SEECOM seeks to add staff

HUNTLEY — When approximately 200,000 McHenry County residents need 9-1-1 emergency services, their calls are handled by Southeast Emergency Communications (SEECOM), based in Crystal Lake.

The EmergencyCommunications Center (ECC) is looking to add to its Public Safety Telecommunications staff.

“We’re looking for someone over 18-years old, who will be able to handle a high-stress situations, independently as well as a team. We provide a 16-week course which gives a new hire all the skills they will need,” SEECOM Executive Director Jason Kern said.

One PST operator position is currently open on the 24-member staff. Applications are also sought for potential future openings.

“I think the calls for service level has gone back to the pre COVID-19 levels,” Kern, the SEECOM director for eight years, said.

This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Algonquin Police Department gave a statement of praise for the efforts of all telecommunicators. “Algonquin Police Department would like to thank all of our telecommunicators for their service, especially our brothers and sisters over at Southeast Emergency Communications. Thank you for all you do – heard but rarely seen; heroes behind the scenes and the calm voices in the dark.”

The SEECOM Center at Crystal Lake’s Aaron Shipley Municipal Complex handles emergency calls for 13 agencies. In the Huntley area, they are Huntley Fire Protection District, Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Fire Protection District and Crystal Lake Fire and Rescue. Law enforcement agencies are Huntley, Crystal Lake, Cary, Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Oakwood Hills and Crystal Lake Park District.

Kern said that SEECOM is undergoing a renovation of its facility. “We’re expanding our positions for the PSTS from nine to 12,” he said.

Those interested in applying to SEECOM may forward a resume to [email protected] or call SEECOM at 815-356-2685.