Temporary Police Dispatcher

Description

Applications are now being accepted for Police Dispatcher positions in the City of Fairfax Police Department.

All Dispatchers are assigned to the Administrative Services Division and supervised by the Information Services Lieutenant and the Emergency Communications Center Supervisor. Dispatchers work in the Emergency Communication Center, located at Police Headquarters.

Dispatchers’ primary responsibility is answering emergency and non‑emergency calls, dispatching appropriate personnel to the scene, and monitoring the police radio.

On‑the‑job training is conducted by a certified training officer in the Emergency Communications Center during normal operating hours. Training consists of written tests, task accomplishment, daily feedback, and observation reports. It is normally 14 weeks but may be extended if needed.

Once hired, all Dispatchers must attend and successfully complete an Academy course for entry‑level dispatchers.

All Dispatchers are required to obtain and maintain Full Access NCIC/VCIN certification.

This job works under close supervision according to set procedures.

• Application/Pre‑Screening Questions/Personal History Statement submission
• Initial Interview
• Panel Interview
• Typing Test
• Practical Exam
• Conditional Job Offer
• Background Investigation
• Polygraph Testing
• Psychological Testing
• Chief’s Interview and Final Approval/Job Offer

• Answers emergency and non‑emergency phone calls made to the Police Department.
• Answers and dispatches officers on the police radio system; monitors and documents necessary radio traffic.
• Dispatches calls for service to officers working in the field and maintains status of all units on duty.
• Operates the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computer terminals.
• Assists with warrant control procedures, tow operations, and entering data into the department’s Computer Aided Dispatch / Records Management System (CAD/RMS).
• Monitors traffic cameras and the police headquarters security system.
• Enter calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch system for dispatching, documents events, conducts license, vehicle tag checks, and wants files for officers and detectives, and relays the information.
• Uses NCIC/VCIN for various types of information sharing.
• Assists officers with DMV and criminal history information.
• Assists citizens on a walk‑in basis with complaints and questions.
• Supplies information and assistance for other City departments.
• Enters complaints, maintains computerized warrants, maintains digital logbooks for internal data and record keeping, and tow‑in logbooks.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• United States citizen eligible for employment.
• No felony convictions or involvement.

• Handle multi‑tasking duties of a call taker or dispatcher in a small dispatch environment.
• Working knowledge of the street system and geography of the City of Fairfax and surrounding jurisdictions.
• Working knowledge of operating a police radio, telephone, computer, and related communications equipment.
• Knowledge of City and state laws as required.
• Skills in operating a computer.
• Make NCIC/VCIN entries with minimum errors.
• Operate radio, telephone, fax machine, and computer equipment quickly and accurately.
• Speak clearly and concisely and use good diction.
• Think and act quickly, calmly, and accurately in emergency situations.
• Demonstrate strong customer service skills while interacting with various members of the community.
• Maintain required records and perform limited typing.
• Maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Prioritize requests for service.

• After all training is completed, may work flexible hours that might include days, nights, weekends, and holidays based on agency needs.
• Position is considered temporary and will not be able to work twelve months consecutively.
• Permitted to work up to 1559 hours in a fiscal year and not more than 40 hours per week.
• No benefits or leave provided.
• Additional pay may be considered based on past experience, ability to speak a foreign language (proficiency test required), and other job‑related skills.
• As an equal opportunity employer, minorities and women are encouraged to submit applications.
• Spanish speaking individuals are also encouraged to apply.