Dispatcher I

Responsibilities

• Under direct supervision, receives reports of smoke management, wildfires, law enforcement requests, storm damage, and other emergency and non-emergency incidents.
• Appropriately dispatches fire suppression personnel through the use of a computer-aided dispatch system, two-way radio, and telephone.
• Assumes Coastal and Piedmont region dispatch/call-taking responsibilities.
• Receives reports of fires, law enforcement needs, storm damage, and other emergency incidents from the public, local fire departments, 911 systems, forestry pilots, and other safety officers.
• Processes, records, and disseminates incident information.
• Operates computer-aided dispatch system to dispatch personnel to fire locations.
• Maintains accurate records of all dispatched personnel and their locations.
• Provides two-way radio contact between firefighters, field personnel, and the Dispatch Center.
• Uses computer-aided dispatch system to take smoke management information to ensure burner is within smoke management guidelines; processes and records this information.
• Performs dispatch and other related duties on daily task lists as assigned in support of the agency's mission and initiatives.
• Performs other duties in support of the Forestry Commission's mission and strategic plan.

Requirements

• High school diploma and entry-level work experience with voice communication systems or switchboard exchange operations.
• Must be able to type 35 WPM and have basic computer proficiency.
• Criminal background check and drug and alcohol test are required.
• Completion of Introduction to the National Incident Management System (IS-700) within first year of employment.
• Ability to learn to operate a computer-aided dispatch system, two-way radio, and telephone communication equipment.
• Basic knowledge of Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules and regulations concerning two-way radio operations.
• Active listener with strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to speak clearly and concisely; must be able to interpret written instructions, policies, and materials used in performing dispatching duties.
• Must react quickly, accurately, and calmly in a stressful environment.

Additional Information

This position works 39 hours per week during night shift, 4 days of working 9.75 hours per day (8:30 PM–7:15 AM) on a rotating work schedule to include weekends and holidays. Position is located in an office environment.

• Must be able to remain stationary for long periods of time while answering calls.
• Occasionally moves about the work area to access file cabinets, office machinery, and other job-related equipment.
• Must be able to lift 25 lbs., bend, and squat.

This position is designated as safety sensitive and essential. Position requires the employee to be subject to random, post incident/accident, reasonable suspicion, and rehabilitation monitoring and drug and alcohol testing consistent with SCFC Drug-Free Workplace Policy and Procedure.