Emergency Communications Specialist - Multiple Anticipated Vacancies - Houlton

Job Summary

Lights flashing… Sirens blaring… Emergency vehicles must be dispatched before they can help anyone… Enter the importance of Emergency Communication Specialists; they play this crucial role, acting as the liaison between law enforcement and people in need of help. They must gather essential information from callers before sharing it, accurately and promptly, with first responders. The Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Emergency Communications is hiring for Emergency Communication Specialists. The position is located in Houlton, ME.
Job Class Code:

8600

Grade:

19 (Professional/Technical)

Salary:

$26.88 – $35.74 per hour (includes 30% stipend)
Opening Date:

June 15, 2026

Closing Date:

June 30, 2026
Responsibilities

Act as the first point of contact for people in need of help for emergency and non‑emergency situations.
Coordinate effective responses to calls for service.
Develop incident resolution strategies.
Search databases for pertinent information (criminal history, stolen property, motor vehicle data, etc.) to assist personnel.
Document calls in the computer‑aided dispatch system.
Operate communications equipment, including computer‑aided dispatch and radio systems.
Shift Requirements & Training

Shift coverage is 24/7 on a rotating schedule, including weekends, holidays, evenings, and night shifts.
During the training period, selected applicants must be available to work all three shifts (days, evenings, overnights).
After the probationary period, shift assignments are determined by seniority in compliance with collective bargaining agreements.
Within six months of hire, employees receive training to attain certifications in:
Maine State Terminal Operator
Emergency Telecommunicator
Emergency Fire Dispatcher
Emergency Medical Dispatcher (includes CPR training)
NexGen 9‑1‑1
Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or equivalent.
Ability to pass a fingerprint‑based background check and a polygraph before employment.
Excellent decision‑making skills under stressful and time‑sensitive conditions.
Ability to handle multiple enhanced 911 calls simultaneously.
Detect discrepancies within agency databases and report inconsistencies.
Perform duties with minimal supervision.
Prioritize incidents.
Benefits

13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually (vacation leave accrual increases with years of service).
Health insurance coverage: The State pays 85‑95% of employee‑only premiums.
Dental insurance: 100% of employee‑only premiums.
Retirement Plan: State contributes 14.71% of the employee's pay towards Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.91% for Confidential employees.
Access to wellness benefits through the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.
Additional benefits may vary according to specific collective bargaining agreements.
Possible advancement routes include Q/A positions, Supervisor, Operations Managers, CAD Administrators, or Director.
Contact

Questions about this position should be directed to:
Jessica Milliken
email: Jessica.E.Milliken@maine.gov
Equal Opportunity Employment

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. The process ensures an inclusive environment for all applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. Reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

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