City of Cocoa
Job Description
Under the direction of the Support Services Supervisor, the Dispatcher/Communications Officer provides police and fire dispatching services in the communications facility of the Cocoa Police Department. The officer answers incoming calls, screens them for accurate routing, dispatches police and fire assistance, transmits messages on the teletype network, gathers intelligence, monitors transmissions, and broadcasts public‑safety information using an 800 MHz radio network, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System, and Emergency 9‑1‑1 System.
Essential Job Functions
Dispatches messages and police/fire units; channels telephone calls to proper departments.
Maps city zones to dispatch nearest personnel and equipment.
Gathers and reports intelligence; maintains logs in the Communication Center.
Ensures all records and documents remain secure and confidential.
Monitors facilities via on‑site audio/visual devices.
Verifies equipment is operational; troubleshoots and requests repairs.
Co‑ordinates shift schedules ensuring adequate coverage.
Responds to recall‑to‑duty during emergencies, holidays, weekends, or natural disasters.
Performs typing tasks on the CAD System and file duties during shifts.
Disseminates written material such as directives and bulletins.
Communicates essential operational information to incoming shifts.
Maintains professional relationships with member departments and treats the public courteously.
May be required to work during declared or undeclared emergencies.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of federal, state, and local ordinances related to public safety.
Knowledge of PC operations and software: word processing, spreadsheets, CAD.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and related office equipment.
Typing speed ≥ 40 WPM.
Effective oral and written communication.
Ability to give and receive geographic directions.
Capacity to handle high‑priority, fast‑paced, stressful situations.
Rapid analytical decision‑making in public service environments. Education & Experience High school diploma or GED certificate.
Special Qualifications
Valid current Florida driver’s license, or ability to obtain within 45 days.
Typing exam score ≥ 40 WPM.
Computer‑based multitasking exam with passing score.
Comprehensive background investigation; polygraph/CVSA, drug screen, and physical exam.
CJIS certification obtained within 6 months.
FEMA certifications and public safety telecommunication certification within 12 months.
Preferred experience with radio dispatch equipment.
Essential Physical Skills
Dexterity – fingers for picking, pinching, typing.
Hearing – can understand normal speech, with or without correction.
Mental acuity – rational decision making.
Reaching – extend hand/arm in any direction.
Repetitive motion – substantial wrist/hand/finger movements.
Speaking – clear, accurate, concise communication.
Visual acuity – reading, data analysis, and computer screen viewing (color, depth, field).
Work Environment & Benefits
Dynamic environment with changing priorities; errors can have significant consequences.
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long‑term disability.
10 paid holidays per year.
Vacation & sick time.
Retirement – Police Pension Plan.
Complimentary health clinic.
Discounts, wellness benefits, and more.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Essential Job Functions
Dispatches messages and police/fire units; channels telephone calls to proper departments.
Maps city zones to dispatch nearest personnel and equipment.
Gathers and reports intelligence; maintains logs in the Communication Center.
Ensures all records and documents remain secure and confidential.
Monitors facilities via on‑site audio/visual devices.
Verifies equipment is operational; troubleshoots and requests repairs.
Co‑ordinates shift schedules ensuring adequate coverage.
Responds to recall‑to‑duty during emergencies, holidays, weekends, or natural disasters.
Performs typing tasks on the CAD System and file duties during shifts.
Disseminates written material such as directives and bulletins.
Communicates essential operational information to incoming shifts.
Maintains professional relationships with member departments and treats the public courteously.
May be required to work during declared or undeclared emergencies.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of federal, state, and local ordinances related to public safety.
Knowledge of PC operations and software: word processing, spreadsheets, CAD.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and related office equipment.
Typing speed ≥ 40 WPM.
Effective oral and written communication.
Ability to give and receive geographic directions.
Capacity to handle high‑priority, fast‑paced, stressful situations.
Rapid analytical decision‑making in public service environments. Education & Experience High school diploma or GED certificate.
Special Qualifications
Valid current Florida driver’s license, or ability to obtain within 45 days.
Typing exam score ≥ 40 WPM.
Computer‑based multitasking exam with passing score.
Comprehensive background investigation; polygraph/CVSA, drug screen, and physical exam.
CJIS certification obtained within 6 months.
FEMA certifications and public safety telecommunication certification within 12 months.
Preferred experience with radio dispatch equipment.
Essential Physical Skills
Dexterity – fingers for picking, pinching, typing.
Hearing – can understand normal speech, with or without correction.
Mental acuity – rational decision making.
Reaching – extend hand/arm in any direction.
Repetitive motion – substantial wrist/hand/finger movements.
Speaking – clear, accurate, concise communication.
Visual acuity – reading, data analysis, and computer screen viewing (color, depth, field).
Work Environment & Benefits
Dynamic environment with changing priorities; errors can have significant consequences.
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long‑term disability.
10 paid holidays per year.
Vacation & sick time.
Retirement – Police Pension Plan.
Complimentary health clinic.
Discounts, wellness benefits, and more.
#J-18808-Ljbffr