Public Safety Dispatcher

Position: PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER

This is specialized work in receiving 911 emergency, as well as non‑emergency and administrative calls, and dispatching information in a communications center. Although the work is performed within established policies and procedures, the job requires the ability to make good, sound decisions and remain calm in emergency situations. The incumbent must be knowledgeable of police and fire operations and of the geographical layout of Ridgeland, MS.

Supervision and assignments are received from a superior both orally and in writing. Work is reviewed by superiors through observation, monitoring of operations, and the review of records and reports.

The incumbent will be assigned to a 12‑hour shift (6 AM to 6 PM or 6 PM to 6 AM).

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following duties. Additional essential functions may be identified by the City of Ridgeland and listed as such in the incumbent's performance appraisal elements. Various tasks may be assigned under each essential function. Those that are listed under the examples of work are not all inclusive; they are examples only and may be amended or added to as needed by the City of Ridgeland.

EXAMPLES

OF WORK

• Operate telephone, radio, and other communication equipment.
• Receive emergency calls and complaints, which must be properly processed by obtaining all pertinent information for handling emergencies and ensuring officer and public safety.
• Dispatch appropriate personnel and equipment to scenes of police, fire, medical incidents, accidents, natural disasters, rescue operations and other emergencies, and assign backup units as needed.
• Receive routine calls and provide information as requested.
• Maintain radio contact with all police and fire units away from station; maintain status and current information on all units in and out of service.
• Monitor all alarms and dispatch units as needed.
• Maintain records of all emergency and other dispatches.
• Periodically make routine announcements and relay messages via radio.
• Operate accessory equipment which includes NCIC, typewriter, computer keyboard, TDD, and facsimile.
• Maintain an inventory of supplies at communication desk and request additional supplies when necessary.
• Act as after‑hours dispatcher for the Public Works Department.

TYPICAL

QUALIFICATIONS:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following minimum qualifications have been identified by subject matter experts (SME's) who have supervised this position or functioned in the position; they are based upon job analysis information supplied by these SME's. However, if a candidate believes he/she is qualified for the job although he/she does not have the minimum qualifications set forth below, he/she may request special consideration through substitution of related education and experience, demonstrating the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Any request to substitute related education or experience for minimum qualifications must be addressed to the Human Resources Director, in writing, identifying the related education and experience which demonstrates the candidate's ability to perform all essential functions of the position. If a candidate believes he/she needs a reasonable accommodation to meet these minimum qualifications, the candidate must notify the Human Resources Director, in writing, of the need for the accommodation and identify the specific accommodation requested.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Graduate from an accredited high school or GED.
• Six (6) months related experience and/or training in related field.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• A valid Mississippi driver's license.
• Dispatch Certification MJIC and NCIC desired, but not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively and clearly to individuals over the telephone, radio, or in person.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

These physical requirements are not exhaustive and additional job‑related physical demands may be added to these by the City of Ridgeland if the need arises. Corrective devices may be used to meet these physical requirements.

• Ability to sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to use hands to operate equipment and perform the essential job assignments.
• Ability to see, talk, and hear.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds on a regular basis.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The duties associated with this position are performed inside in a controlled atmosphere. The noise level is quiet to moderate.

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