Emergency Communications Officer

The City of Grande Prairie is a vibrant, growing community in Alberta's beautiful Peace Country region. We are committed to providing exceptional public service and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Grande Prairie is a great place to live, work, and play.

The City of Grande Prairie is seeking permanent full-time and part-time Emergency Communications Officers. The Public Safety Communications Center (PSCC) serves as the region's primary PSAP and provides fire and police dispatch services.

Position Responsibilities

• The ECO is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and prioritizing emergent, non-emergent, and administrative calls in accordance with established protocols and procedures. This includes obtaining, verifying, and distributing critical information, determining immediate needs, and dispatching appropriate services.
• The ECO operates multiple communication systems, including Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), two-way radios, and other relevant technologies to dispatch personnel and units for police and fire services. The role requires continuous monitoring of radio traffic for status updates and responder safety, as well as maintaining clear and effective communication with field personnel, partner agencies, and the public.
• In addition, the ECO provides pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions to callers, supports inter-agency coordination, and delivers operational support during routine and high-risk incidents. The position requires the ability to analyze events, assess risk, and adapt quickly in high-pressure environments with shifting priorities.
• Accurate and timely documentation is essential, including maintaining records, updating event information, and responding to database queries. The ECO is also responsible for participating in the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) program, adhering to Alberta 911 Standards, and complying with all departmental policies and procedures.
• This role involves ongoing competency-based training and progression, with a strong focus on developing cross-functional skills to achieve standardized dual-discipline (Fire and Police) proficiency required for advancement.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Computer proficiency (MS Office, Windows)
• Typing speed of 30+ WPM with high accuracy
• Standard First Aid & CPR Level C
• Ability to obtain and maintain an enhanced security clearance
• Successful completion of aptitude assessments and PSCC Training Evaluation
• Previous dispatch experience is preferred but not required

Hours

The standard workweek is 42 hours, with the specific schedule determined by the immediate supervisor. You will be required to complete shiftwork, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as this is a 24/7 operation.

Compensation

Salary ranges from $39.32 - $52.43 per hour as per the IAFF Collective Agreement.

Benefits

Relocation incentives may be considered for this position. Comprehensive benefits package. What We Offer | City of Grande Prairie (cityofgp.com) LAPP Pension and supplementary pension for IAFF employees.

Diversity & Inclusion

The City of Grande Prairie is committed to building and sustaining an inclusive work environment composed of individuals with unique experiences, perspectives, talents, and contributions who welcome, support, respect and value all members of the community.

Selection Process

• The first review of applications will take place on August 27th and continue at one-week intervals until suitable candidates are found. If you're interested in this position, we encourage you to apply early. We appreciate your interest in our organization, and we thank you in advance for your application. Candidates selected for an interview will be notified via phone or email.
• To apply for this position, please utilize the "Apply Now" tab on this web page to submit your comprehensive cover letter and up-to-date resume. The hiring committee will review and screen the online applications. Short-listed candidates will be contacted to participate in the hiring process.
• Our hiring process includes an aptitude test, HR interview, shift observation, medical clearance (including vision and hearing requirements), psychological assessment, reference checks, and an enhanced security clearance.

Note: After submitting your application and uploading your resume, you should expect an email confirmation indicating that your application for this position has been successfully submitted. If you receive this email, there is no need for any additional contact with us regarding this position.

To efficiently manage the high volume of applications we receive for each job posting, we cannot address job-specific inquiries before the interview stage. However, we will gladly answer any questions if you progress to the interview stage.