Communications Specialist I
Job ID: 6454327302
Status: Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Shift: Day Job
Facility: Center for Emergency Medicine
Department: Communications Center
Location: 1400 Lebanon Church Road, West Mifflin, PA
Union Position: No
Salary Range: $ 17.88-28.17 USD
UPMC’s Center for Emergency Medicine is hiring Full-Time Communications Specialists to support STAT MedEvac’s new Communications Center (STATCOM), located in West Mifflin, PA.
We are recruiting Communications Specialist I (non-EMT) and Communications Specialist II (EMT) team members.
New Communications Specialists will start orientation with our UPMC Medical Command. In this role, the Communications Specialist will assist EMS with physician consults, assisting EMS with the transition of their patient from the prehospital setting to the hospital setting with notifications to the receiving hospital to be ready for the patient arrival. This includes using guidelines for the activation of trauma teams, stroke teams, Cath lab activations, and other specialty services. The Communications Specialist will dispatch our physician response vehicle and have MCI responsibilities.
Following competency validation, the Communications Specialists will start their next orientation as part of our critical care ground and helicopter dispatch. Responsibilities include obtaining the appropriate information for service requests and providing any additional assistance necessary to meet the system’s needs. The Communications Specialist functions as a part of the Communications Center and shares responsibility for working cooperatively with all team members. The Communications Specialist dispatches and communicates with all STAT MedEvac assets, maintains logs and records, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.
Purpose:
The Communications Specialist functions as a direct facilitator in processing and executing service requests for the STAT MedEvac system. Responsibilities include obtaining the appropriate information for service requests and providing any additional assistance necessary to meet the system’s needs. The Communications Specialist functions as a part of the Communications Center and shares responsibility for working cooperatively with all team members. The Communications Specialist dispatches and communicates with all STAT MedEvac assets, maintains logs and records, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives, of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.
Responsibilities:
- Demonstrates skills, competencies, and judgment necessary to respond to requests by phone, radio or other appropriate communications methods.
- Demonstrates competency in assigning requests for service to the most appropriate patient transport mode (i.e., helicopter, fixed wing or ambulance).
- Coordinate communications between transport teams, faculty physicians, referring and receiving hospitals.
- Ensures confidentiality of patient information at all times.
- Function as a resource for all new STATCom team members and actively participates in the development and training of new staff.
- Document and retrieve information / data on computer/network system including interventions, and other pertinent patient care information in a timely manner.
- Collects and promptly processes request information including demographics, medical necessity, and other necessary information.
- Participates constructively in the quality improvement program when requested.
- Demonstrate competency in resident dispatch response procedure and documentation.
- Demonstrate competency in successful use of attending physician.
- Adheres to uniform policy and maintains a professional and neat appearance while working and representing STAT MedEvac.
- Performs all assigned duties, including daily, weekly, monthly, or other duties assigned by the Transport Coordinator, Communications Manager, or Director of Communications including (but not limited to): (Participating in shift report from off going crew, Answering and responding to inquiries in a timely and efficient manner, Reviewing STATCom procedures/ STAT MedEvac Policies, Maintaining a clean workspace environment).
- Responds promptly and efficiently to requests for service (air and ground).
- Seek guidance from the Transport Coordinator as needed for unusual operational circumstances or guidance regarding policy decisions.
- Demonstrates proficiency of operation in all methods of communications including telephone, radio and e-mail.
- Documents unusual operational matters in the flight record and /or special report system as warranted.
- Participates in education and training sessions in a positive and constructive manner.
- Completes all official documentation in a timely manner such as payroll, expense reports, orientation forms, etc.
- Adheres to rules for scheduling, including schedule requests, minimum time, and availability.
- Contributes to safety through landing zone verification, following proper communication procedures and flight following.
- Utilizes appropriate safety channels to report safety concerns and uses tools available to enhance a safe work environment.
- Reflects a positive attitude to the customer in a high stress environment at all times, with a clear understanding of who the customer is.
- Demonstrates the ability to establish a rapport with customers; including the ability to create and sustain a positive relationship; regardless of circumstances or environment. Reports for work well rested and fit for duty.
