911 Dispatcher (Full Time)

The City of Lancaster is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented, and professional 911 Dispatcher to join our Emergency Communications team. This position plays a critical role in public safety by answering emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering important information, and dispatching police, fire, emergency medical, and other emergency services.

The ideal candidate must be able to remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, make sound decisions, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Dispatchers serve as an essential connection between the community and emergency responders, helping ensure that assistance is provided as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Important Scheduling Requirement: Emergency Communications operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. This position requires working assigned shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Applicants must be willing and able to meet these scheduling requirements as a condition of employment.

Our Commitment to PRIDE At the City of Lancaster, we take PRIDE in serving our community through our core values:

• Productivity: Delivering efficient and effective services to our community.
• Resourcefulness: Using available resources responsibly and seeking opportunities for improvement.

• Integrity: Demonstrating honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct.

• Dedication: Remaining committed to providing exceptional public service.

• Excellence: Working together to deliver high-quality services and build community trust.

The City of Lancaster is committed to providing exceptional service while fostering a professional, respectful, and supportive work environment.

• Receives and responds to incoming emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, medical, and other emergency services.
• Obtains accurate information from callers, including the location, nature, and severity of emergencies, to determine the appropriate response.

• Enters and maintains accurate information in the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system.

• Operates two-way radios and other communication equipment to dispatch emergency personnel and relay important information.

• Provides pre-arrival emergency instructions to callers, including CPR and basic first aid guidance, as appropriate.

• Coordinates emergency responses by identifying and dispatching the closest and most appropriate available units.

• Maintains communication between emergency responders, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and other emergency service personnel.

• Monitors dispatched units, tracks their locations and assignments, and communicates updates as needed.

• Monitors alarm systems, security cameras, and other emergency communication systems.

• Enters, updates, retrieves, and maintains information using various computer systems and databases.

• Responds to routine inquiries and directs non-emergency calls to the appropriate department or agency.

• Tests communication equipment, alarm systems, and backup systems to ensure proper operation.

• Maintains professionalism, confidentiality, and composure when handling stressful or sensitive situations.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Must be available to work assigned shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required to support continuous emergency communications operations.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One (1) year of experience in clerical work, computer operations, high-volume telephone communications, public contact, or a related field.

• Thirty (30) semester hours of college credit may substitute for one (1) year of required experience.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be able to type a minimum of 35 words per minute.

• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.

• Ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

• Ability to remain calm, exercise sound judgment, and follow established procedures during emergency situations.

• Ability to operate computers, telephone systems, radios, and other communication equipment.

• Ability to work effectively with emergency personnel, coworkers, and members of the public.

• Must successfully complete an extensive pre-employment background investigation, including a drug screening, polygraph examination, psychological examination, and fingerprinting.

• Valid Class C Driver's License with a clean driving record is required.
• Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Operator's Certification is preferred but not required.

• CPR Certification is preferred.