Dispatch Specialist

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit: Oakland County Benefits.

Pay

Salary range: $50,116 – $77,292.

Hiring Timeline

The anticipated hiring timeline for this position is early January, aligning with the next scheduled training class.

Responsibilities

• Receive and process calls for police, fire, ambulance, 9‑1‑1, and general emergency services.
• Dispatch the appropriate personnel or refer callers to the correct agency.
• Provide pre‑arrival and post‑dispatch instructions during medical, fire, or law‑enforcement emergencies.
• Multi‑task by gathering essential caller and location details while keeping communication clear under pressure.
• Use multiple computer systems and equipment to enter and retrieve critical information.
• Respond to officer requests for information such as safety alerts, criminal history, driving records, and prior contacts.
• Operate and maintain certification for law‑enforcement information systems.

Why You’ll Love It

• Make a real difference knowing every call you answer could save a life or protect your community.
• Dynamic, fast‑paced environment where each shift brings new challenges.
• Work closely with dedicated law‑enforcement, fire, and EMS professionals.
• Grow your skills with specialized communication systems and emergency protocols.
• Serve the public as part of an essential, respected team that operates around the clock to keep Oakland County safe.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduated from high school or have a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development Test.
• One of the following:
  • Six (6) months full‑time work experience in a 9‑1‑1 call center, responding to emergency situations (fire, ambulance, law‑enforcement, or hospital), or any military experience.
  • One (1) year full‑time work experience in a high‑volume customer‑facing hospitality service industry (e.g., hotel desk, waitstaff, food service).
  • Completed one (1) year of college from an accredited institution in any major, or possess two current certifications in Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Fire Dispatch, or Emergency Police Dispatch.
• No convictions of a violation of criminal law (excluding traffic, conservation, and liquor laws).
• Normal or corrected hearing in each ear and normal color vision.
• Union: BU10 – Deputy Sheriff Association: Law Enforcement (OCDSA), if applicable.

Special Requirements

• Background investigation covering employment, education, residence, criminal, military, and other personal records.
• Any convictions for moving or non‑moving traffic violations, accidents, or other laws will be reviewed by the Sheriff’s Office.
• Convictions under the Domestic Violence Statute are disqualifying.
• Psychological examination; results considered in the hiring decision.
• Successful completion and maintenance of required training certifications:
  • State of Michigan Public Safety / Emergency Telecommunicator Course
  • L.E.I.N. operator certification
  • EMD / EFD / EPD protocols
  • CPR / First Aid
  • Security Awareness
  • Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Communications Training Program
  • Any additional training and continuing education deemed necessary.

Essential Mental & Physical Requirements

• Ability to communicate accurately and convey information clearly.
• Ability to prepare reports, analyze data, and maintain focus for long periods.
• Ability to work in an enclosed environment and remain stationary—sitting or standing—for extended periods.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a typical emergency dispatch center environment, involving critical and high‑stress situations.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

• Present coded written or oral information in a clear, concise, and accurate manner.
• Proficient use of computers; ability to receive a call while processing it.
• Knowledge of County streets and highways; ability to determine directions from verbal descriptions.
• Familiarity with modern office practices, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and make routine decisions in accordance with departmental policies.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Sheriff’s Office personnel and the public.
• Recognize and correct departures from departmental practices and procedures.
• Some knowledge of and ability to operate the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) Teletype machine.
• Familiar with current word processing, spreadsheet, database, email, and Internet software.