Communication Specialist Dispatcher/Entry Level

Salary: $35,070.00 Annually

Location : Darlington County, SC

Job Type: FTE - Full-Time

Job Number: 180282

Agency: Forestry Commission

Division: Dispatch Pee Dee

Opening Date: 09/15/2025

Closing Date: 9/29/2025 11:59 PM Eastern

Residency Requirement: No

Class Code:: BA30

Position Number:: 60012269, 61128494

Normal Work Schedule:: Other

Pay Grade: GEN04

Hiring Range - Min.: $35,070.00

Hiring Range - Max.: $35,070.00

Opening Date: 09/15/2025

EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer

Agency Specific Application Procedures:: When applying for this position, the electronic state application must be completed to include the Education and Work Experience sections and the Supplemental Questions. This includes a detailed description of each work-related position and, if applicable, military service (indicate rank) and job-related volunteer work that you feel qualifies you for the position. Failure to provide detailed and complete work-related information may result in your application being rejected. A resume will not be accepted or reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. A criminal records check will be conducted prior to an offer of employment. SCFC requires individuals to complete an online application to apply for this position. Interested individuals can access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring. DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.

Normal Work Schedule (Other):: The work schedule is 39 hours per week during night shift, 4 days of 9.75 hours per day (8:30pm-7:15am) on a rotating work schedule to include holidays and weekends.

Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities

Under direct supervision, receives reports of smoke management, wildfires, law enforcement requests, storm damage and other emergency and non-emergency incidents. Appropriately dispatch fire suppression personnel through the use of a computer aided dispatch system, two-way radio, and telephone. Assumes Coastal and Piedmont Region dispatch/call taking responsibilities.

Receives reports of fires, law enforcement needs, storm damage and other emergency incidents from the public, local fire departments, 911 systems, forestry pilots and other safety officers. Processes, records and disseminates this information. Operates computer aided dispatch system to dispatch personnel to fire locations. Maintains accurate records of all dispatched personnel and their locations. Uses computer aided dispatch system to take smoke management information to ensure burner is within smoke management guidelines. Processes and records this information.

Provides two-way radio contact between firefighters, field personnel, and the Dispatch Center.

Performs dispatch and other related duties on daily task lists as assigned in support of the agency's mission and initiatives.

Performs other duties in support of the Forestry Commission's mission and strategic plan.

**Two positions available. **

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A high school diploma and entry-level work experience with voice communication systems or switchboard exchange operations.

Must be able to type 35 WPM and have basic computer proficiency.

Completion of Introduction to the National Incident Management System (IS-700) within first year of employment.

Criminal background check and drug test are required.

Additional Comments

The work schedule is 39 hours per week during night shift, 4 days of 9.75 hours per day (8:30pm-7:15am) on a rotating work schedule to include holidays and weekends.

Position is located in an office environment. Must be able to remain stationary for long periods of time while answering calls. Occasionally moves about the work area to access file cabinets, office machinery, and other job-related equipment. Must be able to lift 25 lbs.

Knowledge of operating a computer-aided dispatch system, two-way radio and telephone communication equipment. Knowledge of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules and regulations concerning two-way radio operations and Smoke Management guidelines.

Active listener with strong customer service and communication skills. Ability to speak clearly and concisely; must be able to interpret written instructions, policies, and materials used in performing dispatching duties; must react quickly, accurately, and calmly in a stressful environment.

Position is designated as safety-sensitive and essential. Position is subject to random, post incident/accident, reasonable suspicion and rehabilitation monitoring and drug and alcohol testing consistent with SCFC Drug-Free Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing.

Benefits for State Employees

The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.

Insurance Benefits

Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.

Retirement Benefits

State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.

Workplace Benefits

State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.

Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.

01

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted or reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. I have read and acknowledge the above statement.

Yes

No

02

If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position may be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record. I have read and understand this statement.

Yes

No

03

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring. I have read and understand this statement.

Yes

No

04

Are you willing to accept a starting salary of $35,070?

Yes

No

05

Do you have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and have entry-level work experience with voice communication systems or switchboard exchange operations?

Yes

No

Required Question