Public Safety Dispatcher

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Public Safety Dispatcher's performs a variety of dispatch duties on behalf of the Texarkana TX Police and Fire Departments, Texarkana, AR Police and Fire Departments, Bowie County Sherriff’s Office, and other agencies along with the Fire Departments.

The Public Safety Dispatcher also provides for the delivery of emergency and non-emergency services to the public; prepares dispatch records and documentation; operates various types of telecommunications equipment; and performs other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

This position reports to the Emergency Communications Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None

SALARY RANGE

Starting salary - $35,360.00/Annually

After completion of training - $37,440.00

Annually

Licensed within the first year - $40,435.20/Annually

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Duties shall include, but not be limited to:

Using the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, prepares, maintains, and submits various types of dispatch records and documentation.

Monitors incoming radio traffic; dispatches Police, Fire, and/or non-emergency response personnel to appropriate call locations.

Maintains communication with field units; monitors the locations and safety of field personnel.

Research and relays call information to responders.

Performs driver license, vehicle registration, criminal background, warrant checks, and make entries; processes wrecker requests.

Operates various types of telecommunications equipment, software programs and systems including TCIC, ACIC, NCIC, RMS, and CAD.

Inputs updates and verifies the accuracy of information in the TCIC/ACIC/NCIC systems.

Attends training and develops safety communications knowledge and skills along with continuing education.

Maintains compliance with established Public Safety Communications policies and procedures.

Answers overflow calls from the 911 Call Taker position.

Performs other related duties as assigned or required.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICTIONS

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or GED.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

(a) Must pass skill assessment.

(b) Ability to apply knowledge to solve problems.

(c) Familiarity with Windows-based computer systems.

(d) Operate multi-line phone system.

(e) Able to multi-task.

(f) Able to communicate effectively and calmly during stressful situations.

(g) Able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language fluently.

(h) Able to type 33 wpm (Tested).

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Able to work any 12 hour shift as assigned, including nights, weekends, holidays and frequent overtime.

Able to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive law enforcement material and operational security.

Able to pass skills testing, psychological exam, drug screen, background check.

Must be a US citizen.

No experience is required as this is an entry-level position.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Two-way radio;
Computer;
Telephone. Audio headsets

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk;

use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Exposure to high levels of stress and psychological challenges common to the delivery of emergency dispatch services is involved.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representing of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment ranges from moderately quiet to moderately noisy.