Emergency Communications Officer; 911 Dispatcher; Amherst, VA

Emergency Communications Officer (911 Dispatcher) (Amherst, VA)

Are you calm under pressure and committed to helping others in critical moments? Amherst County is seeking a dedicated Emergency Communications Officer to serve as the vital link between the public and emergency responders. In this role, you will receive and process 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls, gather critical information, and dispatch the appropriate police, fire, and EMS units to ensure a fast and effective response.

• Answer and prioritize 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service in accordance with department policies, including Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols.
• Obtain detailed information from callers and dispatch appropriate emergency personnel.
• Monitor field units and maintain awareness of their status and location.
• Enter and retrieve information through NCIC/VCIN and Computer-Aided Dispatch systems.
• Maintain confidential records and handle sensitive information with professionalism.
• Process and maintain documentation from the Sheriff's Office, courts, and magistrate (including warrants, protective orders, and investigative reports).
• Assist in coordinating emergency service activities during major incidents or county-wide emergencies.
• Perform routine administrative tasks and support overall communications center operations.

• Clear, effective verbal communication and active listening skills.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and efficient in high-stress, fast-paced situations.
• Strong multitasking and prioritization abilities.
• Accurate typing and data entry skills with proper grammar and spelling.
• Ability to understand and follow detailed procedures, policies, and instructions.
• General knowledge of public safety operations is helpful.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of experience involving responsible contact with the general public.

• Ability to sit for extended periods while monitoring systems and answering calls.
• Frequent use of hands/fingers for typing and operating communications equipment.
• Clear verbal communication and the ability to hear audio communications systems.

• Must obtain the following within one year of hire: 40-Hour Basic Dispatcher Training.
• CJIS certification for access to NCIC/VCIN systems.
• CPR and Emergency Medical Dispatch certification.
• FEMA IS-100, IS-200, and IS-700 NIMS courses.
• Clean driving record and no prior criminal convictions.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment health screening, including drug screening and hearing exam.

• Competitive County salary starting at $37,000+ based on experience and qualifications.
• Full County benefits package including Virginia Retirement System (VRS) participation.
• Opportunities for advancement.
• A supportive, team-focused work environment.

This is a full time position.