Public Safety Communications Dispatcher - Department of Emergency Management

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Under general supervision, receives incoming telephone calls for 911 police, fire, and medical emergency and non-emergency services, and dispatches public safety personnel units and equipment to respond to calls for service utilizing a two-way radio system, Computer Aided Dispatch system, multiple display terminal and other related equipment; evaluates, prioritizes, documents and directs calls to appropriate resources; maintains two-way communications with police, fire and emergency medical units;

exercises considerable judgment in transmitting pertinent information to field units and in dispatching emergency personnel and equipment in accordance with established regulations and procedures; and performs other related duties as required.

This is the entry level in the emergency communications dispatcher classification series responsible for learning and applying methods, techniques and practices in police, fire and emergency medical dispatching. Initially, incumbents work in a training capacity to learn all aspects of police, fire and emergency medical dispatching. As experience accrues, the incumbent performs with increasing independence. This class is distinguished from the 8239 Public Safety Communications Supervisor in that the latter exercises full supervisory responsibilities over staff and the work of the unit.

Knowledge of:
Principles, practices and procedures of emergency communications for police, fire and emergency medical dispatching; call evaluation techniques; general geography of city roads, streets, highways, public facilities and buildings; federal and state regulations governing the operation of communications systems for transmitting emergency information and dispatching personnel and equipment; proper office procedures and record-keeping techniques.

Ability and Skill to:
Operate a public safety computer system and two-way radio; interpret federal communications and departmental regulations, policies and procedures; speak and write in English, spell correctly and communicate in a clear, concise and understandable manner; memorize names and locations; analyze situations accurately, think and act quickly in emergency situations and exercise sound judgment; work under considerable stress caused by a volume of messages or emergency conditions involving the protection of life and property;

work under emergency or austere conditions following a disaster; maintain an effective working relationship with supervisors and co-workers; exercise sensitivity with various members of the public; work weekends, nights, holidays, irregular hours and overtime; and ability to operate a computer terminal at 40 words per minute (net).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

These minimum qualifications establish the education, training, experience, special skills and/or license(s) which are required for employment in the classification. Please note, additional qualifications (i.e., special conditions) may apply to a particular position and will be stated on the exam/job announcement.

Education:

Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent (GED or High School Proficiency Examination).

Experience:

Two (2) years of experience in a public contact position providing information and/or a service, or in a position…