- Adheres to the drug and alcohol policy at all times.
- Reports injuries and completes the appropriate documentation, no matter how minor, to a supervisor in a timely manner.
Qualifications:
- Positive interpersonal communications skills.
- Must have the ability to work productively and effectively within a complex environment, handle multiple/changing priorities, and operate a computer.
- Must be willing to work various shifts as assigned and be available for regular on-call shifts.
- Emergency operations center dispatch experience preferred but not required
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
CAREER GROWTH
Grow Your Nursing Career
Spanning over 20 clinical specialties and more than 50 unique nursing roles, every nurse at UPMC can achieve and advance their goals with the My Nursing Career Ladder. Whether you’re looking to progress to an elevated role or continue your education, UPMC equips nurses with the resources, feedback, leadership, and benefits to help you succeed and achieve your career goals. Here’s how a few nurses have grown their careers through the years at UPMC:
Clyde C.
As a Professional Staff Nurse, Expert at UPMC Muncy, Clyde is a great example of someone who has taken advantage of UPMC’s My Nursing Career Ladder to grow his career while remaining in the same hospital location.
Clyde’s Career Journey:
⦁ 2017: Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2021: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2022: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse II – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2022-present: Professional Staff Nurse, Expert – UPMC Muncy
Michelle B.
In her current role as a Professional Staff Nurse, Expert at UPMC Presbyterian, Michelle cares for patients with chronic and ongoing health issues as part of a Medical-Surgical unit. Michelle enjoys the daily change that Med-Surg nursing brings, and has found a career path that is interesting, meaningful, and full of opportunity.
Michelle’s Career Journey:
⦁ 2019: Staff Nurse – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2020: Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2021: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2021: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2022: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse II, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2023: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN, Expert – UPMC Presbyterian
Born in Syria, Jouli H. had a childhood dream of becoming a nurse. After moving to the United States and initially pursuing a different career, Jouli decided to return to school when she turned 30, returning to the hope and dream she had as a little girl. After attending UPMC Mercy School of Nursing, Jouli has continued her UPMC career journey, even becoming a mother along the way.
Jouli’s Career Journey:
⦁ 2020: Staff Nurse – UPMC Mercy
⦁ 2020: Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Mercy
⦁ 2021: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN – UPMC Mercy
⦁ 2022: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN, Casual – UPMC Mercy
⦁ 2023: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse, BSN, Casual – UPMC Mercy
INSURANCE SERVICES DIVISION OF UPMC
Advance Your Future
A career with UPMC means more than just caring for patients – when you’re a part of UPMC Insurance Services Division, it means caring for more than four million insurance members, too. UPMC Insurance Services Division offers a full range of health insurance products and services to our network across the country, providing peace of mind, better health, and financial security to our members, along with limitless career opportunities and a rewarding mission to those on our team.
About UPMC Insurance Services Division
As an integrated health care provider-insurer, UPMC goes beyond patient care to provide insurance products and services to millions of members. Our team partners with UPMC and community network providers to deliver knowledge and expertise that provides the highest quality care at the most affordable price, supporting our members through service, communication, and more.
Fast Facts:
- We provide insurance products and services to over more than four million members.
- UPMC’s Insurance Services Division offers a full range of health insurance options including UPMC Health Plan, Workpartners, UPMC for Life, UPMC for You, UPMC for Kids, UPMC Community HealthChoices, and Community Care Behavioral Health.
- UPMC Health Plan is among the nation’s fastest-growing health plans.
Opportunities on Our Team
We’ve got a job that’s just right for you! UPMC Insurance Services Division team offers a vast array of career paths and opportunities, from career areas like customer service, data analytics, and information technology and even patient care roles like social work, nursing, and care management.
Whether in non-clinical or patient-facing roles, our team impacts patients and members by providing quality experiences before, during, and after their care, building relationships in a unique and meaningful way.
Recognized for Excellence
Be a part of an award-winning team! UPMC Insurance Services Division has been recognized for outstanding care and service with awards that include:
- U.S. News and World Report named UPMC for Life a “Best Insurance Company for Medicare Advantage” in Pennsylvania for 2024.
