Public Safety Dispatcher

Under the direction of the shift supervisor, staff a 24 hour, 7 day communications center on a rotating shift. Process and record emergency and routine complaints. Dispatch and receive radio calls regarding crimes, patrol, citizen assists, basic information, etc. Operate, update, and maintain computer terminal used for requesting and receiving information from the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System based on officer requests. Provide assistance to public as requested over telephone and public counter. Operate, update, and maintain Computer Assisted Dispatch System. Monitor and direct appropriate response to Police and Fire alarm systems.

Qualifications

Required:

• Ability to prioritize and route multiple telephone calls of various importance, often simultaneously.
• Interview skills which effectively control persons in emergency situations
• Ability to prioritize and disseminate information quickly and accurately, and to act on such information.
• Skill in operating two way radio equipment, and handling routine maintenance of same. 
• Ability to effectively operate various forms of alarm equipment and handle routine maintenance of same.
• Skill in writing concise, logical reports to explain daily shift occurrences, using correct spelling and grammar.
  
• Ability to operate various office machines (typewriter, computer, copier, etc.) and handle routine maintenance of same.
  
• General knowledge of basic medical and law enforcement terminology.
  
• Ability to maintain equanimity in difficult situations and with hostile members of the community.
• Ability to meet POST (Police Officer Standards Training) requirements and pass required classes for California Police Dispatchers.

Can be trained

• Skill in operation Computer Assisted Dispatch system, and handling routine maintenance of same.
• Skill in working as part of a team; communicating effectively with colleagues in a difficult environment.
• Skill in speaking clearly and distinctly, using correct English to communicate with public and department personnel in a concise and informative manner.