Dispatcher

Summary

The incumbent performs all functions associated with radio net control necessary to transmit and receive law enforcement communications traffic. Operates the State, Tribal and Federal radio network control at the Dispatch Center. Answers and disseminates information received through regular phone systems and two-way radio. Interviews callers ascertaining the nature of the call and providing information is available. Takes complaints and refers to appropriate authorities. Records all radio and telephone communication transactions on appropriate control log. Serves as a Central Receiving and dispatching officer for the Police Department, and on official Citizen's information and complaint center. Maintains logs and files of complaints, police actions and reports. Operates the law enforcement Crime Reporting Information System (CRIS) which is a computerized network consisting of all law enforcement statistical data. Operates the NCIC criminal justice computer system. Serves as the Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC), responsible for filing teletype documents in appropriate subject files.

Essential Duties and/or Responsibilities

• Supervises and receives in-coming and out-going calls from the general public.
• Maintains an accurate daily record of in-coming and out-going calls via telephone or short wave dispatching equipment.
• Receives and classifies telephone messages at communications office and routes messages for transmission to Police Officers.
• Receives and logs complaints from public concerning crimes and police emergencies, broadcast order to police radio units in vicinity to investigate complaints, and relays instructions or questions from remote units.
• In some instances, coordinates all police, fire, ambulance and other emergency requests, relaying instructions to unit concerned.
• May transmit or receive messages between various tribal organizations, BIA, or other Law Enforcement agencies.
• Receives and logs in-coming fire calls, questions caller as to location and disposition of emergency.
• Relays messages from scene of fire, police emergency, such as requests for additional help or medical assistance.
• Test various communication systems and reports malfunctions to supervisor.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Qualification Requirements

• General Knowledge of the Privacy Act and the Confidentiality of records.
• Excellent Communication skills.
• General knowledge or skills in Clerical or Office procedures.
• Computer Literacy.

Education and/or Experience

• High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Applicant must have at least six (6) months previous experience in field.

Languages Skills

• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Ability to write simple correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small groups situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, i.e., directives, orders, policies, and operational descriptions.
• Ability to write concise reports.
• Ability to communicate with effectively in stressful situations.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Must possess approved certification in radio dispatching or six (6) months' previous experience as a dispatcher or Police Officer.
• Must have a valid driver license.
• Must have an automobile.
• Possess or pass test for valid standard first aid certification.

Physical Demands

• Physically able to work nights, days, weekends-various-shifts.
• Ability to work in very stressful situation which involves unusual mental and nervous pressures.
• Applicant must take and pass a physical examination on an annual basis.
• Applicant is subject to drug testing.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Applicant must be able to pass a personal background check.
• Must have a telephone or able to obtain the service.
• Possess above average verbal skills and remain calm when under intense, stressful situations.
• Ability to perform duties under close or minimum supervision.

Other

• The employee is responsible for being drug-free, for demonstrating knowledge of agency drug abuse policy and procedures. Must be aware of symptoms and signs of drug abuse and change in behavior, reports appearances of unusual action to responsible official.
• The employee is under the supervision of the Chief of Police, but works under immediate leadership of the Lead Dispatcher. The Chief of Police or leader provides continuing close supervision by indicating what is to be done, specifying limitations, and prioritizing tasks. The supervisor provides additional, specific instructions for new or unusual tasks. The incumbent carries out recurring assignment independently but refer problems and life threatening situations not covered by instructions to a supervisor for final decision on other assistance. Supervisor ensure that the work and methods used are accurate and fully in compliance with instructions and established procedures, by closely reviewing work daily.
• Work involves the protection of life and civil rights of individuals, therefore, incumbent must exercise discretion in dealing with sensitive matters.