Communications Specialist in Panama City, Florida at Bay County Sheriff's Office (FL)

This position performs essential civilian services for a full-service law enforcement agency and is responsible for answering emergency and nonemergency calls, dispatching deputies, processing deputy requests, and providing support to first responders during emergency situations. The ideal candidate must be able to handle high-pressure situations, communicate clearly and effectively, and maintain professionalism at all times. Must be willing to serve the community with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

The entry level compensation for this position is $52,229.19 $500 Retention/Longevity Pay).


- Answer 911 emergency and non-emergency calls from the public.
- Dispatch first responders to the appropriate location.
- Ability to accurately and efficiently gather critical information from callers, including the nature of the emergency, location, and any other relevant details and accurately enter the information into the computer for responders.
- Operate radio equipment to communicate with first responders in the field.
- Monitor and maintain accurate records of emergency calls and dispatches.
- Provide emergency medical instructions to callers as needed until first responders arrive.
- Maintain a calm and professional demeanor in stressful and potentially dangerous situations.
- Coordinate with other public safety agencies and departments.
- Assist in handling of routine administrative tasks related to dispatch operations.
- Participate in regular training and certification updates as required by the department.
- Monitor radio transmissions required radio channels, respond to requests made over said frequencies, and maintain appropriate documentation of actions.
- Ability to establish and maintain an effective and professional working relationship with fellow employees.
- Utilize and monitor Florida Crime Information Center/National Crime Information Center (FCIC/NCIC) terminal.

NOTE: These are illustrative duties. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Work Schedule
This position requires Deputies to work the “Panama Schedule,” a 24/7 rotating 12-hour shift. The schedule follows a 2-2-3 pattern—two workdays, two days off, three workdays—rotating with the opposite pattern in a 14-day cycle. Shifts rotate between day and night every two months, ensuring consistent coverage and equal opportunities for all shifts assigned to the Communications Section.


- Minimum 18 years of age or older.
- Graduation from high school or possession of an accredited equivalency diploma.
- Ability to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Must be able to type 35 words per minute. The typing tests are given at the Career Source Gulf Coast. (625 Highway 231, Panama City, FL 32405) (You must provide a photo ID to take the test.)
- Be of good moral character.


Preferred Skills
-Knowledge of local geography, roads, and landmarks
-Ability to read and comprehend maps

Other Necessary Requirements
Qualified applicants will be required to pass a physical abilities test and a written examination to advance in the selection process.
Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment must then successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation, Computer Voice Stress Analyzer (CVSA), psychological evaluation, and drug screening.