AIRPORT COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

POSITION OVERVIEW

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Division/ Section: Security and Emergency Preparedness / Airport Communications Center
Workdays & Hours: Shift work, to include shift rotation, weekends and holidays ***subject to change***

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The role of the Airport Communications Operator (ACO), is to deliver a high level of customer service to the airport stakeholders, its customers and the traveling passengers of all three (3) locations of the City of Houston Airport System (Bush Intercontinental, Hobby, and Ellington Field). Is expected to use the following methods of communication skills; the airport dispatch system, handheld two-way radio, multiply video screens, emergency notification system, and answering TTY/TDD requests. Responsible for broadcasting information to appropriate airport tenant personnel concerning the following alerts; aircraft/airport emergencies, bomb threats, hazardous conditions and major natural disasters. The ability to take a high volume of inbound/outbound calls and the skills set to contact the appropriate personnel that can execute the following in a timely manner; services repair requests needed to buildings, airfield incidents, malfunctioning access card readers, and security software programs. Must be proficient in operating the computer aided dispatch (CAD) software system to perform the following communication functions; dispatching all field management personnel, documenting and maintaining a written log of incidents and emergencies, dispatching the necessary personnel needed to complete all service related incidents; monitoring all activity in airport buildings and airport grounds using multiply CCTV cameras and HAS access control system prohibiting unauthorized access to Aircraft Operating Areas (AOA), sterile, and all other security areas. May be responsible for reviewing and updating domestic and international airline schedules into information display system, aircraft gate/baggage carousel assignments and schedule changes. Receives and directs public distress calls for lost and locked vehicles, vehicle tows, non-working elevators, maintenance calls and any airport injuries. Maintains accurate records for work requested, work in progress and work completed. Communicates tactfully and effectively with airport stakeholders, public, airport tenants, contractors, and supervisors and all other airport related personnel. The ACO must be open and flexible to work any shift and any other duties assigned. "Must be able to pass a criminal background check, obtain and maintain federally mandated security clearances where required".

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position is physically comfortable most of the time with occasional periods of stooping, bending and/or light lifting of materials of up to ten (10) pounds. There are occasional minor discomforts from exposure to less-than-optimal temperature and air conditions. The position may involve dealing with modestly unpleasant situations, as with occasional exposure to office chemicals and/or extensive use of a video display terminal. Requires the ability to make coordinated gross motor movements in response to changing external stimuli within moderately demanding tolerances; or the ability to make coordinated eye/hand movements on a patterned response space within low tolerance demands with no real speed requirements.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a high school diploma or a GED.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
One (1) year of experience in a major airport terminal handling a variety of communication activities or in a related major facility handling a variety of communication equipment is required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Must have a valid driver’s license and comply with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).

PREFERENCES

Highly proficient in MS Office Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Outlook and Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software system highly desirable.

***Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6***.

GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will have involved application review and/or interview. Department may administer skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION – YES
This position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Pay Grade – 13

SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov. To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm. For application status inquiries please contact 281-233-1852.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process. All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information. If you need special services or accommodations call TTY 7-1-1.

EEO Equal Employment Opportunity – The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.