information to other units, handle multiple calls or incidents at one time.
9-1-1 Communications Operators often work at a rapid pace over which they have little to no control. Due to the workload and the nature of the incidents, the operators are unlikely to be able to follow up and learn the final resolution of the calls received earlier in their shift.
On a daily basis the 9-1-1 Communications Operator may deal with tragic incidents such as the following: deceased persons, crimes (shootings, stabbings, and assaults), incidents involving infants and young children, multiple casualty incidents, major fires, natural disasters, hysterical callers, etc. Initial ____

Initials *

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YOUR CART

The Champaign Countywide Communication Center is hiring for full time/part time positions.

Application

Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment History

Education

Military Work History

Self-Assessment for 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher Applicants

Supplemental Self Evaluation Questionnaire for 9-1-1 Public Safety Dispatcher

authorization to Release Information

9-1-1 Communications Operator Job Preview

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