Dispatcher ; Dispatcher

About the job Dispatcher I (Dispatcher Recruit)

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Immediate supervision is provided by a Dispatcher III. Technical or functional supervision may be provided by a Dispatcher II or Dispatcher III.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Receive emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from the public requesting police, fire, and local government service; determine nature and priority; dispatch units as necessary; and/or refer or transfer callers to ensure excellent customer service.
• Maintain radio contact with all units on assignment.
• Coordinate emergency calls and relay information and assistance requests involving other law enforcement and firefighting agencies.
• Query information from law enforcement communication networks relating to wanted persons, criminal history, stolen property, and Department of Motor Vehicle information.
• Query and enter stolen, stored, and repossessed vehicle information.
• Perform a variety of records keeping duties related to the computer aided dispatch system.
• Test and inspect equipment as required.
• Testify in court as needed.
• Prepare written responses or reports related to communication complaints, investigative follow-ups or police reports.
• Write daily work progress reports when training a new Dispatcher.
• Demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, empathy, and excellent customer service in accordance with departmental policy and the community-oriented policing concept.
• Other related duties may also be performed; not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual holding this classification.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• English grammar, usage, spelling and punctuation.

Ability to:

• Express themselves in English in a clear, distinct, and understandable manner when speaking to individuals, before diverse populations, various public and community groups, and when testifying in court.
• Effectively communicate with and elicit information from upset and irate citizens.
• Work under pressure and exercise good judgment in emergency situations.
• Exercise independent judgment and work with a minimum of supervision.
• Use a computer and keyboard to enter data provided verbally and in writing.
• Learn standard broadcasting rules and procedures.
• Learn City street system and physical layout of Sacramento.
• Understand and comply with oral and written directions.
• Learn to operate computer-aided dispatch, telephone, and radio broadcasting equipment.
• Value customers and co-workers through provision of excellent customer service.
• Operate office machines and equipment.

EXPEREINCE AND EDUCATION

• High school diploma or GED equivalent and completion of twelve (12) units from an accredited college or university.
• One (1) year of customer service experience and successful completion of the Sacramento Police Department's Basic Dispatch Academy within the last twelve (12) months.
• OR
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Four (4) years of customer service experience and successful completion of the Sacramento Police Department's Basic Dispatch Academy within the last twelve (12) months.