School Police Dispatcher

Dispatcher Position

This is an open competitive recruitment to create an eligibility list for current and future openings. Successful candidates are expected to work eight (8) hours a day, five (5) days a week, and twelve (12) months a year. Candidates must submit proof of all supporting documents to be considered for the recruitment process. Failure to attach any one of the required documents will result in disqualification from the recruitment.

Successful candidates will be placed on the eligibility list that will remain valid for six months from the date of approval by the Personnel Commission.

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, performs responsible dispatching duties to assist School Police in timely responses to routine and emergency calls, monitors alarm equipment and security cameras; receives and transmits routine and emergency radio messages; receives telephone calls; prepares various reports, logs, correspondence and files; and performs related duties as assigned.

This single position classification exercises independent thinking and judgment when receiving and responding to calls, alarms in schools and offices; initiates, receives, and transmits radio messages; dispatches School Police patrol units.

Monitors alarm equipment and security cameras and receives incoming emergency and routine radio and telephone calls; determines appropriate action based upon available information; secures and records necessary information regarding nature and location of incidents; dispatches necessary police, fire or other emergency resources according to established procedures.

Maintains contact with District School Police and dispatches units to assigned intrusion calls.

Receives telephone calls from public reporting irregularities and incidents at schools or other District facilities.

Inputs information into computer, collects and files information regarding incidents and departmental activity; compiles data, prepares and types reports and memorandums as assigned.

Operates a variety of departmental equipment such as two-way radio communication system and radio/transmit monitor, computer terminal, telephone and copier.

Assist individuals in person or over the telephone with limited or non-English speaking persons as related to emergency and non-emergency situations.

Processes and maintains a variety of confidential information as necessary.

May operate a District vehicle.

Knowledge of basic principles of public safety dispatching and related codes. Techniques of maintaining composure in emergency situations. Correct oral and written usage of English. Modern office practices, procedures and equipment. Operation of a computer terminal. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy in person and over the telephone. Technical aspects of field of specialty.

Ability to monitor alarm equipment and security cameras; receive and transmit routine and emergency radio messages; receive telephone calls. Reason and respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations in a calm and efficient manner. Speak clearly and concisely over communications systems. Understand and follow oral and written directions. Learn to interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Operate a variety of departmental equipment such as two-way radio communications system and radio/transmit monitor, computer terminal, telephone and copier. Prioritize emergency situations. Compile and enter data while speaking on the radio or telephone. Operate a computer terminal with speed and accuracy. Perform clerical duties such as filing and typing records and reports. Maintain confidentiality and work with discretion. Complete work independently with many interruptions. Operate a computer terminal and computer using word processing, spreadsheet and other business software. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Work rotating shifts including a variety of holiday, evening and weekend hours. May be required to work extended hours as requested or in emergency situations. Maintain a safe working environment.

Graduation from high school, G.E.D. equivalent, or higher. One (1) year of experience in dispatching in a police or security environment. One (1) year of general clerical experience. District will require the completion of a P.O.S.T. approved Dispatcher Course with the six-month probationary period as a condition of continued employment.

A valid Driver License and evidence of automobile insurability is required. Bilingual in Spanish is desirable. Incumbents must wear District assigned attire provided by the District. Final candidates will undergo a comprehensive background investigation to verify personal history including, but not limited to: financial responsibility, criminal history, drug use, driving record and supplemental application materials. The review of suitability for employment will also include an examination by a licensed psychologist, and a medical examination.

Sitting and operating a keyboard to enter data into a computer terminal for extended periods of time. Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone. Vision needed to read a variety of reports and materials. Wearing headsets and working in a closely situated area is required. Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this class with reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis and depends, in part, on the specific requirements for the job, the limitations related to disability and the ability of the hiring department to accommodate the limitation.

The Personnel Commission reserves the right to change, alter, cancel, add or modify examination parts, as well as weights and dates. All employment offers are conditional, based upon the successful completion of the following: Fingerprint/background clearance, medical examination by a District approved physician, and a test for tuberculosis.