Emergency Communications Dispatcher

Emergency Communications Dispatcher Under general supervision, receives 911 system emergency and non-emergency calls; dispatches assignments according to established emergency and County procedures; operates various telecommunications equipment; performs related work as assigned. Responsibilities Receives, analyzes and evaluates 911, sheriff’s emergency and business calls, inquiries and complaints via multi-line and TDD terminals; transfers calls to appropriate parties or creates a call for dispatch. Determines proper jurisdiction and/or staff to be dispatched. Dispatches sheriff units, ambulances or other staff and equipment to emergency or non-emergency locations. Operates computer consoles for call input, dispatching and continuous update of suspect information and deputy location. Enters call information in written or computer-based format; logs and fills out call forms; maintains records of radio calls. Operates multi-channel radio systems; monitors other channels while maintaining radio traffic on main channels. Operates computer equipment to access local, state and federal criminal justice information systems; operates teletype systems to transmit and receive information. Maintains radio contact with mobile and portable units; recognizes units from other agencies and assists them with county units or provides requested information. Monitors varied alarm and/or surveillance equipment; takes action depending on apparent needs. Responds to deputy-initiated radio traffic and requests and disseminates suspect information from roll call boards, prior calls and bulletins. Maintains and accesses business and premise history and index files for emergency and other necessary contacts. Handles in-house and radio paging, and other after-hours phone lines. Provides court testimony related to calls as required. Performs basic equipment adjustments and maintenance; maintains records and files and may perform associated office support duties. Provides work instruction to newly-hired emergency communications dispatchers. Knowledge Terminology and procedures used in sheriff’s and related emergency radio and telephone communications. Operation of communication equipment including telephone, radio, paging, computer and related systems. Rules, regulations, codes and laws related to the work. The topography and communities of Humboldt County. Basic record keeping principles and practices. Standard office equipment including computerized equipment and typewriter. Skills Obtaining information from individuals in emergency situations, including those who are emotionally distraught, angry or difficult to understand. Assessing and prioritizing emergency situations. Remaining calm and making rapid and sound independent judgments in stressful emergency situations. Operating complex radio, telephone, computer, and teletype systems. Memorizing codes, names, locations and other detailed information. Communicating tactfully and effectively with the public, public safety personnel and others. Typing with sufficient speed and accuracy to operate keyboards, including typewriters and computer terminals. Following oral and written instructions. Performing routine office support and record keeping duties. Other Requirements Must be able to pass a detailed background investigation. Must be willing to work evening, night, weekend and holiday shifts. Must be willing to be called back or held over to maintain minimum staffing levels. Must be able to meet mandated P.O.S.T. standards. Desirable Education and Experience Two years of public contact which has included exchange of factual information including one year of emergency dispatching experience. Equal Opportunity Employer The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances. Licenses Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver’s license. Probationary Period Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period. Employment Eligibility It is the County’s intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status. Disaster Service Workers All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency. #J-18808-Ljbffr