Dispatch Communications Specialist

Essential Job Functions

• Operates fixed base communications equipment including the 911 system.
• Answers incoming emergency and non-emergency calls by telephone and radio; projects positive support of the department and county organizations at all times.
• Interviews callers and gathers details on complaints; relays pertinent information to officers in a factual and concise manner; provides information and assistance to the public.
• Communicates with caller to obtain information regarding seriousness of incident and if a perpetrator is armed and dangerous until first responders arrive on the scene, providing instruction and assurance to maintain as calm a situation as possible.
• Prioritizes calls for service and determines appropriate personnel to respond; dispatches calls for service to available officers, by radio and pager.
• Logs messages transmitted and received.
• Typifies emergency assistance calls into the computer aided dispatch (CAD) incident logs; inputs and updates information into the NCIC computer system.
• Enters call history into database including date, time, caller name, type of incident, who call was referred to, arrival time on scene, and other details.
• Maintains status and awareness of Sheriff's patrol units and monitors alarms; tracks the location and activities of all officers on duty.
• Provides detailed call information to officers as needed; monitors message traffic and relays important information to officers.
• Notifies key County personnel on critical incidents; follows all Department policies and procedures to assure that officer safety is the top priority.
• Composes and sends teletypes to other agencies, for securing and sharing information about criminal histories and movements, warrants, incidents, information requests and resource information; obtains information in order to transport accused individuals across state lines.
• Checks records for stolen vehicles, missing persons, addresses, driver's licenses, criminal histories, etc.
• Performs inquiries and criminal history checks for officers through National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
• Reports equipment malfunctions to the proper authority; maintains a current record of the location and availability of key personnel and emergency equipment.
• Performs various clerical tasks.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations governing the dispatch process and use of dispatch equipment.
• Knowledge of County roads and routes.
• Knowledge of proper two-way radio and telephonic communication techniques and codes.
• Skill in the use of typewriter and computer keyboard.
• Skill in maintaining accurate and timely documentation and records.
• Skill in effectively communicating verbally and in writing.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public.

Desirable Qualifications

• A High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Ability to type thirty five WPM.
• Successful completion of twenty-four hours emergency medical dispatch training and eight weeks of in-service training.

Employee Benefits

• Navajo County offers a comprehensive employee benefits package to regular employees working 40 Hours Per Week That Includes (Regular Part Time employees working 30 – 39 hours a week receive some benefits on a pro-rated basis. Part Time employees working less than 30 hours a week and temporary employees do not receive benefits).

Required Question

• Do you have a current AZ Drivers License?
• Do you have a high school diploma or G.E.D.?
• Can you pass a polygraph or similar test?
• Have you used the following illegal drugs in the past 12 months? Marijuana, Hashish, Cocaine/Crack, Methamphetamine/Speed, Heroin, Opium, Morphine, LSD/Acid, Peyote, Mescaline, Spice, or Steroids. If so please list which drug(s) and the last date of usage.