Dispatcher I

Dispatcher I

Under direct supervision, receives reports of smoke management, wildfires, law enforcement requests, storm damage and other emergency and non-emergency incidents. Appropriately dispatch fire suppression personnel through the use of a computer aided dispatch system, two-way radio, and telephone. Assumes Coastal and Piedmont region dispatch/call taking responsibilities.

Receives reports of fires, law enforcement needs, storm damage and other emergency incidents from the public, local fire departments, 911 systems, forestry pilots and other safety officers. Processes, records and disseminates this information. Operates computer aided dispatch system to dispatch personnel to fire locations. Maintains accurate records of all dispatched personnel and their locations. Provides two-way radio contact between firefighters, field personnel, and the Dispatch Center. Uses computer aided dispatch system to take smoke management information to ensure burner is within smoke management guidelines. Processes and records this information.

Assumes Coastal and Piedmont region dispatch/call taking responsibilities.

Performs dispatch and other related duties on daily task lists as assigned in support of the agency's mission and initiatives.

Performs other duties in support of the Forestry Commission's mission and strategic plan.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A high school diploma and entry-level work experience with voice communication systems or switchboard exchange operations.

Must be able to type 35 WPM and have basic computer proficiency.

Criminal background check and drug and alcohol test are required.

Completion of Introduction to the National Incident Management System (IS-700) within first year of employment.

Additional Comments

This position works 39 hours per week during night shift, 4 days of working 9.75 hours per day (8:30PM-7:15AM) on a rotating work schedule to include weekends and holidays.

Position is located in an office environment. Must be able to remain stationary for long periods of time while answering calls. Occasionally moves about the work area to access file cabinets, office machinery, and other job-related equipment. Must be able to lift 25 lbs., bend, and squat.

Ability to learn to operate a computer-aided dispatch system, two-way radio and telephone communication equipment. Basic knowledge of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules and regulations concerning two-way radio operations.

Active listener with strong customer service and communication skills. Ability to speak clearly and concisely, must be able to interpret written instructions, policies, and materials used in performing dispatching duties; must react quickly, accurately, and calmly in a stressful environment.

This position is designated as safety sensitive and essential. Position requires the employee to be subject to random, post incident/accident, reasonable suspicion and rehabilitation monitoring and drug and alcohol testing consistent with SCFC Drug-Free Workplace- Policy and Procedure.

Benefits

The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies. Insurance Benefits Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses. Retirement Benefits State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options. Workplace Benefits State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more. Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.