Police Dispatcher- Laterals Only

Under general supervision, the Police Dispatcher for the Martinez Police Department is responsible for facilitation of communications between members of the public and personnel of this police department and other public service agencies.   Representative duties include, but are not limited to, operating the police communications center using various equipment such as telephone, radio, computer and related communications equipment.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
 
The Police Dispatcher is a non-sworn law enforcement position typically working inside the communications center of the police department.  The primary function of the position is to utilize communication equipment essential to the operation of the Martinez Police Department.   Such operations may involve multi-tasking in stressful situations in which public health, safety and welfare may be endangered.
 Essential:
 

• Operates radio, computer, telecommunications and related equipment
• Receives calls for service and dispatches department personnel via radio, computer or telephone
• Maintains, enters information into and queries local, regional and national computer databases
• Uses department computer aided dispatch software and records management system software to input data which facilitates the dispatching and recording of law enforcement and other operational tasks of the Martinez Police Department 
• Incumbents of this classification are required to work shifts, holidays and weekends
• When assigned as a Communications Training Officer, trains, mentors, and evaluates the performance of assigned trainees

Marginal: 

• May perform matron duties
• May be required to perform other duties as needed  

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
 
Employees in this classification report to the Dispatch Supervisor.QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of: Be familiar with computers, computer related systems and operations.

Ability to: speak clearly and concisely; be mentally alert at all times while on duty; remain calm under stress; make rapid decisions, many times while performing two or more operations; possess a good memory; have a well-groomed appearance; correctly apply established department policies and procedures in the dispatch of emergency units; communicate with the public in a warm and friendly manner; follow oral and written directions and commands; prepare and maintain accurate records and reports; maintain effective working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
 
The incumbents will have prior dispatcher experience, have demonstrated proficiency in the techniques and methods of radio dispatching involving public safety operations, and are capable of handling emergency situations requiring independent judgment as to the correct course of action where unprecedented situations may arise. 

Applicants must have experience as a public safety dispatcher and possess a valid Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) or its equivalent.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
 
Possess a valid California driver's license; be able to pass a thorough background investigation, polygraph test, psychological evaluation and physical evaluation including drug screen prior to appointment.


 Selection Process:

Application Screening: Applications, resumes,  supplemental questionnaire and/ or other required documentation will be evaluated on a comparative basis. Those individuals whose materials best indicate possession of the stated requirements, may be invited to continue to the next step in the selection process.

Supplemental Questionnaire: All applicants are required to complete the questionnaire. This questionnaire will be used throughout the examination process to assist in determining each applicant's qualifications and acceptability for the position.
 
Examination Process: 

Tentative Oral Board Interviews : TBD

PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
This position is subject to a 12 month probationary period.

NOTE:
This position is part of the bargaining unit represented by the Martinez Police Non-Sworn Employees' Association.

Salary : $88,584 - $107,667