PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER

Job Title

This is a non-exempt position which requires telecommunications work in the operation of a radio system for the direction of and communication with police and fire units for the Police Department.

Job Description

Operates a multi-line telephone and determines the nature of both 911 and non-emergency calls.

Oversees the receiving, prioritizing, and dispatching of 911 and non-emergency telephone calls through police and fire communications system.

Manages the reception and transmission of information by telephone, radio, and computer in a variety of related duties.

Determines the nature and priority of calls, unit availability, and the number of units necessary for initial response.

Dispatches police and fire vehicles/personnel to emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance.

Determines appropriate apparatus needed to be dispatched for each call.

Monitors radio frequencies and maintains open contact with officers in order to provide administrative support as needed.

Alerts various other agencies (hospitals, air rescue, etc.) as needed regarding the status of emergency transport. Monitors department building security and jails via cameras.

Enters critical information into the Florida Crime Information Center/National Crime Information Center (FCIC/NCIC) systems for the dissemination of information on vehicle registrations, wanted persons, warrants, endangered runaways, probation/parole, early inmate releases, violent offenders, sexual offenders, predators, terrorists, and protection or restraining orders.

Researches the status of guns, vehicles, parts, boats and other items to determine if stolen and notifies the appropriate agency of the results of research.

Calls for tow trucks and requests specialty unit and outside agency back up as needed.

Identifies emergency or potential crisis situations and adjusts dialogue or activities accordingly and attempts to calm frantic or fearful callers.

Notifies appropriate authorities of missing children information.

Notifies hospitals and emergency medical staff of incoming patient information.

Operates teletype machine to access National and Florida crime information centers pursuant to State standards.

Enters information from callers into Computer-Assisted Dispatch system (CAD) and/or prepares complaint cards.

Prepares comprehensive reports and maintains accurate records.

Performs related work as required and as directed.

Typical Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of the principles, techniques, and equipment used in public safety communications.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of modern public safety operations.

Knowledge of the rules and regulations of federal, state, county, city and inter-departments and of all regulations applicable to communications.

Knowledge of the National and Florida Crime Centers Systems, procedures, and methods of accessing and inputting data.

Knowledge of two-way radio communication procedures and radio call signals and their meanings.

Knowledge of mapping and computers.

Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.

Skilled in written and verbal communication.

Skilled in customer service.

Skilled in computer literacy with emphasis on Microsoft Office programs.

Ability to operate various communications equipment.

Ability to communicate effectively using radio terminology with police and other safety units.

Ability to work a flexible work schedule to meet the needs of the city.

Ability to read and understand police agency teletype codes and abbreviations.

Ability to establish proper priorities during incidents of high volume.

Ability to remain composed under pressure of numerous calls and emergency situations.

Ability to adhere to tight schedules while maintaining work quality.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with department officials, other municipal employees, professional groups, and the general public in order to ensure efficient operations.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent; supplemented by a minimum of 3 years of experience in public safety dispatch; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid State of Florida driver's license.

Department of Health 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator certification.

Documents Required to Apply: (Applications, which do not include documents specified below, will not be processed )

Applicant Background Information Form with notarized signature. Download and complete form here.

Hiring Process

The hiring process may take up to 6 months. If you fail any part of the hiring process, you can reapply after 1 year.

Oral Board Interview: Application reviewed and meets minimum experience with demonstrated employment history.

Computer based skills testing: Assesses selective attention, speech recognition, written comprehension, and critical thinking.

CVSA Examination (Polygraph): Includes questions about your past criminal activity and drug use.

Background Investigation: Criminal history, employment, military service records, education, credit, social media and associations.

Psychological Evaluation: Assesses mental and emotional suitability.

Medical Examination: Assesses your ability to perform the job.

Drug Testing: All applicants will be tested for drugs and alcohol. * Not applicable to all applicants

Work Environment

Work is performed in a public safety communications office environment. This is a designated "Response" classification in the City's Emergency Operations Plan and will require the employee occupying this position to work for declared emergencies. Attendance at National Incident Management System (NIMS) training at the appropriate level is mandatory.