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, are supervised by the Information Services Lieutenant and the Emergency Communications Center Supervisor, and work in the Emergency Communication Center located at Police Headquarters.

The primary responsibility of a dispatcher is to answer emergency and non‑emergency calls, dispatch appropriate personnel to the site of an incident, and monitor the police radio system. On the job training is conducted by a certified training officer during normal operating hours and typically lasts 14 weeks, though it may be extended if needed. Once hired, dispatchers must attend and successfully complete an Academy course for entry‑level dispatchers and obtain and maintain Full Access NCIC/VCIN certification.

This role is performed under close supervision and in accordance with established 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
• Final Approval/Job Offer

• Answer emergency and non‑emergency phone calls to the Police Department.
• Answer and dispatch officers on the police radio system; monitor and document necessary radio traffic.
• Dispatch calls for service to officers in the field and maintain status of all units on duty.
• Operate the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computer terminals.
• Assist with warrant control procedures, tow operations, and entering data into the department’s Computer Aided Dispatch / Records Management System (CAD/RMS).
• Monitor traffic cameras and the police headquarters security system.
• Enter calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch system, document events, conduct license, vehicle tag checks, and wanted file checks for officers and detectives.
• Use NCIC/VCIN for various types of information sharing.
• Assist officers with DMV and criminal history information.
• Assist citizens on a walk‑in basis with complaints and questions.
• Provide information and assistance to other City departments.
• Enter complaints, maintain computerized warrants, maintain digital logbooks for internal data and record keeping, and manage tow‑in logbooks.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

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

• Multi‑tasking abilities in a small dispatch environment.
• Working knowledge of the city’s street system and surrounding jurisdictions.
• Proficiency with police radio, telephone, computer, and related communications equipment.
• Understanding of City and state laws as required.
• Computer operation skills.
• Accurate NCIC/VCIN data entry.
• Fast and accurate use of radio, telephone, fax machine, and computer equipment.
• Clear and concise verbal communication with good diction.
• Quick, calm, and accurate decision‑making in emergency situations.
• Strong customer‑service skills when interacting with community members.
• Record‑keeping and typing ability.
• Effective teamwork and relationship management.
• Prioritization of service requests.

Work schedule consists of rotating days on permanent shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. 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, the City of Fairfax encourages minorities, women, and Spanish‑speaking individuals to apply. The City of Fairfax offers comprehensive benefits to our employees.