Communications (Dispatch) Officer

JOB SUMMARY

 

The Communications Officer/Dispatcher is responsible for receiving calls from the public and other agencies requesting emergency assistance, and dispatching the appropriate police, fire, ambulance and other emergency units.

 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES

 

• Receive emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical and other emergency services. 
• Determine the nature and location of emergency; determine priorities, and dispatch police, fire, ambulance or other emergency units as necessary in accordance with established procedures.  
• Maintain status and location of police and fire units. 
• Monitor emergency alarms. 
• Answer non-emergency calls for assistance. 
• Enter, update, and retrieve information from a variety of computer systems. 
• Receive and promptly respond to requests for information regarding vehicular registration, driving records, and warrant information. 
• Operate a variety of communications equipment, including but not limited to radio consoles, multi-line telephones and computer aided dispatch system.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

 

Knowledge of: 

 

• Basic knowledge of computer-aided dispatch systems.
• Working knowledge of the operation and utilization of computerized databases.
• Basic understanding of the operation of commonly used Public Safety Dispatch related radio and telecommunications equipment. 

 

Ability to:

 

• Verbally communicate quickly and effectively with a clear and understandable voice. 
• Effectively deal with people in emotional, high stress situations. 
• Think clearly and act rationally in emergency situations.
• Effectively handle several tasks simultaneously, most of which involve a high degree of stress.
• Learn radio procedures, computer aided dispatch systems, and teletype guidelines
• Remain seated for long periods of time.
• Push, pull, drag, carry and lift a minimum of 50lbs without assistance.
• Work various shifts including alternating shifts, days, evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays as required.

 

Experience and Education: Any combination equivalent to the level of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities will qualify. 

 

Experience: 

 

Education: 

 

 

Licenses/Certifications:

 

 

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS 

 

Incumbents in this position are required to work various shifts as assigned. Due to the unpredictable and critical nature of the required duties for this position, incumbents assigned to this position must be willing and available to work additional hours beyond their assigned shifts, sometimes with little or no notice. Incumbents in this position must be able to remain seated and operate a visual display terminal for extended periods of time.

Due to the requirement for this position to have access to sensitive information, a criminal history background and fingerprint check will be conducted through the FBI. Candidates must not have a felony or major misdemeanor conviction.