Civilian Police Dispatcher

Department: Police
Location: 20 Elm St., Fitchburg, MA
Supervisor: Technical Services Commander

Schedule

• Full-Time, 40 hours/week
• Opportunities for overtime
• Rotating shifts, 24/7 coverage
• Must be on-call with one-hour notification

Pay

$45,011 - $55,994 annually

Responsibilities

• Receive and process all oral and written communications from the public and law enforcement personnel at Police Headquarters.
• Primary responsibility for initial deployment of law enforcement personnel and equipment.
• Receive and transmit information accurately and rapidly via communications equipment.
• Maintain accurate records.
• Receive, record, and process all incoming oral communications through the dispatch system; process initial complaint inquiries via telephone or in person.
• Dispatch personnel according to department regulations and priorities; report out-of-service police vehicles to the Officer-In-Charge (OIC).
• Respond to complaints respectfully, calmly, clearly, and courteously.
• Utilize established emergency procedures; activate and dispatch personnel immediately to the field when required.
• Maintain two-way communications with dispatched personnel; periodically announce FCC-issued call letters.
• Maintain equipment, especially emergency call lines; immediately report malfunctions to OIC.
• Be knowledgeable of local geography (streets, buildings, parks, housing projects) to maximize dispatch accuracy and speed.
• Possess thorough knowledge of Police Department procedures related to radios and communications equipment.
• Type and process forms, complaints, and reports as appropriate.
• Preserve privileged and confidential communications.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum age: 18 years.
• High School Diploma or GED required; higher education preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred; prior dispatcher experience (Police/Fire/EMS) a plus.
• Available to work rotating shifts and be on-call as required.
• Typing/word processing average of 25 WPM; computer literate; may be required to pass a typing test.
• Ability to perform independently, exercise initiative and sound judgment; communicate clearly and concisely in oral and written form; accurate spelling and message-taking.
• Ability to think and act promptly in emergencies while remaining calm; read, interpret, and follow oral and written instructions; prioritize emergency calls.
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with department personnel and the public; remain at a dispatch console for long periods; maintain high ethical standards.
• Must pass an audio-based assessment exam with a minimum score of 70%.
• Demonstrate required skills and complete a six-month probationary period.
• Must successfully complete pre-employment physical, drug screening, and background check.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus.