SAANICH FIRE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATOR RECRUITMENT INFORMATION AUGUST 2018
INTRODUCTION PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATOR The Saanich Fire Department was established in 1919. Today the Department employs nearly 130 personnel, representing the Suppression / Rescue, Fire Prevention, Training, Communication, Mechanical, Emergency Program and Administration Divisions. The District of Saanich is an area of 103.4 square kilometres which includes approximately 114,800 people. Saanich s diverse terrain, with ocean coastline, lakes, forests and mountains makes for a variety of emergency responses. The Saanich Fire Department s mandate is to protect citizens and property; to provide all proper measures to prevent control and extinguish fires and provide assistance to medical emergencies, land and marine rescue operations, requests from other fire services, hazardous materials incidents and requests for public service. In addition to the delivery of firefighting and rescue services, the Department is responsible for a variety of contract services and programs. Contract for delivery of Fire Dispatch, High Angle Rescue and Mechanical services are in place with a number of neighbouring municipalities. Programs delivered by the Department include; Marine response, Medical First Responder, Technical Rescue, Juvenile Fire Setter Intervention, Incident Pre-Planning, General Fire Safety Inspections of Public Buildings. The Saanich Fire Department is also responsible for the administration of the Saanich Emergency Program. The Department s good standing in the community is attributed to the commitment and dedication of its members and their desire to provide the highest level of public service. Page 2
Applications for employment are accepted only for District of Saanich competition postings that are advertised on the Saanich website, Saanich job posting boards, and selectively in other public media. It is our policy to not accept general applications for employment. To find out about any current postings, visit www.saanich.ca, and click on Careers @ Saanich. Applicants must be in good mental and physical health, able to meet established medical and industry standards, work shifts, and qualify in essential job function and suitability tests. We appreciate all applications, but only those applicants under consideration will be contacted. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: High School Graduation or equivalency. Proof is to be included with all applications. Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate verbally in English, sufficient to ensure clear understanding. Ability to work in a team environment. Ability to work effectively and make quick decisions in situations of significant stress. Ability to deal courteously, tactfully and diplomatically with members of the general public and all internal and external clients and co-workers. Accurate typing / word processing at a minimum speed of 40 net WPM (current certificate required). A typing certificate from a recognized educational institution, dated within six (6) months of posting is to be included with all applications. Hearing ability to effectively operate all radio, telephone, recording and other audio equipment including the ability to recognize audio from more than one source at a time. A satisfactory Hearing Audiogram from a Registered Audiologist dated within six (6) months of posting is to be included with all applications. Visual ability to effectively operate computerized and other related equipment, including the ability to distinguish colour-coded text, images, and icons on computer screens and radio terminal equipment (verified in full pre-employment medical). Police Information Check (dated within three (3) months of posting to be included with all applications) Experience in operating computers (basic MS Windows knowledge) Valid Driver s Licence (copy to be included with all applications) Page 3
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS: Previous Fire Dispatch and/or related experience Successful completion of recognized NFPA 1061 Public Safety Telecommunicator courses or post-secondary courses in communications or emergency response training Considerable geographical knowledge of the dispatch response areas including location of streets, major buildings and complexes Experience in operating 2 way radio communications equipment Experience with voice logging equipment Experience with radio paging systems Completion of incident Command Structure (ICS) courses Experience with Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Fire Records Management Systems (RMS) Completion of Restricted Radio Operator License COMPENSATION The monthly salary range for this International Association of Fire Fighters Local 967 full time position is $5,627 - $7,662 per month (2018 rates) with an excellent benefits package. Part-time rates are $30.92 - $41.08 per hour based on cumulative hours with an additional 14% of gross earnings in lieu of benefits. HOURS AND SCHEDULE OF WORK FOR ALARM DISPATCHERS Alarm Dispatchers are shift workers. The normal hours for day shifts are 0800-1800 hrs, and night shifts are 1800-0800. Full-Time Alarm Dispatchers typically work a cycle of two day shifts then two night shifts followed by four days off. Full-Time and Part-Time Alarm Dispatchers may be utilized for peak operational periods (partial shifts) or backfill for vacation, illness, training, or scheduled time off. In addition to pre-scheduled staffing requirements, Alarm Dispatchers are expected to be available for short notice staffing requirements including emergency call-in support for large scale incidents. For additional information, visit our website at www.saanich.ca Page 4
RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCEDURE The recruitment process will consist of stages that may include the following: Application Dispatch Simulation and Testing Personal Interviews Reference Checks Selection for Eligibility Medical Examination Employment Offer Recruit Training Applicants must pass through ALL of the stages that are included in the process. 1. Those who fail to meet the required standard at any stage will NOT be permitted to proceed to the next stage in the Selection process. 2. The Saanich Fire Department reserves the right to limit the number of candidates who will proceed to the next stage. 3. Candidates may be disqualified if they do not meet deadlines. 4. Candidates with the minimum qualifications do not automatically proceed to the next stage. 5. Saanich reserves the right to modify the recruitment and selection process based on operational and logistical needs; modifications will be communicated to the shortlisted applicants. Page 5