- The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has named UPMC Health Plan an “Equality 100 Leader in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion” for 2023–2024.
- UPMC for Life ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction* among Medicare Advantage Plans in Pennsylvania by J.D. Power.
- The Ethisphere Institute named UPMC as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the sixth consecutive year.
*Results are based on award-eligible plans in Pennsylvania by J.D. Power. For J.D. Power 2024 award information visit, jdpower.com/awards.
Jump-Start Your Career
Looking to launch a career with longevity and opportunity? With countless entry-level opportunities for recent graduates, along with tools and resources that empower you as you learn and grow, UPMC Insurance Services Division is the perfect place to get a career started.
Interested in taking your career to new heights? Our career paths and advancement opportunities will provide you with chances to achieve your goals at every step.
BENEFITS AND LIFE AT UPMC
We know that you have many options when choosing where to build your career. So why choose UPMC? We can think of a few reasons.
Work-Life Balance
Finding the ideal balance to manage the important elements in your life.
Development & Opportunities
Enhancing your career through continued learning opportunities and/or advancement.
Compensation
Receiving competitive pay for the work that you do – base pay, merit, and premium pay.
Performance & Recognition
Rewarding performance that supports the goals and mission of UPMC.
Benefits
Providing assistance and security to meet the current and future needs of you and your family.
Work-Life Balance
Finding the ideal balance to manage the important elements in your life.
Development & Opportunities
Enhancing your career through continued learning opportunities and/or advancement.
Compensation
Receiving competitive pay for the work that you do – base pay, merit, and premium pay.
Performance & Recognition
Rewarding performance that supports the goals and mission of UPMC.
Benefits
Providing assistance and security to meet the current and future needs of you and your family.
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing benefits that meet your needs and support your well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing benefits that meet your needs and support your well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing our employees with benefits that meet their needs and support their well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Tuition assistance for dependents
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
- Flexible work arrangements
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Tuition assistance for dependents
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
- Flexible work arrangements
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Flexibility to choose the shifts and work arrangements work best for your lifestyle
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
A Culture That Cares
At UPMC, you can find a home among people who share your passions and care about who you are.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for engagement & inclusion
- Programs for veteran engagement
A Culture That Cares
At UPMC, you can find a home among people who share your passions and care about who you are.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for engagement & inclusion
- Programs for veteran engagement
A Culture That Cares
UPMC is a place where you can find a home, no matter your gender, race, sexual orientation, age, or culture, and where you can meet people who share your passions and care about you.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for Engagement & Inclusion
- Programs for Veteran Engagement
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning via LinkedIn Learning
- Accelerated career pathways for growth
- Robust instructor-led education and learning pathways
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning via LinkedIn Learning
- Accelerated career pathways for growth
- Robust instructor-led education and learning pathways
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Unlimited educational possibilities, including no-cost BSN and MSN programs
- Robust career ladders for every nurse – no matter your specialty, location, or career stage
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning opportunities
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- Dozens of career ladders to climb
- International locations
- State-of-the-art technology
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- Dozens of career ladders to climb
- International locations
- State-of-the-art technology
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- International locations
- State of-the-art technology
Read More about Nursing at UPMC
Through tuition assistance and mentorship by coworkers, Keshon launched his nursing career in his hometown of McKeesport.
Since growing up in Syria, Jouli H.’s story has been one that inspires all of us to remember how empowerment can truly change someone’s life.
We asked our nurses to shed some light on what Med-Surg nursing means to them. Get to know Med-Surg nursing – in four words – from UPMC nurses!
Read More about UPMC Insurance Services Division
In UPMC Insurance Services Division, analysts work to understand, innovate, and improve the products and services UPMC provides.
Eddie S. shares how his passion for football, fishing, and friendship shapes his life and his career with UPMC Health Plan.
We asked our nurses to shed some light on what Med-Surg nursing means to them. Get to know Med-Surg nursing – in four words – from UPMC nurses!