Police Dispatcher

This is a fast paced, highly technical work environment involving automated systems pertaining to law enforcement public safety communications. Work requires the ability to comprehend and apply law enforcement and public safety operation procedures, which is learned through extensive training that consists of several phases of classroom and on-the-job training. Communication with the public and First Responders require the ability to analyze situations and determine the effective course of action; adjust quickly to changing situations while assessing time and sensitive information; perform several tasks at the same time and assign appropriate priorities, signals, and codes to incoming calls for services while monitoring multiple frequencies and viewing multiple computer/camera screens. Must have the ability to maintain an efficient and calm demeanor in handling adverse or stressful situations for an extended period of time in a high-volume public safety work environment. Work requires sitting for prolonged periods of time wearing a headset, which restricts movement in the work area. Work is performed under general supervision where the dispatcher works under clearly defined procedures but has latitude to set priorities based on the events that are occurring at the time. Hours of operation are 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The employee is primarily scheduled for shift work hours. Work periods may have permanent or rotating days off, frequently requiring the employee to work holidays, weekends, evenings, and nights. The employee is subject to work overtime, being held over or called back to work for disasters, local emergencies, or special events. Requires frequent contact with the public, police and emergency service providers, and occasional contact with other federal, state, and local government agencies. Some of these contacts may require considerable skill in diplomacy, tact, and/or discretion.