APPLICATION Applications will be accepted from the advertised/posted opening date until 1630 hours on posting closing date: Online at www.saanich.ca Email to careers@saanich.ca In person at Human Resources at the Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave, between 0830 and 1630 hours, Monday to Friday All supporting documentation MUST be submitted including: 1. Application form 2. Legible photocopy of current Driver s Licence (both sides) 3. A full and complete Police Information Check from the Police Department serving the area the candidate resides within, dated within three (3) months of the competition posting or a receipt showing that one has been requested. 4. Proof of High School graduation. This must be a Provincial Board of Education Diploma, a high school transcript which clearly states that required credits were achieved for graduation, or a high school equivalency certificate. 5. A copy of any additional, relevant educational transcripts, relevant licences and certificates 6. A hearing audiogram report from a Registered Audiologist, dated within six months of the competition posting 7. A typing certificate dated within six months of the competition posting from a recognized institution, indicating a speed greater than 40 WPM. Applicants are responsible for providing all information regarding their qualifications and experience. A resume attached to your application is recommended. DISPATCH SIMULATION AND SUITABILITY TESTING Selected candidates may be invited to complete testing that may include Dispatch Simulation, Suitability, and Behavioural tests. The Saanich Fire Department uses CritiCall. CritiCall is a computer and audio based testing software application that tests dispatcher, call-taker, and telecommunicator applicants in computer and other dispatch job-related skills. The CritiCall test has several assessment components that assist in evaluating the applicants decision making ability, listening skills, data entry, map reading, memory, prioritization, multi-tasking, spelling, and reading comprehension skills in a simulated dispatch environment. Applicants may obtain more information on CritiCall at www.criti-call.com. At this stage, other testing may be conducted to determine candidates aptitude, suitability, and behavioural characteristics as they relate to the position of Alarm Dispatcher. Testing sessions are scheduled during regular business hours. Page 6
PERSONAL INTERVIEWS PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATOR Selected candidates may be invited to attend one or more interviews. A panel interview will be conducted by senior departmental officers and a representative from the Union (IAFF). At the time of the panel interview all candidates must provide proof of required licences, certifications and education, along with minimum and desirable qualifications. A peer interview may also be conducted and candidates will be notified accordingly. All Interviews are scheduled during regular business hours REFERENCE CHECKS Candidates may have references checked at any stage of the competition process. Each candidate will be required to submit not less than three references from current or previous employers. Candidates may also submit personal references in support of their application; however, they will not be accepted in place of current or previous employment references. SELECTION FOR ELIGIBILITY The selection panel will review the results at each stage of the process to determine the status of each candidate. Candidates not successful in filling immediate vacancies may have their applications retained for consideration of future Alarm Dispatcher vacancies. NOTE: The Saanich Fire Department reserves the right to commence a new competition at any time. MEDICAL EXAMINATION Selected candidates may be asked to complete a medical examination by a doctor of our choice and have the results of that examination forwarded to the Saanich Fire Department. EMPLOYMENT OFFER Offers of employment may be made to selected applicants, subject to successfully passing a Saanich Fire Department medical examination. TRAINING New Alarm Dispatchers will be required to attend a two week training period, followed by scheduled on the job training and progressive testing. New staff will serve a probationary period with an hourly duration equivalent to 12 months of regular full time work. Page 7
ALARM DISPATCHER JOB DESCRIPTION (Shift Work) DEFINITION The Alarm Dispatcher works with a partner, under the supervision of the Communications Officer and the general supervision of a Battalion Chief. The Fire Department Alarm Dispatcher is the primary link between emergencies in the community and the fire department response. The Alarm Dispatcher receives 9-1-1 emergency calls, non-emergency calls, and requests for service from other agencies (Police and Ambulance, etc.). The Alarm Dispatcher is responsible for the dispatching of the appropriate fire department personnel and other resources to emergency calls for all fire departments dispatched by Saanich Fire Department. The Alarm Dispatcher is responsible for providing radio and information support to field units as required. When necessary, the Alarm Dispatcher co-ordinates communications between fire departments in mutual aid situations. The Alarm Dispatcher requests the dispatch of other agencies in accordance with procedures and instructions as required. An understanding of the operation and maintenance of all primary and secondary (back up) equipment and systems used to receive, retain or retrieve calls is essential. The Alarm Dispatcher ensures information on file is current for all agencies dispatched and that their emergency dispatch procedures are up to date at all times. The Alarm Dispatcher must continually remain prepared to handle major emergencies and to react calmly and rationally when an emergency does arise. Although there are standard guidelines in place, each emergency requires that the Alarm Dispatcher react quickly and correctly to the situation. KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY AND SKILL ON THE JOB Strong written and verbal communications skills; ability to communicate verbally in English, sufficient to ensure clear understanding. Ability to work effectively and make quick decisions in situations of significant stress. Ability to deal courteously, tactfully, and diplomatically with members of the general public and all internal and external clients and co-workers. Considerable geographical knowledge of the dispatch response areas, including location of streets, major buildings, and complexes. Considerable knowledge of the fire department incident command system. Page 8
