Become an Emergency Communications Specialist (9-1-1 Call-taker/Dispatcher)

If you're looking to be a first responder with a challenging and rewarding career helping others in times of emergency, consider becoming an Emergency Communications Specialist with the AECC. Here’s how you can get started:

◼ Apply

Submit your application online. Applications are accepted through careers.amarillo.gov, search  Emergency Communications Specialist and click Apply. (Note: positions are posted as available). Make sure you provide a valid email address. Important information will be sent to that email once your application is reviewed. 

◼ Take the Criticall Exam

The Criticall Exam is sent to each applicant via email and must be passed before moving forward in the application process. Once you complete the exam, AECC Administration will contact you with the results and the next steps. If you don’t pass the exam, you are disqualified from moving forward in the application process of the most upcoming academy. You will be eligible to re-apply and re-test for the following AECC Training Academy.

◼ Background Intake | TCOLE Personal History Statement

Applicants eligible to move forward once the Criticall exam has been passed are required to complete a TCOLE Personal History Statement Packet that is sent to the applicant via email.

Applicants will be contacted to schedule an appointment where all required documents are reviewed with the TCOLE Packet. 

◼ Background Investigation 

The background investigation includes a truth analysis and fingerprinting to ensure all applicants meet the necessary standards and qualifications.

◼ Panel Interview

AECC will schedule a Panel Interview with the applicant to asses suitability for the role.

◼ Psych Evaluation

Applicants undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure fit for the job.

Once you've successfully completed these steps, you'll enter the AECC Training Academy, where you'll receive all the necessary training to become a certified Emergency Communications Specialist.

Amarillo Emergency Communications Center Training Academy

The AECC Training Academy provides all the necessary training, certifications, and state licensing for each trainee.

Classroom Training (7 weeks)

• AECC Policy and Procedures
• Customer Service
• CPR
• Missing Kids
• Geography
• TCIC/NCIC
• Call Event Type Scenarios
• Dispatch Tools
• Court Preparation
• International Academies of Emergency Dispatch Protocol (Police, Fire, and Medical) – Certifications received upon completion
• TEEX Course – State of Texas licensing course required before becoming TCOLE licensed – State license received upon passing state exam

Hands-on Call-Take Training (4-6 weeks)

• You’ll be placed with a trainer to apply your certifications, licensing, and call-take/dispatch skills to real calls.
• There are three phases of hands-on training that you must complete to work independently.

Want to learn more?

Contact AECC Training Coordinator at 806-378-9035 to set up a time for observation or a tour of the Amarillo Emergency Communications Center.

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