Emergency Communications Specialist I Basic (911 Dispatcher)

To receive and process emergency and non-emergency calls for service for the Santa Fe Regional Emergency Communications Center (RECC). Accurately document incidents/reports from citizens for emergent and non-emergent calls.

• Works under the direct supervision of the RECC Training Coordinator in conjunction with the Emergency Communications Specialist Team Leader, Center Manager and close supervision of the Director of RECC. 
• Processes emergent and non-emergent phone calls in the emergency dispatch center, answers incoming calls and ascertains nature of call, gathers all necessary information to be relayed by the radio operator to field responders.
• Incumbents must be willing to work any day of the week (including weekends) and any hours of the day or night. 
• Maintains logs of telephone communications, location of personnel and equipment. In the event of an emergency situation, maintains on-going contact with the responding personnel and keeps them informed of all incoming pertinent information by telephone. Keeps track of various information such as traffic lights out, streets closed, keeps emergency personnel and general public informed.
• Inputs data to standard office and department forms – both manual and electronic.
• Maintains dispatch documents and records.
• Assist other Emergency Communications Specialists and Supervisors on various projects as requested.
• Attend seminars, workshops, and training classes.
• Maintain cleanliness of RECC dispatch consoles and equipment.

Knowledge/Skills:
Ability to learn, understand and utilize skills/training taught and provided by the department as listed below:

• Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.
• Working knowledge or ability to learn Santa Fe County street locations and geography of the areas served. 
• Ability to operate various word-processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software programs, as well as NCIC, ProQA, Vesta, Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), E-911 and Public Safety Dispatch systems.
• Ability to accurately type a minimum of 35 wpm.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, the general public, etc., sufficient to exchange or convey information and to provide work directions. 
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to effectively deal with the public. Good diplomacy and good decision-making skills.
• Ability to perform work accurately and to follow oral and written instructions and guidelines. 
• Ability to perform tactfully and proficiently under stress and to maintain a clear and understandable telephone and radio voice.
• Attend seminars, workshops, and training classes.

• High school diploma or GED 
• Must obtain and maintain a valid New Mexico DPS Basic Dispatch Certificate within twelve (12) months of hire. (Initial Training and continuing education is provided by the department through NMDPS)
• Must possess CPR certification or obtain within six (6) months of hire. 
• All employees in this job classification shall be required to sign a “Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure” Agreement.

Working Conditions:
Work is primarily in an office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; handle or feel; reach with hands or arms; and talk or hear. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. Clarity of vision at short distance required. Evening, holiday, and weekend work is required.  Extended hours, irregular shifts, and occasional overnight travel are required.   May be on call for emergencies and staffing shortages. Exposure to distressed individuals. 
 
Conditions of Employment:
Selected candidate must submit to and pass a County paid pre-employment physical and drug/alcohol screening. Additionally, selected candidate must submit to and pass a county paid criminal background screening. Selected candidate must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Class D Driver’s License as incumbent shall be appointed to drive a County vehicle during the performance of his/her duties. Must be free of any convictions or any other crime involving moral turpitude. Prior criminal convictions may or may not disqualify applicants.  Candidate must obtain and/or maintain all certifications required.