A career working as a 911 Telecommunicator is not only challenging, but extremely rewarding. Many say it is a calling.
The Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office is looking for dedicated individuals who value integrity and leadership to serve the citizens of Pottawattamie County. 911 Telecommunicators work directly with the public, law enforcement, fire departments, and various other public safety agencies to provide both emergent and non-emergent responses to incidents within our County.
Individuals in this role are passionate about giving back to the community and have the ability to multi-task and remain calm and professional in a variety of situations.
Hear from some of our dedicated 911 Telecommunicators!
Pottawattamie County offers employees a strong benefit plan at a reasonable cost. Our benefit offerings include health, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, and other voluntary benefits. To highlight some of our amazing benefits:
We offer a family plan at $233.28 per month cost to the employee, with an additional $30 savings if the employee participates in the wellness program.
$1500 family deductible
100% employer paid long-term disability coverage
Premium free dental coverage
generous paid time off; sick leave and vacation leave
IPERS retirement; Unlike benefits from other retirement plans, IPERS benefits aren’t tied to the performance of the stock market. With IPERS, you don’t need to make complicated investment decisions for your retirement dreams to become a reality.
For full details on Pottawattamie County's extensive benefits, view the Benefit Guide!
Schedule: Hours of work are 12-hour shifts; 6:00 AM to 6:00 P.M. or 6:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M. Employees will enjoy every other Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off!
Hiring Process: Selected applicants will be required to pass all phases of the hiring process that are listed below before final employment. If you are a veteran and qualify for veteran’s preference points, you will be required to provide a copy of your DD-214; you may attach to your application.
CritiCall Testing - A Computer-based exam simulating the job skills necessary to be a successful 911 Telecommunicator; testing can last up to two (2) hours. To learn more, click here.
Completion of background packet
1st interview with subsequent observation and 2nd interview
Dispatch law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services personnel while simultaneously tracking and documenting status of personnel and equipment dispatched.
Answer incoming emergency and non-emergency calls, obtain required information needed for field responders; make referrals as appropriate. Maintain awareness of activities of other telecommunications operators and assists as needed.
Operate various software programs related to providing support to authorized public safety personnel and agencies in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
Maintain records in accordance with established procedures.
Performs other duties as directed or as the situation dictates.
Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Ability
Knowledge of geography of Pottawattamie County including street locations and common places.
Ability to problem solve and act quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
Ability to read, write and speak the English language proficiently and communicate clearly and effectively.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to simultaneously communicate, interpret communications, and enter data into multiple software systems with speed and accuracy while managing frequent interruptions.
Ability to communicate tactfully and efficiently with the public, including those who are frightened, incoherent, or hostile while simultaneously being able to coordinate an emergency response.
Ability to handle and maintain information of a confidential and sensitive nature.
Must be 18 years of age and be a graduate of an accredited high school or possess an equivalency certificate (GED).
Must have a valid driver's license upon hire.
Must obtain required certifications and licenses within a timeframe as established by the employer and maintain throughout the duration of employment.
Must attend continuing education training programs and meet all standards set forth by Federal and State of Iowa Law and as set forth by the employer.
Must be able and willing to work 12- hour shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. Must be able and willing to work overtime when required. Attendance is required during inclement weather.
Preferred Experience
Experience as a 911 call-taker and/or dispatcher or in the field of public safety.
Experience working in a fast-paced environment providing customer service.
Higher pay will be offered to candidates with PSAP experience.
