Communications Operator Certified

Dispatcher Position

Signing bonus available for experienced dispatchers.

The Suffolk Police Department is looking for an experienced dispatcher to join their Emergency Communications Center. The ideal candidate will have experience in independent operation of all aspects of public safety dispatching and will be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily.

• Operates multi-line telephone system and telecommunication device for the deaf and hearing impaired (TDD) to receive, answer, screen, and process incoming calls for service.
• Responds calmly and tactfully to callers on Emergency 911 and non-emergency lines to obtain complete and accurate information for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Prioritizes calls for appropriate response.
• Operates radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control to calls for service. Monitors the status and location of field units. Relays messages and information to emergency response personnel using appropriate radio terminology, while adhering to the applicable Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations. Records transmitted information into CAD, as appropriate.
• Notifies other agencies needed to assist Police, Fire and EMS in emergencies.
• Utilizes Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) cards or software to ask vital questions and provide pre-arrival instructions as needed.
• Operates a computer terminal connected with the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center to obtain such information as driver's history, vehicle registration data, criminal record information, stolen property information, etc., as necessary.
• Monitors security alarms for businesses, court, schools, etc.
• Facilitates language interpretation between non-English speaking callers and interpreters to provide assistance needed.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to speak clearly and precisely over the telephone and radio.
• Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with employees, supervisors, and representatives from other departments and organizations.
• Performs various clerical duties, as necessary.

For Certified Communications Operators:
Salary determination based on 50% credit for years of dispatch experience. Graduation from high school or GED and Basic Dispatcher State certification; current or previous certification in VCIN/NCIC; proof of Emergency Medical Dispatch Training completion, current CPR certification required, at least two years of experience in public safety dispatching, and at least two of the following certifications preferred:

• DCJS General Instructor
• DCJS Specialty Instructor
• Crisis Intervention Team Certification
• Communications Training Operator or other skills deemed appropriate by the Chief of Police or their designee as an acceptable substitution for a certification

Salary starting from: $55,368

Automatic Disqualifying Factors for Sworn & Non-Sworn Applicants The following list includes all items for which an application for a sworn and non-sworn position will be automatically disqualified.

• Conviction of any felony
• Conviction of domestic violence
• Any conviction regarding the involvement in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs
• Conviction of any Class 1 or 2 misdemeanor (or the Virginia State Law equivalent) within the last five years, excluding traffic violations (minor offenses may be looked at on a case-by-case basis)
• Embezzlement or misappropriation of funds from a former employer
• Founded child/elder abuse or neglect case
• Illegal possession of a schedule I or II drug or any derivative thereof within the last five years (excluding marijuana)
• Illegal use and/or possession of anabolic steroids within the last five years
• Illegal use of any drug classified as a hallucinogen within the last five years

Driving History

• Four or more negative points on a Virginia Operator's license (or the equivalent for out-of-state residents). Points may be negated by attending defensive driving school offered by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) prior to the one-on-one interview with the background investigator.
• Conviction of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within past five years
• Eluding police within past five years
• Leaving the scene of an accident within past two years
• Multiple convictions of DUI
• No valid driver's license and/or inability to obtain a Virginia license
• Refusal to take a blood or breath test related to suspected DUI/DUID within past five years
• Suspension or revocation of license or conviction of reckless driving within the last twelve months

Other Disqualifications

• Two or more bankruptcies
• Any "Dishonorable Discharge" or discharge "other than Honorable", from the military resulting from disciplinary action (case by case as determined by disposition code).
• Cheating on any examination or testing associated with this position
• Crimes of moral turpitude (lying, cheating, stealing)
• Ineligibility to possess a…