Emergency Communications Dispatcher II

Position Summary The Emergency Communications Department (ECD), also referred to as "9‑1‑1", is a standalone department that operates the Countywide consolidated emergency communications system. The department is the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the County of Monterey and provides emergency and non‑emergency call answering and dispatch services. Communications Dispatcher II’s are under general supervision, dispatch public safety personnel and equipment for law and fire agencies, answer 9‑1‑1 and non‑emergency calls, and operate the computer‑aided dispatch (CAD) system. Responsibilities Receive 9‑1‑1 and non‑emergency calls; use interrogation techniques to determine the appropriate level of service. Enter information by typing while having a live conversation into the CAD system. Determine scene and responder safety; transfer the call to the proper emergency service provider or provide information to field units and/or the public. Manage callers who may be in distress or highly emotional. Initiate incident response. Dispatch police or fire personnel and equipment on routine and emergency calls using CAD, computer terminals, radio dispatch consoles, and related equipment. Control radio traffic, monitor, and maintain status of assigned public safety personnel and equipment at all times. Analyze situations accurately and take effective action to assure officer and public safety. Utilize map and GIS software to identify locations and monitor units. Inquire, interpret, verify, receive, and disseminate information from law enforcement computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, and related matters. Provide instructional and on‑the‑job training to staff as assigned. Receive reports and coordinate the dispatching of emergency vehicles and public safety personnel. Provide backup to other dispatchers as necessary. Record the nature and source of all incoming and outgoing phone and radio messages as required. Relay critical information as quickly as possible. The Successful Candidate Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills, and abilities. Working Knowledge of Techniques, procedures and methods used in the operation of a public safety communications center. The operation of a public safety computer‑aided dispatch system, video display terminals, radio dispatch consoles, enhanced 9‑1‑1 telephone system and other associated public safety communications equipment. Two‑way radio, telephone, and other related equipment commonly used in public safety dispatching. Rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission pertaining to radio and telephone operations. Skills and Abilities Communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively. Operate the public safety CAD system, telephone system, computer terminals, radio dispatch consoles and associated equipment. Monitor audible information from multiple sources (telephone, radio, and co‑workers) in an open space and noisy environment. Interpret rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Document information in English in a clear, organized, concise and understandable manner. Coordinate multiple events and emergency responses. Retain, recall, and evaluate facts and or details solely from memory. Deal tactfully with the general public, law enforcement and other officials. Empathize with members of the public in sensitive and/or distressful situations. Perform multiple tasks while monitoring background telephone and radio communications. Multi‑task requiring simultaneous typing, talking on the radio, answering multiple telephone calls and radio traffic, and switching between computer screens and applications. Work under pressure, exercising good judgment and common sense while making sound decisions in emergency situations. Read and interpret various mapping devices and relay pertinent information. Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with co‑workers, management staff, public safety personnel and the general public. Provide effective customer service. Transition from periods of mental and physical inactivity to periods of intense and stressful mental and physical activity (rapid keyboarding) at a moment’s notice. Use a computer and keyboard and computer equipment with a moderate speed and a high level of accuracy. Accurately type a minimum of 30 words per minute on a computer keyboard. Required Conditions of Employment Possess and maintain a valid California Class C driver’s license or provide suitable transportation approved by the appointing authority. Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during times of disaster and/or emergency; travel out of County to attend meetings. Willingness and ability to remain seated at a console for long periods of time. Work mandatory overtime as assigned. Must be able to pass a thorough law enforcement background investigation. Complete the Continuing Professional Training (CPT) requirement of twenty‑four or more hours of POST‑qualifying training during every two‑year CPT cycle. Possess a California POST‑certified Public Safety Dispatcher’s Basic Certificate within one year. Benefits The County of Monterey offers an excellent benefits package. For details, see the J‑Unit Benefit Summary Sheet. Equal Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation Monterey County is an equal opportunity employer and a drug‑free workplace. The County seeks candidates who can contribute in an environment of cultural and ethnic diversity. Monterey County is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Human Resources Analyst. Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Monterey County honors the service of veterans and eligible military spouses and awards preference points. Veterans or eligible military spouses must complete and email the preference application with supporting documentation within 5 business days of submitting their job application. #J-18808-Ljbffr