About This Role
Being an Emergency Dispatcher is a critical link between the public and emergency services, responsible for receiving and prioritizing calls, dispatching emergency personnel, and providing life-saving instructions. The role requires maintaining a calm, professional demeanor under pressure and ensuring effective coordination and communication to promote public safety and responder safety.
Responsibilities
- Answer, evaluate, and prioritize emergency and non-emergency calls for service
- Provide pre-arrival instructions, including CPR, choking assistance, and other emergency medical guidance
- Dispatch appropriate emergency responders (law enforcement, fire, medical) using radio systems and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software
- Monitor the status of field units and ensure responder safety through regular communication and updates
- Operate a multi-line telephone system, radios, and various computer systems simultaneously
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of all communications and calls for service
- Handle high-stress situations calmly and effectively, making rapid and sound decisions based on protocols
- Assist with the coordination of mutual aid and inter-agency communication when necessary
- Communicate with the public in a courteous, professional, and empathetic manner
- Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive information in accordance with department policy and applicable laws
- Participate in training programs and maintain certifications, such as CPR, TIME system, and any state or department required training/certificates
- Enter and maintain warrants, restraining orders, stolen property, missing subjects, and other entries in state and national databases
Requirements
- High school graduation or GED equivalent
- Typing speed of at least 35–45 WPM
- Strong verbal communication skills and ability to multitask
- Ability to work in a 24/7 environment, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime
- Must pass background check, drug screening, and other pre-employment assessments
- Ability to work semi-independently and react quickly, efficiently, and calmly in emergency situations
- Ability to efficiently operate various radio emergency frequencies and record required data into computer systems
- Proficiency in typing, note-taking, and other miscellaneous office procedures
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and good mathematical skills
- Sound decision-making ability based on training and experience
- Ability to accurately read a map and give clear directions; familiarity with the City and County
- Knowledge of FCC regulations covering radio and telephone equipment
- Knowledge of law enforcement terminology, codes, and department computer software
- General knowledge of City/County ordinances and functions of all county departments
- Working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office Suite
- Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use
- Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
Nice to have:
- Previous experience in emergency communications or public safety dispatch
- Experience with CAD systems and radio dispatch consoles
Important Details
- Schedule: Non-Exempt, 40 hours per week
- Work environment: Exposure to graphic or disturbing calls related to medical emergencies, crimes, and accidents. Includes shift work, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays. The employee regularly works in a climate-controlled building where noise levels range from quiet to moderately loud.
About the Company
The Sheriff Department is responsible for public safety and officer responder safety.