Regional Fire Communications Operator; Temporary​/Part-Time

The position is located in the Communications Center of the Fire Department. The position is responsible for receiving and responding to calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance through dispatching firefighting or rescue units via the operation of the Computer Assisted Dispatch (CAD) system.

Working Hours:

The Downey Fire Communications Center is a 24/7 operation. Interested applicants must be willing to work various assigned shifts, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

This recruitment is to establish an Eligible List for four (4) part‑time positions of Regional Fire Communications Operator. An Eligible List is generally in effect for one year, unless exhausted sooner. The established List may also be used for full‑time appointments as needed.

Temporary/Part‑time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system; however, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.

Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandated CalPERS employer contributions; therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part‑time employment with the City of Downey.

Part‑time hours of work will be scheduled based on operational needs. A Part‑Time employee may work up to twenty‑four (24) hours per week and may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).

• Receives and responds to requests for emergency services from the public via 911, other public safety agencies and standard telephone systems.
• Using the CAD, maintains status of all equipment, personnel and apparatus as to location and availability, ensuring optimum coverage is achieved throughout the system.
• Operates and monitors multiple radio frequencies and determines the appropriate personnel, apparatus and equipment to be dispatched using complex radio and/or computerized systems.
• Uses proper dispatch terminology when broadcasting calls and speaking to the public.
• Keeps command personnel informed of the status of emergency situations and maintains accurate records and logs of communications activities.
• Learns and maintains familiarity with the locations of streets and buildings through everyday use of computerized and hardbound mapping systems.
• On a daily basis, works closely with local police and fire agencies in the sharing of resources and information regarding multi‑agency incidents.
• Monitors and reports problems to radio, phone and computer systems within the center to the appropriate agency in a timely manner.
• Provides pre‑arrival emergency medical instructions in accordance with the Department's Emergency Medical Dispatch program.

Any combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:

Education: High School graduation or equivalent.

Experience: One (1) year of experience as a Fire Dispatcher. (Desirable)

OR

Experience: One (1) year combined experience in dispatching fire, paramedic, ambulance, law enforcement, and/or military units. (Desirable)

OR

Experience: Completion of Public Safety Dispatcher training thorougha P.O.S.T. accredited college or university. (Desirable)

OR

Experience: Two (2) full‑time years of clerical/administrative support experience requiring extensive public contact either in person or over the phone withsome use of independent…