Communications Specialist I (OMH Public Safety Columbia)

Job Responsibilities Are you passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives? Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking a Communications Specialist I who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and achieve long‑term wellness. If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply. Both positions are located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) – Office of Mental Health (OMH), Public Safety Division, 7901 Farrow Road, Columbia SC 29203. Responsibilities for the Communications Specialist I Enforces all departmental and federal communications rules and regulations. Handles incoming/outgoing calls, updates policy procedure manuals, and works closely with other agencies. Maintains logs, files, and records. Operates NCIC terminal and other related equipment and makes daily reports. Answers telephones and dispatches officers as needed. Receives and relays information for other agencies. Ensures compliance with all applicable Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (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 the computer, maintains the daily activity log for officers on duty, tracks vehicle usage, and manages equipment checked out and the service breakdown log. Participates in all practice disaster/emergency drills, ensures all equipment operates properly, and assists with arrangements for repairs when needed. Monitors fire alarms, burglar alarms, and dispatches officers/fire trucks as needed. Assists OMH Public Safety Services in maintaining contact with local, county, and state law‑enforcement agencies as needed and provides information to officers on duty. Minimum and Additional Requirements A high school diploma. Must be able to complete the SLED/CJICS NCIC Certification course within six (6) months of hire. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus. Post‑Hire, Employee Must Have Complete the SLED/CJICS NCIC Certification course within six (6) months of hire. Ability to speak clearly and receive/relay information accurately. Good telephone manners, reading, writing, and spelling skills. Ability to adjust to fluctuating situations and disturbances while enforcing rules and regulations. Ability to work fluctuating hours. Have considerable knowledge of state laws, rules, and regulations of the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Benefits for Full‑Time Employees Health, dental, vision, long‑term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year. 15 days sick leave per year. 13 paid holidays. Paid parental leave. S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available. Retirement benefit choices: State Retirement Plan (SCRS). State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP). Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay. #J-18808-Ljbffr