PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER I/II

Basic Function:

Perform a variety of dispatching and clerical duties in support of City-wide emergency and non-emergency police, fire and medical services; operate a telephone to receive routine and emergency requests from City personnel and the public; dispatch police, fire and medical personnel as appropriate.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

The Public Safety Dispatcher I classification provides an opportunity to learn the terminology, processes and operations of public safety dispatch functions.

Public Safety Dispatcher I:

$71,915.58 - $87,413.87 The Public Safety Dispatcher II classification performs a variety of responsible duties requiring an understanding of the operations, procedures and functions of emergency and non-emergency police, fire and medical service dispatch functions.

Public Safety Dispatcher II:

$79,381.33 - $96,488.50

Essential Duties:

Perform a variety of dispatching and clerical duties in support of City-wide emergency and non-emergency police, fire and medical services; coordinate flow of communications between City services to assure appropriate and timely response to City needs and emergencies. Operate a telephone to receive routine and emergency requests from City personnel and the public; dispatch police, fire and medical personnel utilizing assigned radio equipment according to established guidelines and procedures; maintain call logs. Respond to informational requests from City personnel and the public; utilize an assigned computer system to input data and extract information related to stolen vehicles, outstanding warrants, driver's licenses, vehicle registration, missing persons and prisoner or civilian information; establish and maintain automated records as directed. Compile information and prepare and maintain a variety of records and reports related to dispatch activities, incidents, warrants, stolen vehicles and assigned duties. Operate a variety of office and dispatching equipment including a copier, headset, recorder, computer and assigned software. Maintain radio communications with City police, fire and medical emergency units to exchange information, coordinate activities and resolve issues or concerns; confer with outside fire, police and medical agencies to request and provide information as needed. Participate in a variety of other assigned activities such as dispatching animal services, arranging for vehicle towing and monitoring security camera monitors to identify illegal or suspicious activities.

Knowledge of:

Modern office practices, procedures and equipment. Oral and written communication skills. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Operation of a computer and assigned software. Record-keeping and report preparation techniques. Telephone techniques and etiquette.

Ability to:

Perform a variety of dispatching and clerical duties in support of City-wide emergency and non-emergency police, fire and medical services. Operate a telephone to receive routine and emergency requests from City personnel and the public. Dispatch police, fire and medical personnel as appropriate. Learn, interpret, apply and explain policies, procedures, rules, codes and regulations. Learn local geography, street locations, important buildings and landmarks of the area. Learn City organization, operations, radio procedures and dispatch guidelines. Type or input data at 35 words per minute from clear copy. Maintain records and prepare reports. Answer telephones and greet the public courteously. Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Complete work with many interruptions. Operate a computer and assigned software. Meet schedules and timelines. Report to work every scheduled workday.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Public Safety Dispatcher I:

Any combination equivalent to graduation from high school and one-year of clerical experience involving frequent public contact.

Public Safety Dispatcher II :

Any combination equivalent to: graduation from high school and one year of experience as a Public Safety Dispatcher

I. LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Public Safety Dispatcher I:

Must type at a speed of 35 net words per minute. Valid POST Public Safety Dispatch Certification within 12 months of employment.

Public Safety Dispatcher II:

Must type at a speed of 35 net words per minute. Valid POST Safety Dispatch Certification.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Environment:

Office environment. Constant interruptions.

Physical Demands:

Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard. Seeing to read a variety of materials. Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person and on the telephone. Sitting for extended periods of time.