Dispatcher

• Operates telephone console to receive incoming emergency and non-emergency requests for public safety service obtaining relevant information from the caller and providing instructions to maintain caller safety.

• Operates Motorola radio system to communicate with police, fire and medical personnel, and surrounding jurisdictions for mutual aid purposes.
• Apply Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) and Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocols as prescribed by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch to applicable phone calls.
• Query, Interpret, and manage entries in the Iowa On-line Warrants and Articles (IOWA) System and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) System.
• Manage and validate records, including but not limited to warrants, orders of protection, missing persons and stolen vehicles and articles, on behalf of the law enforcement agencies within Dispatch’s jurisdictions
• Utilize a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to record all calls for service from both phone calls and field personnel, and maintain an up to the minute status on all assigned field personnel.
• Utilize a record management system (RMS) to maintain in-house electronic records.
• Operate standard office equipment and computer software including a multifunction printer and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Record and report any communications equipment/system malfunctions to appropriate personnel within reasonable time. Be familiar with and utilize backup systems and protocols when necessary to maintain full services at all times.
• Completes regular, assigned in-service training as prescribed by the dispatch Training Coordinator.
• Monitors Iowa Courts Online and the Iowa EDMS system for relevant Court Documents.
• Maintains Logs of Incoming/Outgoing documents and warrant validations.
• Serves as liaison for Dallas County Dispatch and the Dallas County Clerk of Court
• Performs related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One to two years work related experience in a communications or law enforcement field.
• Ability to obtain Priority Dispatch certification in EMD protocols within a time frame established by the employer and maintain throughout duration of employment.
• Ability to complete and maintain the State required forty (40) hour BASIC Telecommunications State Certification through IOWA Law Enforcement Academy within one (1) year of hire date.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid State of Iowa driver’s license.

• Knowledge of Priority Dispatch system for Emergency Medical and Fire Dispatching.

• Knowledge and/or the ability to learn street locations and common places in Dallas County, and surrounding communities and to read maps to determine exact locations for dispatching.
• Ability to learn the operation of the Communications Center equipment, including, but not limited to, input and retrieval procedures for the Computer Aided Dispatch system, the IOWA/NCIC computer system, the enhanced 911 system, and the geographical mapping system.
• Knowledge of the IOWA System and 911 dispatching skills.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
• Ability to learn policies, operating procedures and methods utilized in the operations of the Communications Center.
• Ability to perform job duties efficiently while managing frequent interruptions.
• Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with the general public governmental officials, law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies, supervisors and co-workers.
• Ability to maintain a courteous and professional demeanor when dealing with the general public, all public safety personnel and coworkers.
• Ability to respond rapidly, effectively, and exercise sound judgment in emergency situations, maintain the emotional composure necessary to organize work and maintain a high level of productivity during periods of stress or high activity.
• Ability to handle and maintain information of a confidential and sensitive nature.
• Skill in problem solving.
• Skill in prioritizing and planning.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in accuracy and attention to detail.

• The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects and must distinguish between shades of color.

• The work is typically performed in the Communications Center.

Dallas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.