SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH hiring Communication Specialist I/Public Safety in Columbia, South Carolina, United States | LinkedIn (2024)

Job ResponsibilitiesWith our Agency's mission to support the recovery of people with mental illnesses, we provide a complete array of medical and support services for children, adults, and families throughout South Carolina.This position is located at the Department of Mental Health, Public safety division, Crafts-Farrow, 7901 Farrow Rd, Columbia, SC 29203.

As the Communication Specialist I, working under the supervision of the shift supervisor, assistant supervisor and Chief of Public Safety Services Central District, you will monitor and operate the master control radio stations for all Public Safety Districts and Investigations for SCDMH. Provides continuous operations for Public Safety radio frequencies.

Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To

• Enforces all departmental and Federal Communications rules and regulations.
• Handles incoming/outcoming calls update Policy Procedure Manuals, work closely with other agencies.
• Maintains logs, files and records.
• Operates NCIC Terminal and other related equipment and make daily reports.
• Answers telephones and dispatches officers as needed.
• Receives and relays information for other agencies.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable CALEA standards.
• Monitors Power DMS (Data management System) for training, policies and procedures notifications.
• Checks reports for accuracy and completeness, prepares leave without permission reports (EFF).
• Maintains radio logs and records all calls/information on logs.
• Maintains decal file system/enters information into computer, maintains daily activity log for officers on duty, vehicles being used, equipment checked out and Service Breakdown log.
• Participates in all Practice Disaster/Emergencies utilizing the notification procedures, ensures that all equipment operating properly and assists with arrangements for repairs when needed.
• Monitors fire alarms, burglar alarms and dispatch officers/fire trucks as needed.
• Assists DMH Public Safety Services in maintaining contact with local, county and state law enforcement agencies as needed and provide information to officers on duty.

Minimum And Additional RequirementsState Minimum Requirements: A high school diploma.

Agency Requirements: A high school diploma and one (1) year experience working with the operation of modern communication systems. Must be able to complete the SLED/CJICS NCIC Certification course within six (6) months of hire; ability to speak clearly and receives/relay information accurately. Good telephone manners, good reading/writing skills and good spelling skills. Good working knowledge of telephone use, communication skills and fire equipment.

Note: If any Agency Requirements are listed above, applicants must also meet those requirements to be considered for the position.

Preferred QualificationsBilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus.

Additional Comments The selected candidate must be able to work irregular shifts and is subject to call twenty-four (24) hours a day for emergencies or when needed. Must be able to work alone and ask for assistance as needed. Must read and study current manuals and relative materials which are maintained in the radio room. Must read and understand all memos. The South Carolina Department of Mental Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity Agency. We provide affirmative action and equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, sex – including the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, national origin, age, religion, or disability.

South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. Please account for any and all gaps of employment in your application. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of application completion nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

The South Carolina Department of Mental Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave accrual per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs