Inside Scoop: Typing and CritiCall for Communications
Candidates who apply for Cadet-Communications positions at ATCEMS must undergo two additional important testing elements that Field applicants do not take. Communications applicants must complete CritiCall and a typing test.
The typing test is fairly straightforward: we require individuals to be able to demonstrate that they can type at least 35 words per minute (wpm) with 80% accuracy. The typing test, also called keyboarding, is a module that is integrated within CritiCall. Do you know how fast and how accurately you can type? There are many free typing tests online for you to see your current skill level and practice prior to the hiring process.
So what is CritiCall? It is a computer-based multi-tasking assessment tool used to ensure that applicants possess the necessary skills to perform the duties for a 911 call-taker/dispatcher role. Each test can be different from agency to agency based on the required skills necessary to be successful in that job. There are dozens of different test modules that can be programmed into CritiCall but you will not be required to take all modules.
ATCEMS uses the following 10 test modules: Decision Making, Keyboarding, Data Entry Multi-Tasking (MT), Data Entry MT (Audio), Call Summarization 2 MT, Memory Recall-Numeric (Audio), Map Reading, Spelling, and Sentence Clarity. You can learn more about the modules and detailed descriptions of each one on the CritiCall website under Test Descriptions.
We encourage applicants to practice typing and multi-tasking skills prior to your test date. You can find a basic data entry test designed to hone your multi-taking abilities. It allows you to monitor your keystrokes per hour and will imitate an actual multi-tasking exam. Another helpful resource is the CritiCall blog with F.A.Q. and further helpful links. We hope these links and information will help you find success in our Cadet-Communications hiring process!
Questions? Contact our Recruiting team at EMSRecruiting@austintexas.gov or give us a call at 512–974–1098. You can find dates for the hiring process elements here.
Follow us on all social media channels, and don’t forget to fill out a connect profile!
This publication features ATCEMS work culture and the lives of our medics. *Readings from other publications posted to Medium do not necessarily reflect the views or position of Austin-Travis County EMS, the City of Austin, or Travis County*
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974–3210 or TTY (512) 974–2445.
The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual’s AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk. ADA Office: (512) 974–3256 TDD (512) 974–3303.
