Dispatcher; Public Safety Telecommunicator

Dispatcher (Public Safety Telecommunicator)

General Description of Duties:

• Receives calls for emergency and non-emergency services, screens calls and dispatches law enforcement or other appropriate response vehicles.
• Operates a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system and computerized electronic communication system.
• Monitors radio traffic and location information of law enforcement personnel.

• Accurately enter and retrieve information from various computer systems and programs in a timely manner.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• React quickly and calmly to emergency situations, use logic and reasoning to identify solutions, and make effective decisions under stress.
• Prioritize work efficiently.
• Know the geography of the county and its road network.
• Understand dispatch codes and signals used to respond to emergency and non-emergency services.
• Be familiar with FCIC/NCIC rules, regulations, codes, and query forms.
• Know computerized communications center systems and procedures.
• Skill in using computers, two‑way radio communications, and other equipment required for daily tasks.
• Skill in eliciting critical information from citizens in stressful or life‑threatening situations.
• Accurately perform data entry at 100 keystrokes per minute.

• Speak and hear clearly; sit for extended periods (typically 12‑16 hours); use hands and fingers for handling, feeling, and other tasks.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, reach, climb stairs, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Maintain color perception and close vision.

• Answer emergency and non‑emergency calls for service.
• Operate a state‑of‑the‑art CAD and electronics communication system; screen and input calls, including reported crimes, using proper event codes.
• Evaluate and prioritize calls to determine the nature of the call and appropriate level of service.
• Dispatch and monitor radio traffic; maintain location information of law enforcement personnel.
• Check jurisdictional boundaries and notify other agencies when a call is within their boundaries; provide assistance as requested.
• Respond to inquiries from law enforcement personnel for information on tag numbers, warrants, and other miscellaneous inquiries; make phone calls as needed.
• Maintain communication logs in accordance with state regulations and agency policies.
• Complete all assignments within specified timeframe and budget, following agency policies and regulations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Arrive on time; limit breaks and lunches to allotted time; leave on time. Use leave in accordance with General Orders and provide proper notice.
• Deliver the volume of work required by the position within quality standards.
• Collaborate with teammates to achieve group goals; support leaders and maintain a team‑friendly environment.
• Follow standard office procedures, safety policies, and agency General Orders.
• Maintain good interpersonal relations with the public, employees, and supervisors; present a clean, groomed image.
• Operate and care for equipment, tools, and vehicles according to prescribed standards.

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Valid Florida driver license or Florida .
• Obtain Florida DOE Public Safety Telecommunicator certification within twelve (12) months of appointment.
• Obtain Emergency Police Dispatcher (EPD) certification within six (6) months of appointment.
• Obtain NCIC/FCIC certification within six (6) months of appointment.
• Must be able to work flexible hours and shifts in a 24/7 operation.
• Initial employment will be in trainee status; entry‑level salary applies until training completion.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees that fosters, maintains and promotes equal employment opportunity for all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, political affiliation, veteran’s status, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, to include transgender status, disability or status in any other group protected by federal, state, or local law.

• Excellent State Retirement
• Uniforms for Specific Civilian Personnel
• 12 Holidays Per Year (includes employee's birthday)
• Excellent Vacation Plan – Start accruing two weeks of vacation time earned by the end of your first year
• Sick Leave – 12 days per year, accrued by pay period
• Life Insurance – Equals annual base salary
• Health Insurance (optional)
• Dental (optional)
• Take‑Home Vehicle for Specific Civilian Personnel
• Career Service – After one year of satisfactory continuous service
• Deferred Compensation Plan (optional)
• Direct Payroll Deposit (any banking institution)
• Disability Insurance (long‑term disability)
• College Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Extensive Wellness Program –