Emergency Dispatcher I​/II

Definition

The Emergency Dispatcher series provides full emergency and non-emergency communications and dispatch services to law enforcement, fire protection, medical services, and other public safety agencies. Under general supervision, the dispatcher operates a variety of communications and dispatch equipment to receive, monitor, and transmit routine and emergency messages, dispatch public safety equipment and personnel during emergencies, and perform related duties as required.

Distinguishing

Characteristics

Emergency Dispatcher I: Entry level; requires completion of a one-year probationary period with training in operating complex electronic and telecommunications equipment under close supervision.

Emergency Dispatcher II: Experienced level with technical proficiency in routine and emergency dispatch services and greater latitude and independence with minimum supervision.

Supervision Received and Exercised

• Dispatcher I – Receives supervision from the Senior Emergency Dispatcher.
• Dispatcher II – Receives general supervision from the Senior Emergency Dispatcher.

Essential Functions

Receive and dispatch routine and emergency telephone and radio communications from law enforcement, fire protection, medical services, and other public safety agencies; determine the proper jurisdiction, equipment, and personnel to be dispatched.

Monitor public safety frequencies.

May monitor fire and burglar alarm systems.

Coordinate efforts with other public safety agencies as required.

Dispatch units using radio and other equipment to the scene of an emergency.

Provide information to field personnel responding to fire alarms such as location of water supply, fire hazards, response routes, etc.

Maintain radio contact with local units and other agencies.

Respond to National Warning System alerts.

Operate teletype terminals and other data communication equipment to send, receive, and record information.

Perform clerical work including computation of statistics and data entry.

Perform related duties as required.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill

Knowledge of: Modern office procedures, record keeping principles, city geography, map reading, English grammar, vocabulary and spelling.

Ability to: React quickly and calmly in emergencies; maintain confidentiality; retain information; interpret maps accurately; multitask; exercise judgment; take accurate messages; follow instructions; communicate effectively; write legibly; maintain records; perform basic math; establish effective relationships; follow safety policies; use protective equipment; dispatch and monitor for multiple agencies; operate CAD and CLETS; complete continuing education.

Special Requirements

• Type at minimum 40 words per minute with accuracy.
• Work irregular hours, variable shifts, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays and overtime.
• Qualify for security clearance via background investigation and fingerprint check.
• Speak and enunciate clearly with appropriate volume over radio and telephone.
• Hear telephone conversations and normal radio communications with static or weak transmissions.
• Work at computer consoles in standing or sitting positions for extended periods.
• Designated as first responder in local, state or national emergency.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Emergency Dispatcher I: One year of general office or public contact experience; computer experience or training involving data entry and word processing highly desirable; equivalent to completion of twelfth grade; must complete P.O.S.T. certified Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Course within one year of hire.

Emergency Dispatcher II: One year performing duties equivalent to an Emergency Dispatcher I; equivalent to completion of twelfth grade; possession of valid California P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatcher certificate and valid C.L.E.T.S. training certificate.

Working Conditions

Office environment with exposure to computer screens. Primarily works in a highly controlled access facility with restrictions on public entry; sit/stand for extended periods; routine typing; oral communication; hearing weak transmissions; visual ability to distinguish colors on CAD; routine visual ability for reading, driving, and viewing screens.

Veteran's Preference

Veteran's preference available upon request. Applicants must submit the request form and certified DD‑214 prior to the closing date.

Selection Process

Applications received by the filing date will be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, and job‑related qualifications. Applicants who clearly demonstrate they meet the requirements may be invited to participate in the selection process, which may include written, oral, and/or performance exams. A passing score of 80% or more is required to advance to the next phase.

Additional Information

Typing certificate verifying 40 words per minute, dated within six (6) months of application submittal, must be uploaded with online application (online typing certificates are NOT accepted).

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