Emergency Services Dispatcher I

The primary responsibility of this class is to receive process, transmit and/or dispatch 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls for police via telephone and other communication devices. This class involves receipt of law enforcement calls and response to typical situations associated with the emergency/non-emergency telephone caseloads. This class incumbent’s principle function is call taking; however, as assigned the incumbent may perform operations tasks in support of 911, radio and dispatch functions. Incumbents in this class must maintain a calm, professional demeanor while handling a variety of calls. The incumbent is responsible for accurately receiving and disseminating information via telephone and computer without hesitation. Incumbents must quickly comprehend the nature of any emergency call and route the call appropriately in accordance with standard operating procedures. Incumbents use various types of emergency communications equipment and multiple computer hardware and software applications to accomplish assignments.

• Operates a multi-line telephone to answer incoming calls, interviews callers to determine nature of request, classifies the request and determines the response needed.

• Required typing and computer skills for the use of Computer Aided Dispatch.
• Operates a complex Computer Aided Dispatch System, which functions for Police Emergency Response, handling approximately five hundred (500) calls for service daily.
• Utilizes the Computer Aided Dispatch System to notify the dispatch of request for service, to maintain control and to record the activities of all dispatches or calls for service.
• Maintains accurate logs and records in the Computer Aided Dispatch system and associated documentation in accordance with agency SOPs and retention requirements.
• Significant competency in all aspects of interpersonal communication, including teamwork concepts.
• Ability to maintain emotional/psychological control during stressful and time intensive situations and events.
• Ability to work shift work, 12 hour days/nights including weekends/holidays.

• Requires a high school diploma or GED.

• Requires a valid State of Florida driver license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment.

• Requires six months or more of experience in customer service, office administration, or a public-facing communications environment. Strong communication, typing, and computer skills required. Must have the ability to multi-task and thrive in a fast-paced environment. Must be able to remain calm and professional across a wide variety of situations. Must be able to type 35cwpm and maintain that typing speed throughout employment.

• Must pass an intensive police background check.

• Public Safety dispatching or 911 call center experience is preferred.

• Must be able to work 12-hour shifts including weekends/holidays. Shifts include 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Will primarily work 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. for the first year of employment.