Dispatcher I

This is varied communications work involving the skillful and prompt operation of the communication center. Work consists of the communication of the Sheriff’s Office through incoming calls on the radio and telephone and dispatching messages to the appropriate parties. The job is often stressful and frequently is performed under pressure. The ability to react calmly and effectively while making rapid but accurate and sound decisions is required. The employee must be able to analyze information, while communicating clearly and concisely skillfully. A well-modulated voice, good diction, and good listening and comprehension skills are essential. The ability to perform multiple time-sensitive tasks are also required. Employees will work with considerable independence following a training period, subject to special instructions or orders to meet special operating circumstances or emergencies—logging of calls and other related clerical duties performed as required. Work is reviewed through the examination of records to determine the proper handling of calls.(All duties listed may not be included in any one position, nor does the list include all tasks found in a position of this class.)

• Receives and evaluates emergency requests for deputy services and provides necessary information or takes other appropriate action.
• Connects incoming calls to appropriate parties.
• Dispatches emergency personnel and notifies ranking officers of calls as required.
• Maintains radio contact with law enforcement agencies.
• Provides dispatcher services for the fire department as necessary.
•  Establishes and maintains contact with other law enforcement agencies.
• Maintains log of all radio transmissions including date, duration, and message.
• Recognize duplicate and relative calls and screen to trouble areas.
• Maintains constant knowledge of available units, chase procedures, emergency alerts, and disaster procedures.
• Follow-up on dispatches; Dispatch burglar alarms called into the communication center.
• Performs related work as required.

Education and Experience

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to Graduation from a high school or GED. 
• Experience receiving, evaluating, transmitting, and monitoring emergency requests via telephone or radio or experience in a customer service position; demonstrating extensive phone or personal contact with the public is preferred. 
• A combination of experience and/or training that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to perform the essential functions of this position is also acceptable.  

Knowledge, Skill, and Ability

• Must have some knowledge of street system and geography of community and county.   Knowledge of telephone and radio operating requirements.
• Ability to speak in a well-modulated voice and deal with the public and other employees acceptably.
• Ability to keep records. 
• Must type 45 words per minute.
• Must pass a CritiCall test, which measures multitasking and map reading skills.

Physical Requirements
Work is essentially sedentary with occasional walking, standing, bending, but must respond to phone and radio quickly. Position requires the physical ability to sit in confined seating for extended periods, and operate a computer keyboard.  Must be able to see well enough to read computer terminal, printouts, and reports.  Must be able to hear well enough to understand radio traffic with background noise and speak clearly and understandable on the radio.

Certifications or Licenses Required
Must complete the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) Public Safety Telecommunicator course.

Other Requirements
Must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check.  Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Salary : $42,640