PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER I

911 Communications Dispatcher

The role of a 911 Communications dispatcher is highly specialized, requiring specific expertise, skills, and training to excel. As the initial point of contact for individuals facing emergencies, the dispatcher manages critical situations involving threats to life and property, necessitating immediate coordination with police, fire, or medical services.

This position operates in a high-intensity environment that demands swift and accurate decision-making. Dispatchers manage both emergency (911) and non-emergency calls, handle calls for service (CFS), and provide precise real-time information to callers. Strong multitasking abilities are essential for effectively dispatching emergency responders to appropriate locations.

Additionally, dispatchers operate multi-channel emergency radio systems, adhere to established protocols when transmitting information, and monitor public safety units. They also perform data entry into ACIC/NCIC systems and utilize various communication tools, including 911 emergency equipment and TDD/TTY devices.

In essence, the role of a 911 Communications dispatcher involves critical duties where precise coordination and effective communication are paramount. If you have the skills and dedication to excel in this demanding yet rewarding role, we encourage you to apply today.

Safety Sensitive Position: This position is designated as safety/security sensitive and is subject to pre-employment, reasonable suspicion and random drug and alcohol screening

Summary: Public Safety Dispatchers operate phone and radio communications equipment to provide 9-1-1 emergency services and non-emergency assistance for ten law enforcement, twenty fire and six ambulance services in Benton County. They are responsible for processing incoming calls, providing pre-arrival instructions to callers, and dispatching the appropriate responding agencies. Personnel work shifts that include working nights, weekends, holidays and are subject to change in order to meet the needs of the Communications Center and its operational needs. Regular, reliable attendance, managing multiple duties and responsibilities simultaneously, being a team player in a challenging, high-stress work environment, and getting along well with others are essential elements of this position. Other duties may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Individuals must be flexible to work weekends, holidays, and all shifts. Individuals must submit to and pass a drug screen and have no disqualifying criminal history. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. High school diploma or GED
2. Ability to obtain ACIC (Arkansas Crime Information Center) Basic and Advanced Certifications within six (6) months of hire date.
3. Ability to meet all NIMS (National Incident Management System) training requirements within six (6) months of employment.
4. Ability to obtain Emergency Telecommunicator (ETC), Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) certifications within six (6) months of hire.
5. United States citizen; not less than 18 years of age; must not have felony convictions
6. Driver license preferred; ability to travel to training is required.
7. Must pass pre-employment job testing.
8. Effectively communicate with others orally and in writing.
9. Ability to perform duties in high stress and challenging environment.
10. Must be proficient in the use of a computer, multi-line telephone and other related software programs. Must be able to effectively operate standard office equipment
11. Position requires the ability to speak clearly and be understood on radio systems, as well as understand what is being said by others on the radio systems.
12. While performing the functions of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; stand, walk and sit; use hands to feel and handle; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required to accomplish computer and office work.
13. Public Safety communications knowledge or experience is preferred, but not required.

Employee Benefits Overview: Benefits are an important part of the overall compensation package. We are pleased to offer a comprehensive array of valuable benefits.

County Paid Insurance BenefitsEmployee MedicalBasic life and ADD InsuranceLong‑term disability insuranceAccess to voluntary benefits, including:Medical (Spouse/Children)Dental, and Vision coverageSupplemental life insuranceShort‑term disabilityCritical Illness coverageAccident insuranceHospital indemnity plansView the Benefits Guide for more information - Retirement & Financial SecurityParticipation in the Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System (APERS) pension programVoluntary Nationwide Deferred Compensation 457(b) Retirement plan

Time Off & Work–Life Balance11 Paid Holidays annuallyPaid Sick Leave (up to 12 working days per year)Paid Vacation Leave (up to 10 working days per year)Paid Personal Day annually