Job Details

Job Details
About City of Grand Rapids

Emergency Communications Operator I- Police

Job Code Number

400337299

Job Description

Nature of Work

The purpose of this job is to manage 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls for service from the public requesting police, fire, or medical assistance. The work includes gathering, classifying, and supplementing essential information from the caller and entering it into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Dispatching police officers to calls for service and providing support to responders in the field. Maintaining and processing queries, departmental records, and communications using the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) systems.

The standard work schedule consists of three 12-hour shifts and one six-hour shift per week with a two-week rotation and every other weekend off. As a 24/7/365 operation, the position requires work on various shifts, weekends, and holidays, as well as mandatory overtime on days off and in conjunction with regular shifts, as assigned.

After successful completion of required training, employees will test for promotion to the Emergency Communications Operator II position with a salary range of $57,010 to $80,270.

Starting pay up to $31.15 hourly for candidates with 3+years of relevant experience

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be required to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Processes requests for assistance from the public and dispatches calls for service to appropriate units and maintains status of emergency responders using Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and radio system.

Obtains and verifies incident information from callers through verbal, text, and telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) conversations in accordance with established protocols, utilizing 9-1-1 telephone equipment, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), and Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping systems.

Accesses and maintains information from Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) systems

Monitors assigned channels and communicates with emergency responders using two-way radio equipment

Maintains records and prepares reports

Performs related work as required

Minimum Training and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent --AND-- No related work experience --OR-- Any equivalent combination of training and experience Other Necessary Qualifications

Knowledge of:

Modern office procedures, methods, and computer equipment
Personal computers and associated software

Skill in:

Interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective and appropriate working relationships
Performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature
Interpreting maps
Keyboard entry and record-keeping
Effective oral and written communication

Ability to:

Meet schedules and deadlines of the work
Perform multiple tasks simultaneously
Understand and carry out oral and written directions
Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
Pay attention to detail, stay calm, and manage stress in emergency situations
Maintain the confidentiality of information and professional boundaries
Operate a multi-screen console connected to 9-1-1 telephone equipment, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), and communications equipment and recording devices
Keep records and operate a data entry device at a proficient rate of speed
Think clearly and act quickly in emergency situations.
Wear communications headgear for extended periods of time
Memorize industry specific vocabulary and codes
Obtain NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 certifications
Perform duties from the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) or Mobile Command Post as required

Other Information

ASSESSMENT PROCESS

The City of Grand Rapids permits one application submission per person per application period. Reapplication for future postings is permitted and welcomed. Candidates must pass each step to continue in the process.

Application Review (8/24/26)
Performance Exam (Computer Simulation) (8/25/26 – 9/1/26)
Interview (In-person at GRPD) 9/8/26 & 9/9/26

Background Review:
The background review process takes approximately 8–10 weeks and includes:

Completion of a 65-page Personal History Questionnaire, providing detailed information and verification of education, employment, finances, legal history, driving record, references, relatives, residency, and an autobiography
Comprehensive review and verification of all submitted documentation
Legal, criminal, and financial records checks
Reference checks, including primary, secondary, and tertiary contacts
An in-person interview at the Grand Rapids Police Department

Job Shadow

Pre-Employment Screening:

Psychological testing
Medical examination (Med-1)
Drug screening (Med-1)
Audio (hearing) test (Med-1)

Organization Profile

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Job Summary

Organization

City of Grand Rapids View Profile

Employer Website

Location

Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503

Job Code Number

400337299

Positions Available

Expiration Date

8/21/2026

O*NET Code

43-5031.00

O*NET Occupation

Public Safety Telecommunicators

Pay Range

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Job Details

Emergency Communications Operator I- Police

Nature of Work

Minimum Training and Experience

Other Necessary Qualifications

Other Information

Organization Profile

Job Summary

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