Dispatcher

1. Using a computer-aided dispatch system, receives emergency calls for service from the public requesting law enforcement, emergency medical or other service; determines nature and location of emergency, determine priorities, and dispatches necessary emergency units in accordance with established procedures.
2. Transmits and receives messages to and from user agencies via public safety radios, 9-1-1 emergency telephone lines, data terminals and other communications equipment.
3. Maintains contact with all units on duty; maintains status and location of officers.
4. Inquires, enters, updates, interprets, verifies, receives and disseminates information from national, state, and local law enforcement computer networks as requested by user agencies for missing persons, stolen property, warrants and restraining orders; monitor several complex public safety radio frequencies.
5. Provides Basic life support instructions following the National Academy of Emergency Medical Dispatch (NAED), including CPR instructions to citizens until emergency responders arrive on scene.
6. Transmits, receives and monitors multiple radio talk groups to include emergency services, schools, Public Works Department and other law enforcement agencies.
7. Use proper interview questions to obtain information for call entry.
8. Operates the CAD, Siren, Records Management and in-house computer systems.
9. Provide scene safety instructions to callers who are involved in high-risk situations until first responders or law enforcement officers are on scene.
10. Answers non-emergency calls for assistance.
11. Creates and maintain accurate records providing documentation for all events and occurrences within the Communications Center.
12. Monitors weather and other natural disaster conditions and notifies staff and public of hazards.
13. Interprets messages, analyze distances and time periods and communicate the same to others.
14. Provides needed backup to other staff members during periods of absence and during peak workloads as directed.
15. Assumes one or more on-going, specialized assignments such as training officer, terminal security coordination for State/Federal criminal databases, receives cross-training to provide back-up to administrative assistants and office specialists when needed.
16. Attends meetings and events to promote positive public relations.

1. Other duties as assigned.

• Interprets and applies Federal, State, municipal, and Department rules, regulations, and policies.
  • Attends work regularly and is punctual.
  • Behaves professionally and presents an appropriate standard of grooming, hygiene, and dress that align with health and safety standards.
  • Conducts self in such a way as to reflect positively on the County.
  • Fosters positive working relationships and accepts new responsibilities.
  • Learns and understands the safe practices for the job being performed and complies with the safe work practices and personal protective requirements for the job.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of modern telecommunication, communication radio and computer equipment.
• Knowledge of County policies, procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of local government organization and its departmental operating requirements.
• Knowledge of laws and policies regarding open records/public information vs. confidential information.
• Knowledge of terminal security rules and regulations for granting access to National and State criminal databases.
• Knowledge of the County geographical layout, landmarks, road locations and municipality locations within the County.
• Knowledge of use of GPS and GIS data relating to county landmarks, roads, and businesses.
• Ability to maintain truthful and accurate written and verbal communication.
• Ability to think and act quickly, accurately and calmly in emergency/stressful situations and handle traumatic details/information related to service calls.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate effectively with other members of the staff, supervisor, the public and other agencies.

• Knowledge and ability to follow the policies and practices contained in the County Personnel Handbook.

• Ability to work the allocated hours of the position and respond after hours if needed.

The physical and work environment characteristics described in this description are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as otherwise required by law. Employees needing reasonable accommodation should discuss the request with Human Resources.

• This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds of force; work regularly requires standing, frequently requires speaking or hearing, using hands and fingers to handle or feel and repetitive motions and occasionally requires walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, sitting, or crawling and reaching with hands and arms.
• Work has standard vision requirements.
• Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word.
• Work requires observing surroundings and activities.
• Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels.

• May require dealing with persons who are hostile, aggressive, abusive or violent, posing threatening conditions.
• Work is primarily in an indoor setting.