"Employees in positions of this class perform entrance-level work in operating communications equipment, keeping records, and other duties in the communications center of the fire department."

They answer fire telephones, dispatch fire fighting equipment, and keep simple records of these activities following department procedures. Duties of this class are non-supervisory in nature and require the ability to act independently following standard operating procedures. Communications officers report to and have work reviewed by the Chief Fire Communications Officer.

Examples of Work

Examples listed below are illustrative only. They are not intended to include all duties which may be assigned, neither are they intended to exclude other duties which may be logical assignments to this class.

• Answers telephone and secures the most accurate information possible for any incident from caller; locates street address on map or in street file; determines the correct unit(s) to be dispatched and any other pertinent information by checking address in a cross- reference file, log, or microfiche file; transmits information on fire by telephone, public address, or teletype, and dispatches unit.
• Keeps track of location and condition of each unit at all times; receives and transmits messages to and from the fire scene and to and from related department personnel; notifies all specified officers or special units of all working fires.
• Calls ambulance service, utilities company, etc., for assistance at the fire scene or in emergencies, when necessary.
• Receives emergency calls of a non-fire nature and responds appropriately.
• Tests equipment such as fire radios, fire telephones, alarm bells, public address systems, recording equipment, or alarm boxes as prescribed by department policy.
• Keeps logs, records, files, and lists by making entries on a regular basis or by periodically reviewing and updating information.
• Files reports forms, cards, logs, tapes, or other items for future reference; compiles permanent records, either written or taped, of all working fires.
• Notifies repair crew or supervisor of any malfunctioning equipment.
• Trains new communications officers by giving demonstrations, assisting with work performance, or supervising work performed during training period.
• Prepares for shift change by briefing oncoming shift or by being briefed by outgoing shift, checking records from previous shift, or assembling necessary supplies and equipment.
• Performs related duties assigned.

Qualification Requirements

Unless otherwise specified, all requirements must be met before admission to examination.

• Must meet all requirements of the Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Law, including being a citizen of the United States and passing a civil service examination for the position.
• Must not be less than twenty-one (21) provided, however, that such age limit shall not apply to regular and permanent employees of the Monroe Fire Department.
• Must have graduated from high school or possess a valid high school equivalent certificate issued by the State Department of Education.
• Must satisfactorily pass medical examination assuring good health and physical abilities sufficient, in the opinion of the board, to indicate satisfactory performance of required work of this class, before appointment from employment list.