Dispatcher - Emergency Services

Ford County

Position Summary: Under the supervision of the Emergency Communications Assistant Director or Emergency Communications Director, this position accurately, quickly and courteously receives emergency and non-emergency telephone calls for police, fire, emergency medical or other public safety services. Essential information is obtained from the caller to quickly and accurately assign the appropriate units and resources to render aid for each public safety incident. Provide communications coordination between agencies and resources and otherwise provide support for all public safety response services following established policy and procedures.

Essential Functions: 

    Reasonable Accommodation Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

   Essential Function Statement(s)

• Operate an emergency communications system, data terminal and base station or mobile unit two-way radio to maintain continuous contact between officers and public safety agencies in conformity with all Federal, State and Local law;
• Know and use appropriate radio codes and phraseology;
• Make rapid independent decisions and coordinate communications under life-threatening situations and emergency conditions;
• Send out emergency notifications on the current alert system;
• Set off warning sirens when necessary;
• Update data to ensure computer system information is accurate;
• Assist the public when non-emergency questions are posed when possible;
• Maintain positive rapport and form professional relationships with coworkers and local officials;
• Monitor alarm and warning systems such as the National Weather Service, teletypes and security alarms;

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

• Public Relation/Education program presentations as assigned
• Troubleshoot equipment
• Respond to disaster or extreme exigent circumstances as assigned

Position qualifications   

• Must be a United States Citizen
• Possess a valid Kansas Driver’s License or obtain one within 30 days of employment
• Pass a criminal background check.
• Pass a post-offer drug screen.
• Meet all required education and certification within 12 months of accepting this position.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Experience: This is an entry-level position.  Experience in customer service, data entry, public safety is helpful.

Education:  High School diploma or equivalent is required. On the job training is mandatory and may include: Certification through National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and /or Kansas Criminal Justice Information System (KCJIS); Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD); Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Skills:  Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal methods. Working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and other Microsoft Office programs. Ability to accurately keyboard at 35wpm.

Problem Solving:  Decision making during crisis situations following established protocol and policy is required.

Accountability:  Employee is not responsible for budgetary control of the department budget.

Supervision:  Job assignments constantly reviewed by supervisor; this position does not have supervisory duties over subordinate personnel.

Personal Relations:  Frequent contact with the public in distress, public officials and members of public safety agencies requiring the ability to communicate and relate in a positive and effective manner.

Working Conditions:  This position involves shift work in a relatively closed environment with multiple electronic monitors and machine sounds. A large number of conversations via telephone and radio may occur simultaneously. Ability to hear 25 decibels or less at 500 Hz; 4,000 Hz; and points in between and to accurately interpret what is heard.  Visual acuity that is correctable to 20/20.

Physical Demands                                          LIFT/CARRY

Stand                           O (occasionally)          10 lbs. or less              C (constantly)

Walk                            O (occasionally)          11-20 lbs.                    O (occasionally)

Sit                                C (constantly)             21-50 lbs.                    O (occasionally)

Handling/Fingering     C (constantly)             51-100                         N (not applicable)

Reach Outward           O (occasionally)          Over 100 lbs.              N (not applicable)

Reach above shoulder O (occasionally)          Push/Pull

Climb                          O (occasionally)          12 lbs. or less              O (occasionally)

Crawl                          O (occasionally)          13-25 lbs.                    O (occasionally)

Squat or kneel             O (occasionally)          26-40 lbs.                    O (occasionally)

Bend                           O (occasionally)          41-100 lbs.                  O (occasionally)