Public Safety Dispatcher

About the role

HCTRA Dispatchers are responsible for answering incoming emergency and non-emergency phone calls made to the Dispatch Center and dispatches appropriate resources (Law Enforcement or Incident Response Units) via two-way radio.

Dispatchers coordinate with Law Enforcement and Incident Response Units to ensure that every active incident has all the appropriate resources required (Fire/EMS, Maintenance, Wreckers, etc.).

Dispatchers monitor roadway cameras from around the Toll Road and notifies the public of any active incidents that may affect traffic.

Responsibilities

• Dispatches and monitors radio for Law Enforcement and the Incident Response Team, which includes relaying calls for service, receiving incoming radio request from units, and other communications related to tollway operations.
• Handles incoming phone calls for emergency and non-emergency situations and enter calls into our CAD system.
• Maintains field unit status at all times to ensure safety of the officers performing activities including working accidents, hazardous incidents, fire, traffic control, pursuits, etc.
• Coordinates with Law Enforcement, Incident Response Units, and any additional resources to respond to active incidents.
• Monitors roadway cameras for any incidents affecting traffic.
• Tracks, electronically compiles, and forwards data where there is damage to County property and/or possible liability to Harris County.
• Notifies the public of active incidents affecting traffic, construction, and lane closures.
• Handles incoming security alarms from HCTRA facilities and dispatch appropriate resources.

Requirements

High school diploma or its equivalent from an accredited institution.

Must have Basic TCOLE certification prior to as a Dispatcher.

Minimum one year of prior experience as a Dispatcher.

NIMS 100, 200, 700, and 800.

Skills

• Strong attention to detail.
• Knowledge of the rules of grammar and punctuation.
• Knowledge of telephone etiquette.
• Effective communication skills.
• Ability to prepare detailed spreadsheets.
• Ability to prepare business correspondence.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively.
• Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to handle high stress situations.
• Ability to type 45 words per minute.
• Ability to maintain good working relationships.

Physical Demands

Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.

Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.

Schedule

The dispatch center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This is a full time position that may work days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.

Work Environment

This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

A normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature, and air conditions is provided.