Emergency Communications Operator

Strathcona County Emergency Services provides twenty-four hour, seven days a week emergency communication and dispatch services to Strathcona County and other partners. Reporting to the Lieutenant of Emergency Communications, the Emergency Communications Operator (ECO) is responsible for answering, processing, recording, and dispatching requests for both emergent and non-emergent incidents. Engaged as an integral part of the community’s emergency response system, the ECO provides clear, accurate and customer focused emergency communications to assist in efficient and effective responses.

This posting is for 1 temporary full-time position up to 12 months

Key Responsibilities

• Efficiently answer, process and monitor all 911 calls received by the emergency communications centre and transfer as appropriate within established guidelines
• Calmly obtain all required information from callers with complete accuracy and professionalism
• Dispatch appropriate stations, apparatus and personnel using computer-aided dispatch systems
• Monitor radio channels, utilizing correct radio terminology, and responding as required
• Ensures functions of the communications centre meet quality management standards
• Maintain confidentiality and FOIP regulation
• Support continuous improvement with accurate record keeping and commitment to efficient operations
Work as a team member in a high stress environment, and manage a variety of tasks simultaneously

Qualifications and Skills

• Completed education in an accredited post secondary Emergency Communications program
• Minimum 1 year of work experience in a related field, preferably in 911 or fire dispatch
• Emergency Fire Dispatch Certification from the National Academy of Emergency Dispatch is an asset
• Working knowledge of computer-aided dispatch and radio operations is an asset
• Ability to multi-task, rapidly prioritize and manage stress in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Excellent computer skills with the ability to adapt to changing technologies
• Strong communication skills to effectively deal with people in person, by telephone or radio under stressful conditions
• Ability to maintain a positive, accountable and customer service focused culture across the organization
Geographical knowledge of Strathcona County and east central Alberta is an asset

Conditions of Employment

• Submission of satisfactory Criminal Record Check
Available to work a variety of shifts which will include days, evenings, nights, weekends and statutory holidays; to support service delivery in this 24 hour a day environment

Who we are

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, collaboration, and accountability.

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.