Director of Emergency Communications and Dispatch

Responsibilities

The Director of Emergency Communications and Dispatch is responsible for overseeing the emergency communications center, its equipment, and personnel. The Director is responsible for all administrative tasks, including scheduling, time sheets, training, policies, and protocols. The Director shall report directly to the Sheriff or their designee and supervise the Dispatch leads and all other dispatch employees. The Director will communicate effectively with the Emergency Services Coordinator, Fire Chiefs, and EMS Chiefs, both paid and volunteer, to adopt policies and procedures related to the dispatching of Emergency Fire and Emergency Medical Services.

The Director should have a high-level working knowledge of all equipment and technologies in the dispatch office, including radios, CAD, and phones, and work with Information Technology and Radio Techs to develop a working knowledge of the equipment's functionality.

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field, and progressively responsible administrative and supervisory experience, or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities is required. A minimum of supervisory, communications, project management, and policy development skills is required.

Certification as an emergency communications dispatcher, as well as VICIN and NCIC certification. Supervisory and/or training skills of three or more subordinates. Regular and continued communication skills, both written and oral. Documented management of an implementation or oversight of a project implementation or development. Documented development of a policy, procedure, or training manual as well as ongoing revisions and implementation. Excellent management and supervisory skills.

Must have acquired a certification for emergency dispatching, emergency medical dispatching, VICIN, and NCIC, or have the ability to acquire certification within one year. Possession of a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license. Complete a comprehensive background investigation to include polygraph and psychological examination. Pre-employment and ongoing drug testing.