01/08/2013 73029

POLICE COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR INSTRUCTOR

DEFINITION: This is administrative work in the instruction of public safety communications procedures and equipment to Police Communications Operators (PCOs) in the Pennsylvania State Police.

An employee in this job develops, conducts, and evaluates classroom instruction of PCOs. Work involves developing and revising entrant and journey-level public safety communications curriculum, delivering training in a classroom environment, and measuring the effectiveness of instruction. Work may also involve providing direction to adjunct instructors assigned to assist with certain courses. Work includes providing instruction in the practices and procedures associated with receiving calls for emergency and non-emergency police services, determining response requirements and priorities, dispatching units and relaying information, maintaining records, and operating telecommunications equipment. Work is performed under the general direction of an administrative supervisor and is reviewed through reports, conferences, and evaluation of results.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Plans, develops, and revises curriculum, course materials, and techniques for the instruction of public safety communications.

Delivers course content to PCOs through discussions, audio-visual presentations, and situational exercises.

Demonstrates usage of radio and telephone equipment and specialized computer software.

Provides direction, training, and feedback to adjunct instructors on course content and presentation.

Trains PCOs on department policies, procedures, and practices pertaining to public safety communications.

Measures and assesses learning progress of course participants and offers remedial training as necessary.

Issues and maintains training and certification records for PCOs. Instructs State Police Cadets regarding radio and communications desk duties.

Evaluates the effectiveness of instructional programs in meeting established goals and objectives.

Participates in the performance of PCO work involving receiving, transmitting, and coordinating communications at a State Police installation to retain skills and apply knowledge to instructional duties.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of telecommunications equipment such as radios, multi-line telephones, and personal computer consoles.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of public safety communications.

Knowledge of emergency response procedures.

Knowledge of department policies, procedures, and regulations pertaining to police communications work.

Ability to read and interpret maps.

Ability to analyze and interpret policies, procedures and regulations.

Ability to prioritize incoming calls and messages.

Ability to understand spoken information.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Three years as a Police Communications Operator.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a clear, firm voice and no speech, hearing, or visual impairments that would interfere with being understood, understanding incoming communications, or using communications equipment.

Possession of a valid Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network Certification issued by the Pennsylvania State Police. Possession of a valid Basic Telecommunicator Certification issued by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials.

POST EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENT: Attainment of a valid Telecommunicator Instructor Certification issued by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials during the probationary period.