Communications Operator / Jailer

General Purpose:

Performs a full range of radio and telephone operational duties in a 24-hour facility and required to process and prioritize incoming calls for police, fire and EMS assistance. Also performs a variety of public safety tasks concerning the care and custody of prisoners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Performs radio dispatch duties for police and fire departments.

Answers incoming 911 Emergency calls.

Coordinates dispatching of emergency police, fire and other public safety equipment by receiving and transmitting radio traffic.

Inputs and retrieves computer data quickly. Utilizes teletype and/or computer to retrieve traffic, arrest and/or warrant information. Makes inquires, entries, modifications and cancellations into the TCIC/NCIC computer as needed.

Ensures all sources are checked for outstanding warrants on prisoners.

Prepares letters, forms and reports on computer keyboards as required.

Processes emergency requests for service.

Answers questions and provides information to the public by telephone and in person.

Makes entries into automated record files.

Maintains accurate, up-to-date files and logs.

Communicates effectively with those contacted in the course of work.

Uses good judgment in making decisions, in emergency and routine situations.

Books, searches, and releases prisoners.

Maintains security in all areas of the correctional and holding facility.

Administers and supervises meal time feeding and arraignment of prisoners.

Performs security patrols and monitors jail access and egress.  

Works an assigned shift using judgement in deciding course of action, being expected to handle difficult emergency situations. Takes appropriate actions which includes, but not limited to, physical restraint of unruly prisoners.

Prepares a variety of reports and records.

Maintains logs of prisoner's activities and meals.

Performs maintenance duties such as sweeping and cleaning.

Responsible for answering questions from bondsman, lawyers, family members and courts.

Prepares reports for injured and unruly prisoners.

Responsible for the safekeeping of prisoner property and issues receipts for bonds to release prisoners.

Coordinates activities with other officers or departments as needed; exchanges information with officers in other law enforcement agencies, as needed and assigned.

The employee must have the ability to work well with others and have a good/pleasant attitude.

Perform other essential duties as required to achieve successful operations of the department.

Must be able to follow directions.

Serves as a member of various employee committees.

Desired Minimum Qualifications:

Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License by date of hire.

Graduation from high school or equivalent; and, Must be able to type 35 WPM.

Must pass required training program.

Must attend and pass TCOLE training for Police Communications within twelve (12) months of employment.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Ability to work effectively with the public, outside agencies and other employees;

Ability to make sound independent judgments during stressful situations;

Ability to prioritize duties and maintain the standards required for the performance of duties;

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;

Skilled in general office duties and utilize modern office equipment, computer, TDD, dictaphone, telephone, and keyboard.

Selection Guidelines:

Formal application; review of education and experience; oral interview; background check; polygraph examination; successful completion of a drug screen.

Tools and Equipment Used:

Twoway communication system, teletype, general office equipment, phone switchboard; computer including word processing and specialized software; copy machine; fax machine; calculator; shredder.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds; prolonged sitting and use of radio communication system. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will primarily work indoors. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and other hazards associated within an office environment. There is occasional contact with diseased or combative persons.

The noise level in the work environment is moderate.