911 Communications Dispatcher I/II (Extra Help / Limited Term)

San Mateo County Public Safety Communications is accepting applications for the position of 911 Communications Dispatcher I/II (Extra Help / Limited Term) . The Department San Mateo County Public Safety Communications (PSC) is the largest dispatch center in the county and the only Tri‑Community (Police, Fire, Medical) Center. Located in Redwood City, PSC is a stand‑alone department with a civilian command structure, including a Director, Deputy Director and several managers. PSC emphasizes customer service, employee well‑being, and excellence. We provide tools and ongoing training for professional and personal success, fostering a team environment with open communication. Located in Silicon Valley, we prioritize innovation and cutting‑edge 911 technology. PSC is committed to employee well‑being, offering mental health initiatives, therapy animals, an on‑site gym, a quiet room, and a full kitchen. We are the first department in the county to employ a full‑time Wellbeing and Equity Coordinator and involve mental health professionals in departmental decisions. Learn more here: PSC is looking for experienced Public Safety Dispatchers to join our team for a 6‑month assignment, which may be extended. The Ideal Candidate 2+ years of Public Safety Dispatching Experience with Law, Fire, and/or EMS. Possess CA POST Basic Dispatcher Certificate. Knowledge of Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) operation; previous experience with Versaterm is highly desired. Knowledge of basic computer use in a business office and Communications Center environment. Ability to operate various types of communications equipment, including public safety telephones, two‑way radio systems, data terminals, and other related technologies. Ability to utilize available resources. International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (EMD) certification is highly desired. Schedule Once selected, the Department will coordinate with the successful candidate to set a consistent weekly or bi‑weekly schedule based on the candidate’s availability. NOTE: The successful incumbent must be willing to work night shift hours, and/or weekend shifts. NOTE: This is an Extra Help position, not Relief or Per Diem. Previous Dispatch experience is highly desired. Job Duties Receive business or emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, medical, and other public service agencies. Screen information to determine the nature of the call, perform call classification, determine priority and jurisdiction, and document activity. Screen and prioritize telephone workload. Remain cognizant of workloads and specific system status. Provide support and assistance to the team during day‑to‑day operations and critical or large‑scale incidents. Assist in the coordination of mutual aid incidents. Develop and foster a positive working rapport with direct and indirect customers, the public, and co‑workers. Testify in court regarding legal proceedings related to dispatch call(s) received. Prepare and submit various reports such as incident reports. Develop and maintain working knowledge of highways, streets, buildings, and major points of interest in the County and adjacent areas. Remain current on procedures for manual dispatch operations and Communications Center evacuation. Provide off‑hours services as required. Perform related duties as assigned. Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is a minimum of one year of experience receiving and processing calls while involved in multiple tasks simultaneously. Knowledge of English language, spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Customer service and interpersonal communications principles. Computer operation and use in office and Communications Center environments. Basic principles in communicating by means of face‑to‑face contact, telephone, and/or data terminals. Various resources within the County to provide referrals to the public and public safety agencies. Skill / Ability Speak, read, and write English clearly. Communicate clearly and concisely, in English, both orally and in writing. Comprehend, interpret, relay, and document information via telephone, computer software/data terminals, or other related technology. Screen and interpret general data and filter relevant information. Learn and operate Computer‑Aided Dispatch (CAD) Systems and other related technology. Read and interpret various mapping devices and relay pertinent information. Work under pressure, exercising good judgment and common sense while making sound decisions in emergency situations. Perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Listen, understand, and relay information via telephone and in person. Remain calm and controlled under stressful periods while projecting a professional demeanor. Establish and maintain positive and courteous working relationships with customers, the community, and co‑workers. Work with the Communications Center team while maintaining assigned job responsibilities and duties. Anticipate and adapt to fluctuating workloads in the Communications Center. Communicate and receive constructive feedback and opinions to effect change. Access and refer to information using available resources. Read, interpret, understand, and follow written and oral instructions and/or information. Remain seated for long periods of time. Read and interpret text/data on electronic screens, computer printouts, and a variety of maps. Remain focused and be able to hear in a noisy environment while communicating via telephone or face‑to‑face. Other Requirements Successfully complete a pre‑employment medical examination and be subject to polygraph testing. Follow strict drug use standards and guidelines. Be willing to work night shift hours, and/or weekend shifts. Equal Opportunity Employer San Mateo County is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. The County of San Mateo seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. All applicants will receive a fair and equal chance to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr County of San Mateo