Public Safety Dispatcher I

Under the direct supervision of a Public Safety Dispatch Supervisor, uses radio, computer terminal, or telephone to: receive and record reports of emergency and non-emergency information, complaints, messages, and requests for service, assistance, or coverage; transmit reports and messages to mobile units, persons or departments; and dispatch equipment and personnel to location where service, assistance or coverage is needed. Functions as call-taker and/or radio dispatch operator for fire, police, or emergency medical service, as assigned.

Is required to work evenings, nights, holidays, and weekends as assigned; does related work as directed.

Under the direct supervision of the Public Safety Dispatch Supervisor.

None

• Performs related duties as required.
• Receives emergency and non-emergency complaints, messages, information, and requests for service by radio or telephone.
• Questions callers to obtain further information as required.
• Utilize several programs for emergency verification including Carbyne, Rapid SOS, and What 3 Words.
• Set priorities among incoming calls to determine which should be transmitted first.
• Determines appropriate course of action based on departmental procedures and information from the computer-aided dispatch system and/or Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols.
• Explain to the caller steps to be taken or a third party at the scene to assist the individual requiring emergency medical response.
• Transmits messages by radio to mobile units or by telephone to the appropriate person, department, or agency.
• Dispatches proper equipment and personnel to locations where service, assistance, or coverage is needed.
• Monitors various radio frequencies, computer terminals, or other systems for information or requests for assistance.
• Obtains information from reference books and manuals or computer files and appropriate language references.
• Maintains various logs and files manually or on the computer.
• Assists in on-the-job training of new personnel.
• Operates recording equipment.
• Checks equipment, requesting repair service as needed.

• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Thorough knowledge of the operation of radio and communications equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of dispatching terminology, procedure, and equipment.
• Ability to effectively utilize departmental radio, telephone, and computer systems.
• Ability to remain calm and maintain composure under stressful circumstances.
• Ability to deal effectively with others and maintain positive working relationships.
• Knowledge of, and ability to effectively utilize, all components of Emergency Medical Dispatch.
• Knowledge of the City of Stamford geography, including, but not limited to, streets, landmarks, and other prominent locations.
• Ability to find information in directories, manuals, and computer files.
• Ability to maintain logs and files.
• Ability to receive, clarify records, and input oral and written communications accurately and in a timely fashion.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Proficiency in keyboarding.

Graduation from an accredited high school and a minimum of three (3) years of general work experience which includes using computer technology and interacting with customers and/or co-workers.

Within one year of hire must obtain the following certifications:
State of Connecticut Public Safety Telecommunicator, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Enhanced 911, and COLLECT/NCIC. As a condition of continued employment, all listed certifications must be maintained.

As a condition of employment, the employee is responsible for maintaining all required certifications. Any lapse in a required certification shall be immediately reported to the employee’s supervisor.

Qualified applicants must participate in a comprehensive, competitive examination process designed to test for required skills and abilities. See below for exam description.

The test process for Public Safety Dispatcher…