Dispatcher In Training; Public Safety Communications

Position will be open until filled.

The Communications Division is one of the most vital services for both our Police and Fire departments and also serves as the critical link between the citizens in need and responding personnel. Dispatchers receive and dispatch requests for Police, Fire, EMS, and other emergency and non-emergency services.

Base Pay
: $45,426.00 – $56,062.00 per year
Employee Type
:
Full Time Non-exempt
Required Degree
:
High school
Manage Others
:
No

• Answers multi-line telephones for both emergency and non-emergency calls. Identifies the problem(s), reassures the victim or caller, gathers required information (nature, severity, location and status of emergency), and dispatches units and information.
• Operates a multi-channel public safety radio system while simultaneously listening to and comprehends both telephone and radio traffic; receives and transmits pertinent information on all calls for services including those in progress and those involving other agencies; monitors activities of Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Service personnel; maintains the location and call status of all emergency units during an assigned dispatch shift.
• Maintains records and data for items such as warrants, missing persons, stolen property and emergency protection orders by confirming information is correct, entering and modifying information in database, and clearing information as applicable.
• Operates computer terminals for specialized access with various automated data banks; simultaneously inputs, retrieves, and maintains information, reads from both computer screens and printouts; reads and interprets maps, charts, and other graphic material in print and computer format. Communicates with hearing/speech impaired citizens by operating a specialized T‑D‑D system.
• Provides assistance to residents and visitors by communicating and relaying messages, responding to requests for information, referring questions to the appropriate department or agency and interacting with citizens on a regular basis.

• Dispatch Trainee: $45,426/YR
• Dispatch I: $50,464 (after certification and up to 3rd year)
• Dispatch II: $53,189 (after 3rd year and up to 5th year)
• Dispatch III: $56,082 (after 5th year)
• Dispatchers will receive $300 Loyalty Pay every anniversary date of hire added to current salary.
• Eligible Dispatchers will receive $100/month for bi-lingual pay.

Testing Date & Time
:
Selected candidates will be contacted concerning testing.

• Be a United States citizen.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• A valid Texas Driver License with a good driving record is required.
• Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure.
• Able to pass all necessary training to perform the functions of the job.
• Able to receive the TCOLE Basic Telecommunications Operator Certification prior to completing the one (1) year probationary period.
• Be available to work mandatory overtime as required due to manpower or other emergency situations.
• Be available to be called in with little or no notice due to unforeseen emergencies; ex:
  Acts of nature, terrorist actions, etc.
• Regular and timely attendance is required.
• Current respondents:
  Applicant is currently employed in a Law Enforcement/Fire Call Center, Shows experience and knowledge to the comparable position listed above, Currently holds TCOLE Telecommunicator Operator License, Currently holds at least a TCOLE Basic Telecommunicator Certification.

Be able to sit for long periods of time. Be able to handle high call radio and phone volumes.

• Ability to listen and communicate effectively.
• Ability to evaluate a situation and determine the appropriate level of response needed.
• Ability to remain calm and function appropriately during stressful situations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to successfully work in a multi-tasking environment with constantly changing priorities.

• Has been convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor under the Penal Code or equivalent under federal law, to include the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), within ten (10) years – temporary rejection.
• Has been convicted of or admitted to conduct which constitutes a felony under state or federal law, to include the UCMJ – permanent disqualification.

An applicant will not be considered for employment while charges are pending for any criminal offense.

Job postings may be withdrawn at any time at direction of the City Manager.