Communications Dispatcher

Overview

The City of Garden City is accepting applications for 911 Communications Dispatcher with the Garden City Police Department. This position provides law enforcement and public safety services to the community, including answering incoming telephone calls, recording information for referral, dispatching of law enforcement, fire, and/or EMS personnel and equipment, and performing clerical activities.

• Operation of multi-line telephone equipment. Answer 911 and non-emergency calls, ask vital questions to interpret, analyze, and anticipate the caller’s situation, resolve problems, provide information, dispatch emergency services, or refer callers to other agencies. Record information to ensure proper handling, referral, or transfer of the call to appropriate personnel or agency.
• Prioritize requests for services. Receive and respond to a variety of emergency and non-emergency services and complaints. Determine and assign call priority based on the nature of the request and availability of personnel; refer the request to appropriate personnel.
• Operation of radio console. Learn and operate the radio console to monitor and communicate on multiple frequencies. Dispatch and coordinate the response of multiple public-safety agencies, handle information or assistance requests from other employees, and learn paging procedures and alert tones used during the shift.
• Operation of computer. Enter calls for service, officer-initiated activities, dispositions, important party information, alarms, driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations, NCIC and warrant checks, and other data; retrieve information to support other divisions or agencies.
• Process of reports and calls for service. Document actions of officers, fire personnel, and other agencies on appropriate logs; check the accuracy of all calls entered during the shift daily.
• Knowledge to perform duties. Understand rules, regulations, procedures including safety procedures; know jurisdictional boundaries, thoroughfares, landmarks, and public buildings within the jurisdiction; learn and understand basic dispatch codes, standard abbreviations, and industry terminology used by emergency medical services and law enforcement agencies.
• Clerical activities. Type entries into the computer; write clearly and spell correctly; process roll call information forms for appropriate personnel.
• Technical skills. Use Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, GIS, RMS, CAD, and NCIC; maintain security and confidentiality of records.
• Communication and customer service. Serve as a liaison with divisions, government departments, agencies, community organizations, and the public; communicate clearly and courteously, exercise judgment, prioritize, and work under pressure; listen actively and follow instructions.
• Public presentations. May conduct public talks on issues affecting law enforcement or society; stay well-versed on current issues.
• Other duties. Perform all other duties as assigned.

Minimum requirements: Minimum age 18 on date of examination; no felony convictions; high school diploma or GED; valid Kansas driver’s license. Previous experience in communications or working with the public preferred; over one year clerical, secretarial, or related field preferred.

Skills: Proficiency in operating modern communications and office equipment; typing skills of 40 wpm preferred, minimum 30 wpm; ability to maintain confidentiality; effective communication with department personnel, City officials, and the public, especially under stress; ability to learn city demographics; willingness to work flexible hours; ability to multi-task and work within a team.

A completed City application is required. Apply online. Testing and interviews will be conducted on an ongoing basis. Applicants are encouraged to schedule an observation of the Communications Center to see the duties firsthand. EEO

• $1,000 for Local Hires
• $3,000 for Out-of-Town/Out-of-State Hires