Police Dispatcher

Police Dispatcher I

The City of Healdsburg is currently recruiting for the opportunity of Police Dispatcher I! The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, possess strong written and verbal communication skills, and have the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. We encourage individuals of all skill levels to apply. Typing speed of 40-45 WPM is highly desired. Prior experience is not required, and training will be provided to the hired incumbent.

The first 18 – 24 weeks following hire will consist of one-on-one, on-the-job training. Training will encompass all aspects of the position, including computer aided dispatching, using the police radio, and communicating with members of the public on the phone and in person while they may be experiencing an emergency or crisis. On top of the extensive training provided, the City of Healdsburg will enroll the hired incumbent in a 4-week POST Dispatch Course within one year of employment!

We hope you will consider this rewarding career with the City of Healdsburg! Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis. Interviews may be scheduled at any time until the position has been filled. Prompt application is encouraged!

The Police Dispatcher will perform communications between Police and Fire personnel, the general public and other law enforcement and fire agencies in emergency and non-emergency situations; to receive and relay information by a variety of communication methods; and to provide technical support to an assigned supervisor. This is the entry level class in the Police Dispatcher series. Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks.

The Police Dispatcher I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Maintain communications between Police and Fire personnel, the general public and other law enforcement and fire agencies; receive and relay information by radio, telephone, at the counter or by other communication means as appropriate; receive incoming 911 emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, for Police and Fire services. Answer phones and 911 calls; assess need, nature of the call and reason for requesting assistance;

collect pertinent data; dispatch to appropriate field personnel; monitor and coordinate progress, location and needs of field personnel during specific activities in accordance with established procedures; enter information into system and maintain radio and activity log; research and provide accurate information requested by officers and citizens. Contact and coordinate with county sheriff's department and other mutual aid agencies when applicable.

Provide accurate information to the public and assist walk-in citizens with requests at the front counter; receive complaints and reports from the public by telephone and over the counter. Operate a Computer Aided Dispatch System; maintain department communications equipment and request repairs when needed. Perform a variety of general support work to assist and maintain Police records, reports and files;

accurately process and file arrest reports, warrants, subpoenas, citations and other miscellaneous departmental paperwork as required; maintain reference materials. Assist with searching, booking and fingerprinting prisoners; arrange for tow trucks and contacts other appropriate agencies as needed. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service. Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.

Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication. Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:
Principles and…