911 Operator - job 1 of 2

As a 911 Operator with the City of Fort Worth Police Department, your primary responsibilities include receiving emergency 911 and non-emergency calls, gathering critical information, and dispatching appropriate responses. You will play a crucial role in ensuring safety and efficiency during emergency situations, handling various queries, and making quick decisions to direct callers to the help they need.

To qualify for the 911 Operator position at the City of Fort Worth, candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and be U.S. citizens. Additionally, they should be able to pass extensive background checks, including a polygraph examination, drug screening, and psychological evaluation. Having excellent communication skills and the ability to think clearly under pressure is also essential.

New 911 Operators at the City of Fort Worth undergo a comprehensive training process that includes two phases. Phase I focuses on learning how to manage a variety of emergency and routine calls, while Phase II involves hands-on training with police officers to dispatch units efficiently. This training is crucial for developing the skills necessary for success in emergency situations.

Yes, being a 911 Operator at the City of Fort Worth requires working 2nd or 3rd shifts, weekends, and holidays, along with mandatory overtime as needed. The role demands flexibility and resilience, as emergency situations can arise at any time, and your commitment ensures the safety of the community you serve.

The City of Fort Worth offers a robust benefits package to its 911 Operators, which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with 11 paid holidays and generous paid time off. Additionally, there’s a pension plan, opportunities for professional development, and a $2,000 sign-on incentive, making this position not only rewarding but also financially advantageous.

In your response, focus on your ability to stay calm under pressure and outline the steps you took to effectively gather information and support the caller. Emphasize the importance of communication skills and problem-solving in maintaining control during stressful situations.

Share your method for assessing the urgency of calls and how you determine prioritization based on the information provided. Highlight your ability to think critically and work efficiently while ensuring that every caller feels valued and attended to.

Discuss qualities such as empathy, effective communication, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Provide examples of how these traits have been beneficial in your experiences or how you plan to apply them in this role.

Talk about your experience with computer-aided dispatching systems and any specific tools or software you have used in previous roles. Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt to the technologies utilized by the City of Fort Worth.

Explain your approach to overcoming language barriers by using translation tools or seeking assistance from bilingual colleagues. Emphasize the importance of providing assistance to every caller, regardless of language differences.

Share techniques you use to stay engaged, such as taking short breaks to recharge, staying organized, and employing mindfulness techniques to remain present. Stress the importance of self-care in providing effective assistance.

Speak about your passion for helping others, the importance of community service, and how each call represents an opportunity to make a difference. Share any personal stories that support your motivation.

Outline your strategy for diffusing tension, including techniques like speaking calmly, validating the caller’s feelings, and guiding them through the conversation. Highlight your skills in active listening and emotional support.

Explain the critical role of a 911 Operator in managing calls efficiently, gathering necessary information quickly, and collaborating effectively with first responders to ensure timely assistance. Detail the balance of compassion and decisiveness required in high-pressure environments.

Discuss your understanding of the importance of adhering to established protocols while also recognizing the human element of each call. Emphasize your focus on being empathetic while remaining professional and effective in your responses.