Police Dispatcher I/II - Lateral

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Positions at the Police Dispatcher I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.

1. Receives calls, complaints, and inquiries from the public for police, fire, medical, or other emergency and non-emergency services over the phone; answers 911 calls; screens incoming calls to determine necessity, priority, and type of response required in accordance with established procedures.
2. Dispatches public safety emergency units using a computerized dispatch system, including determining priority of the emergency and contacting and sending an appropriate response unit.
3. Maintains contact with field units, including accounting for location and status of units and maintaining records of field calls; sends back-up units, as necessary, ensuring the safety of field units.
4. Operates computer, telephone, radio console, and telecommunication equipment simultaneously while performing dispatching activities.
5. Enters, updates, and retrieves a variety of records from computer databases, including stolen vehicles, vehicle registration information, weapons information, and warranted or missing persons; ensures databases are accurate and have the most up-to-date information; alerts supervisor of database discrepancies or necessary updates.
6. Accesses federal, state, and local law enforcement information databases to obtain information regarding outstanding warrants, criminal history, stolen vehicles, and property, records information, and vehicle registration data; relays such information to sworn staff; monitors 24-hour teletypes and responds or escalates requests as appropriate.
7. Provides initial non-emergency contact with the public and representatives of other agencies for services; determines the nature of the contact; provides factual information regarding services, policies, and procedures; directs the caller to the appropriate individual or agency; coordinates emergency calls with outside agencies for aid and assistance.
8. Processes new and recalled warrants; verifies warrant information is accurate; confirms warrants are valid; maintains existing warrant files.
9. Monitors alarm panel for City businesses and Police Department video surveillance cameras.
10. Acts as a liaison to the public and representatives of other agencies for the department; provides initial non-emergency contact with the public and representatives of other agencies for the requesting of police records or related services; determines the nature of the contact; provides factual information regarding services, policies, and procedures; directs the caller to the proper individual or agency.
11. Maintains accurate departmental and law enforcement records and files; researches and compiles information from such files; performs a variety of filing, indexing, and other general clerical work.
12. Attends necessary training, shift briefing sessions, participates in drills, and test scenarios to prepare for unexpected emergencies.
13. Assists with searching, monitoring, and/or escorting female detainees and their children, as necessary.
14. Observes and complies with City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

Positions at the Police Dispatcher I level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, procedures, techniques, and terminology used in law enforcement and public safety dispatching, including computer aided dispatch and related emergency systems.
• Basic functions of law enforcement agencies.
• Techniques for eliciting and providing accurate and timely information in emergency situations.
• Operational characteristics of communications equipment including telephone, radio, pager, and computer-aided communication systems, and related devices.
• Terminology used in dispatch operations.
• City and County geography, maps, streets, and landmarks.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
• Methods and techniques of conflict resolution.
• Principles and practices of data collection and report preparation.
• Principles and procedures of recordkeeping.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Assess and prioritize emergency situations while remaining calm and using sound, independent judgment.
• Dispatch appropriate response units for a diverse range of emergency situations.
• Quickly and accurately disseminate information.
• Effectively communicate with upset and irate callers; obtain necessary information from individuals in stressful or emergency situations.
• Compile and summarize information to prepare accurate, clear, and concise reports.
• Memorize codes, names, street locations, and other information.
• Read and interpret maps and other pertinent documentation.
• Perform technical, detailed, and responsible office support work.
• Organize, maintain, and update office database and records systems.
• Multi-task by listening, speaking, and performing computer functions simultaneously.
• Maintain composure, alertness, and concentration while working for extended periods of time.
• Within established parameters, make independent decisions that affect the safety of law enforcement personnel, citizens, and property.
• Learn and effectively utilize various law enforcement software programs to retrieve or record information quickly and accurately.
• Learn and apply a wide variety of classification codes, computer commands, and standard broadcasting procedures and rules.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Operate a computerized dispatch system and radio and telecommunications systems quickly and accurately.
• Enter and retrieve data from a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform assigned work.
• Establish and maintain a variety of filing, recordkeeping, and tracking systems.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Ability to work extended hours and rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays.

The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must possess mobility to work in a centralized communication operations environment, using public safety emergency services equipment including computer-aided dispatch systems, telephones, radios, and other communication devices, as well standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone and radio. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required. Performance of the work frequently requires positions to remain at a workstation for extended periods of time. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Employees work in a centralized communication operations environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Employees work under typical office conditions with moderate noise levels.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.