COMMUNICATIONS SERGEANT

COMMUNICATIONS SERGEANT

Washington County Sheriff's Office
West Bend, Wisconsin

Washington County is seeking a qualified professional to serve as a Communications Sergeant within the Sheriff's Department. The Sheriff's Office operates a 24-hour Emergency 911 Communications Center that answers emergency calls and dispatches services for:
*The Sheriff's Office
*Seven Police Departments
*Fourteen Fire and Rescue Agencies

Under the direction of the Communications Lieutenant, the Communications Sergeant oversees the daily operations of the Emergency 911 Communications Center.

About Washington County
Washington County is recognized for delivering high-quality public services to the residents of our community. Our team members embrace innovation, collaboration, and creative problem-solving to meet goals and exceed expectations.

Our Mission
We create an environment for residents and businesses to enjoy our authentic quality of life through a well-governed and administered county dedicated to:
*Safe and secure communities
*Economic growth and vitality
*Effective mobility and reliable infrastructure
*Access to basic needs

Our Vision
To cultivate our rich heritage, vibrant economy, and attractive communities through the distinct values that define us.

Our Values
Respect * Optimism * Integrity * Innovation * Compassion * Collaboration

Compensation
Merit-Based Salary (reviewed annually):
*Starting Annual Salary: $84,198.40
*Hourly Rate: $40.58/hour
Benefits
Washington County offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
*Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
*Short- and Long-Term Disability
*Medical & Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
*Wisconsin Retirement System
*Wisconsin Deferred Compensation (IRS 457)
*Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
*Tuition Reimbursement
*Fitness Center Reimbursement
*Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance

Position Summary
Under the direction of the Communications Lieutenant, the Communications Sergeant is responsible for supervising the Emergency 911 Communications Center and overseeing Communications Officers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
*Maintaining ongoing communication with the Communications Lieutenant regarding center activities, planning, and issues.
*Serving as liaison between Communications Officers, divisional supervisors, and external law enforcement, fire, and EMS supervisors.
*Collaborating with other Communications Center supervisors to ensure consistent training, evaluation, and support.
*Coordinating with the Information Services Technician and Radio System Administrator regarding CAD systems, hardware, software, radio, and phone systems.
*Assisting with the integration of new technologies.
*Acting as liaison with municipalities, counties, and public safety agencies on communications-related matters.
*Managing scheduling, overtime approval, and leave requests.
*Investigating and documenting personnel matters and making disciplinary recommendations.
*Conducting performance evaluations and quality assurance reviews.
*Assisting with recruitment, testing, interviews, and hiring recommendations.
*Supervising the Communication Officer Training Program and identifying training needs.
*Reviewing and recommending updates of Communications Center policies and procedures.
*Reviewing and documenting telephone and radio recordings.
*Maintaining operational logs and records.
*Assisting in administration of the CAD system and coordinating with software vendors.
*Maintaining required certifications.
*Assisting in dispatch operations during emergencies or high-volume periods (on or off duty).
*Responding to emergency events as required.

Supervision & Decision-Making

Work Direction Received:
Reports directly to the Communications Lieutenant and follows the departmental chain of command.

Supervision Exercised:
Supervises Communications Officers and makes preliminary recommendations on hiring, discipline, and termination.

Decision-Making:
Independently handles daily operations and unusual situations as they arise.

Qualifications
Candidates must meet one of the following:

Option 1:
*60 college credits (criminal justice, police science, public safety communication, business administration, or related field), AND
*Three years full-time experience as a Communications Officer, AND
*Successful completion of probation with the Washington County Sheriff's Office
Option 2:
*30 college credits in a qualifying field, AND
*Three years full-time experience as a Communications Officer with the Washington County Sheriff's Office, AND
*Successful completion of probation

Option 3:
*High School Diploma or GED, AND
*Five years full-time experience as a Communications Officer with the Washington County Sheriff's Office, AND
*Successful completion of probation

Preferred Qualifications & Professional Development
While not required, college coursework or a degree in criminal justice, police science, public safety communications, business administration, or a closely related field is strongly preferred and demonstrates a commitment to professional development and leadership readiness.

Additional supervisory or leadership training is also preferred.

Washington County values continued education and professional growth. Educational attainment and leadership development may be considered as part of overall qualifications and future advancement opportunities within the organization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
*Knowledge of Sheriff's Office and Communications Center policies and regulations
*Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, and ProPhoenix
*Knowledge of public safety radio systems
*Understanding of supervisory principles and practices
*Ability to supervise and coordinate emergency dispatch activities
*Strong written and verbal communication skills
*Ability to interact effectively with law enforcement, fire, EMS, county departments, and the public
*Ability to meet physical, sensory, and cognitive job demands

Washington County is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.

Position : 200179

Posting Start : 03/09/2026

Posting End : 03/23/2026

SALARY RANGE: $40.58-$53.94