Demonstrates Saanich Core Competencies as they relate to this position: Adaptability - willingness to be flexible in a changing work environment Relationship Building - establishes and maintains respectful and cooperative working relationships Effective Communications - communicates effectively, courteously with others Problem Solving - recognizes and acts to resolve problems Customer Focus - provides excellent service to both internal and external customers. REQUIREMENTS Completion of Grade 12 or equivalency. Accurate typing / word processing at a minimum speed of 40 net words per minute. Hearing ability to effectively operate all radio, telephone, recording and other audio equipment, including the ability to recognize audio from more than one source at a time. Visual ability to effectively operate computerized and other related equipment, including the ability to distinguish colour-coded text, images, and icons on computer screens and radio terminal equipment. Experience in operating computers (basic MS Windows knowledge) Valid Driver s Licence ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Receives all fire emergency calls or requests for assistance from the public or other agencies. Obtains all pertinent information from the caller and records the details in the prescribed manner. Assesses emergency calls to determine response requirements. Dispatches, in a timely manner, fire resources and equipment, from the fire department/region involved, according to standard operating guidelines. In cases of large fires, receives mutual aid calls, dispatches appropriate fire department and, when necessary, coordinates communications between fire departments. Monitors fire department radio communications and equipment and automatic fire reporting systems. During a fire incident, maintains radio contact with fire department personnel (local and regional) and provides operational support by relaying requests for additional resources and equipment or by contacting other emergency services as required. Notifies senior staff and other on-call resources as required. Page 9
Monitors and records operational status and location of all personnel, companies/apparatus in the prescribed manner. Ensures that apparatus move-ups are managed to ensure an appropriate distribution of fire department resources within standard operating guidelines and in consultation with the on-duty Battalion Chief. Receives non-fire related calls (e.g. ambulance, police, hydro, and public works) and refers the caller to the appropriate response agency and, when necessary, takes the information and calls the agency. Receives calls regarding regulations and by-laws and provides answers, or when appropriate, refers the caller to the appropriate person, or takes the caller s number and notifies department personnel. Monitors the Public Works emergency phone line during non-business hours, receives calls, takes pertinent information, determines if the problem involves Public Works and dispatches Public Works employees in the order specified in the call-out lists. Assists in developing and maintaining maps of dispatch response areas. Assists in maintaining computerized pre-plans of commercial buildings indicating layout, presence of dangerous materials, and other data relevant to fire fighting teams and dispatchers. Assists in developing and maintaining standard operating guidelines, contact lists, and other documents for agencies serviced by the dispatch centre. Assists with training, orientating, and mentoring of new alarm dispatchers. Monitors and operates a variety of telecommunications, computer, voice logging, and paging equipment used in the Communications Centre. Conducts radio and pager tests as required. Performs back-up procedure tests as required. Is capable of performing all duties using the primary or secondary (manual) systems. Performs regular upkeep and minor maintenance duties in the Communications Centre, and ensures Communications Centre is clean and prepared for the dispatcher on the next shift. Performs a variety of support duties for other fire departments as assigned. Performs other duties as assigned by the Fire Chief. Assists Department personnel with routine CAD or RMS matters in the absence of the Communications Officer. Responds to inquiries from the media in accordance with current operating guidelines. Performs other related duties as required. Page 10
STANDARDS Support and uphold the established policies and objectives of the Municipality and the Department in all areas of activity. Will not release or discuss non-routine municipal or departmental business without prior authorization. Adhere to all established municipal and departmental rules and regulations. Maintain the performance levels set by the Department in the execution of all duties and responsibilities. Maintain cooperative working relationships with employees, management, Council, and the public. Maintain regular communication with Department officers and supervisors, keeping them fully informed of all non-routine, urgent and/or controversial matters. Shall not receive or solicit a subscription, gratuity, or fee for or in conjunction with any service or presumed service performed by him/her as an employee. Uphold the Municipal Safety Policy; promote, monitor and ensure compliance with the Workers Compensation Board regulations within the workplace. Page 11