Public Safety Dispatcher

Job Overview Strafford County Dispatch Hiring Process Working at Strafford County Dispatch is a demanding and rewarding career that requires professionalism, strong decision-making skills, the ability to multitask under pressure, and excellent communication abilities. Dispatchers serve as the critical link between the public and emergency responders by handling emergency and non-emergency calls and coordinating police, fire, and EMS responses throughout Strafford County. Strafford County Dispatch provides emergency communications services for 9 municipalities as well as the Strafford County Sheriff's Office, dispatching for police, fire, and EMS agencies across the region. Due to the sensitive and high-responsibility nature of the position, the hiring process is extensive and thorough. Applicants should expect the process to take approximately 4-5 months from the time of application to final hiring. The process is designed to ensure candidates are capable of performing the duties required in a high-stress public safety environment.

Hiring Process May Include:

dispatch skill test Oral interview panel Comprehensive background investigation to include a criminal background check Reference and employment verification Medical examination Psychological evaluation Drug screening Final command staff interview Training and orientation requirements Applicants must demonstrate integrity, professionalism, emotional stability, confidentiality, and the ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Main Functions of Strafford County Dispatch Strafford County Dispatch operates as the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) and communications center for the agencies it serves. The center performs several critical public safety functions including: Call Taking Answering 911 emergency calls Handling non-emergency administrative calls Gathering critical information from callers Prioritizing incidents based on urgency Dispatching Emergency Services Dispatching police, fire, and EMS units for 9 municipalities and the Sheriff's Office Coordinating responses to emergencies and large-scale incidents Providing updates and critical information to responders in the field Radio Communications Monitoring multiple radio channels simultaneously Maintaining communication with field personnel Relaying officer safety information Coordinating mutual aid and interagency communications Emergency Coordination Managing major incidents and disasters Coordinating resources during severe weather, fires, crashes, and critical incidents Supporting incident command operations Records and Information Systems Entering and updating calls for service Running vehicle registrations, warrants, and criminal history information Maintaining accurate documentation and logs Accessing state and national law enforcement databases Public Assistance Providing assistance to callers during emergencies and crisis situations Handling requests for welfare checks, road hazards, alarms, and public assistance Delivering pre-arrival instructions when applicable Officer and Responder Safety Tracking unit status and locations Monitoring emergency radio traffic Initiating emergency procedures during distress situations Maintaining situational awareness during active incidents Emergency dispatchers are often the first first responders during emergencies and play a vital role in protecting the communities they serve. The position requires calmness under pressure, attention to detail, strong computer skills, excellent communication abilities, and the ability to make rapid decisions in critical situations.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $26.90 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Dependent health insurance coverage Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance On-the-job training Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person