Dispatcher

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Dispatcher receives public and officer contact through multiple sources and on multiple lines; dispatches police, fire, and EMS units to accident scenes and crime scenes; maintains communication with officers in the field; relays information as it comes in from callers; refers calls not related to the Police Department; and other duties which may be assigned. This work requires responsible and accurate performance of duties. Each Dispatcher is assigned to a particular shift and works at the Ocean Springs Police Department on Bienville Blvd.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

General Supervision:

Lead Dispatcher, Administrative Captain Direct Supervision:

Lead Dispatcher, Shift Lieutenant HOURS Shift work and shift rotations

PAY Starting Pay Rate:

$17.50/hour Experienced = Training and experience will be evaluated to determine salary.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Receives and transmits all telephone and radio messages Keeps radio patrols advised of developments and proper approach in handling of crime and criminals when such guidance is necessary Receives reports and complaints by telephone, car radio, and other sources Monitors Alert and Alarm Systems and passes information on to the proper persons when emergency data are transmitted to them Calls ambulance services and repair crews as needed Keeps a log showing all pertinent information received during a shift Exchanges information with the National Crime Information Center as required Maintains card files and gives information when requested on stolen cars, missing persons, etc. Maintains radio contact with State authorities and surrounding cities Observes burglar alarms connected to Police Headquarters Shall become familiar with all city ordinances If needed, shall assist with receipt and documentation of fines and bail bonds; issuance of affidavits, arrest warrants, and subpoenas; and/or arrestee booking process Any technical action that needs clarification, i.e. laws, rules, regulations, if not positively known and referenced, shall not be released to any person without advice from the Chief of Police.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from a high school or GED equivalent with specialized course work in general office practices such as typing, accounting, and/or data processing.

NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Working knowledge of computers and electronic data processing; modern office practices and procedures; and standard office software including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook Skill in

Operating Listed Tools and Equipment Tools and Equipment Used:

Personal computer, telephone, fax, copy machine, mouse, keyboard, two-way radio, camera systems Ability to learn and operate public safety software systems Ability to perform arithmetic computations accurately and quickly Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing Ability to establish successful working relationships Ability to work under pressure and/or frequent interruptions Ability to work with angry and difficult customers. Be able to read and write standard English and the ability to speak English clearly.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk and hear; to use hands to finger, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk. Sufficient finger dexterity to operate computer keyboards in required. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, the ability to adjust focus, and 20/20 corrected vision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Submission of completed Employment Application (with resume as a supplement only) to Human Resources; notification of examination date and location; written examination; evaluation of education and experience; oral interview and reference/background check; other job-related tests as required. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed as a Dispatcher. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Miscellaneous Information Shift work and shift rotations