A Dispatcher answers emergency calls and relays information from callers to the appropriate police, fire or ambulance staff. Speaks calmly with callers to get the information needed for emergency personnel. Keeps detailed records of calls and responses.
Under close supervision as a trainee and productive worker, receives and responds to telephone or other electronic requests for emergency assistance including law enforcement, fire, medical, or other emergency services and/or dispatches appropriate units to response sites; does other related duties as required.
EXAMPLES OF WORK
Answers and processes 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls, obtaining and documenting critical information. Determines the appropriate emergency response and dispatches police, fire, EMS, or other personnel using established protocols. Maintains communication with callers and responding units, providing emergency medical, safety, or other pre-arrival instructions as appropriate. Operates Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio, telephone, ALI/ANI, TTY/TDD, and other communications systems. Maintains accurate records, reports, and communication logs, and enters and updates information in state and federal public safety databases. Coordinates emergency and non-emergency communications with multiple agencies and refers non-emergency calls to the appropriate resources. Learns and utilizes agency policies, procedures, and emergency communications systems.
REQUIREMENTS
Appointees to positions at Public Safety Answering Points and at some Public Safety Dispatch Points must successfully complete training and obtain certification by the Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services (OETS) in the Department of Law and Public Safety as required by NJAC 17:24- 2.2, during the trainee period.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of emergency communications, dispatch procedures, and public safety operations following a period of training. Ability to accurately gather, evaluate, document, and relay information in emergency and non-emergency situations. Ability to operate emergency communications equipment, CAD systems, and related technology after training. Ability to communicate clearly, calmly, and professionally with the public and emergency personnel, including individuals in crisis. Ability to analyze information, make sound decisions, prioritize multiple tasks, maintain confidentiality, and work effectively under pressure. Ability to maintain accurate records and follow established policies, procedures, and safety guidelines. Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to perform the duties of the position.
RATE:
$22.67 per hour; per diem position with hours assigned as operational needs require. EEOC This title is classified and noncompetitive through Civil Service Must be a resident of New Jersey. Preference given to Salem County Residents.
