Public Safety Dispatcher

The City of Ames is looking to fill at least one position as Public Safety Dispatcher, within the Police Department. A Public Safety Dispatcher with the Ames Police Department performs work involved in the operation of a complex communications system; receives and handles both emergency and non-emergency communications from a wide range of sources; dispatches appropriate services, personnel, and and/or equipment in response to police, fire, or medical emergencies;

and performs other related work as required. The work for this position is within a 24/7/365 environment and is subject to shift assignment and creates occasional mandatory overtime.

• Conducts in depth research by utilizing multiple various resources.
• Answers emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
• Receives and relays messages to appropriate personnel.
• Directs requests for assistance for police, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS) to the appropriate agency.
• Prioritizes calls for service and dispatches appropriate resources in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Provides emergency medical instruction.
• Operates radio console by receiving and transmitting radio communications.
• Maintains contact with units at all times during shift assignment.
• Maintains a continuous record of the status of mobile units, manual/automated logs, and records, including a log of all information received and transmitted.
• Sends/receives computer terminal messages and routes messages to appropriate destinations.
• Monitors cameras, alarms, and City Hall doors in case of required emergency lockdown.
• Works with other Police divisions, such as Animal Control and Records, and all other City of Ames departments.
• Operates other equipment essential to the position.

• Regularly exposed to sensitive and confidential information that cannot be discussed or shared outside the workplace.
• Act as essential emergency personnel and are required to come to work in disaster and bad weather situations.

The City of Ames is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against.

Education and Experience:

Successful completion of high school, HiSet, or G.E.D. is required.

Applicants with related college coursework and/or two years relevant work experience, including working in a team environment while maintaining effective working relationships within fast paced ever changing environments, may be preferred.

Licenses and Certificates:
Must obtain IOWA/NCIC, CPR, and Emergency Medical Dispatching certifications within six months of appointment and re-certify as required. Must attend and successfully complete the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy 40-hour training course within one year of appointment.