Dispatcher

Job Summary

This is a non-exempt position that reports to the Dispatch Supervisor and the Assistant Supervisor/Trainer. This position receives and dispatches routine and emergency telephone calls and radio communications from and to citizens, law enforcement, ambulance, fire and rescue, and other public safety agencies.

Essential Functions

Dispatch Activities

• Receives calls from the public requesting information or assistance. Answers all 911, emergency and non-emergency telephone calls that ring into the Communications Center (including traditional phone calls, Telecommunication Device for the Deaf, alarm companies/interpreters, text and other media calls as technology allows).
• Greets walk-ins requesting information or assistance.
• Monitors and transmits on multiple radio frequencies. Dispatches the appropriate responders (law enforcement, ambulance, fire and rescue) in response to requests, assuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Makes entries and monitors the Computer Aided Dispatching (CAD) system, assuring accuracy of the log. Provides information to responders following Standard Operating Guidelines and as requested.
• Maintains constant awareness of the public safety activities and events that are occurring in our jurisdiction.
• Maintains an awareness of the general location of all scheduled law enforcement, ambulance and fire personnel. Enters this information into the (CAD) system.
• Monitors progress on incidents, contacts other agencies, and coordinates services as needed.
• Follows all Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) regulations.
• Maintains confidentiality with information that is accessed via Criminal Justice Information Systems, and with knowledge that is specific to our position.
• Assists officers on calls for service and traffic stops by running inquiries through MULES, NCIC, and Department of Revenue (DOR).
• Runs criminal histories, makes entries into MULES, develops source documents and distributes the information to appropriate agencies. Clears entries as appropriate.
• Monitors MULES for hit confirmations and messages that require response.
• Maintains the message and hit file, assuring accuracy.
• Knows the process and requirements for entry and activation of missing people (endangered alerts, silver, Amber).
• Provides call-outs to the Juvenile Office, Division of Family Services, Street and Water Departments, MoDot, utility companies, Animal Control, Conservation, Tow Companies and other agencies and resources as requested by public safety personnel/first responders.
• Maintains an awareness of any hazardous weather and advises senior personnel, keeping them abreast of developments. Activates weather checklist, sirens and cable alert system per Standard Operating Guidelines.
• Participates in monthly continuing education, as well as trainings and recertification as assigned.
• Assists with training new dispatchers when assigned.
• Performs clean-up and follow-up activities as needed to restore a clean and orderly working environment.

Liaison and Public Relations Activities

• Communicates with the public in a wide variety of emergency and non-emergency situations.
• Greets walk-ins and callers, provides information and answers questions or directs to appropriate personnel.
• Provides talks and presentations to community groups as requested.

Clerical Activities

• Advises superior when new forms or supplies are in need of replenishment.
• Takes phone messages for officers on and off duty.
• Assists with special projects assigned by supervisor.
• Attends dispatcher meetings.
• Conducts checks, assuring summons have been entered.
• Conducts background checks for pre-employment, housing applicants, and firearms release from evidence.
• Maintains log for patrol-car gas usage and the sign-out and sign-in of the firing range key.
• Updates business directory in CAD, as well as all resources used by dispatchers such as apartment guide, call-out list, court dates, employee contact phone list, and pipeline contacts.
• Assists with maintenance of records, reports, and tickets, maintains and files original court warrants.
• Advises 911 supervisor of any incorrect 911 information for correction.
• Maintains house and special watch list.
• Maintains Alert file, including officer safety issues and verbal warnings when requested by officers.

Minimum Qualifications

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Valid Driver's License.
• U.S. Citizen with no felony convictions.

The below certifications can be earned during on the job training.

• 40 basic Communication course.
• MULES certification, NIMS ICS 100, 700.
• Emergency Medical Dispatch certification.
• 911 state/national certification as required by MODPS.
• Continued education to maintain certification.

REQUIRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or G.E.D.

PREFERRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Six to twelve months related experience or training; Associate's degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Supplemental Information

WORKING CONDITIONS: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Duties are generally performed in an office setting with a controlled environment. There are times when the work environment is chaotic with multiple situations occurring at one time. Position requires shift work with some overtime required as needed. This position is subject to being on call or called out during emergency situations. This position will work all shifts including overnights, weekends and holidays.

This position is not eligible for benefits.