JOB
The Benton County Sheriff's Office Is Currently Accepting Applications for the Position of Public Safety Dispatcher.NOTE: The ideal candidate for this position will be an individual with an understanding of the work of a Public Safety Dispatcher, preferred knowledge of laws, legal codes, and government regulations, and knowledge of the geographical area, including the names of highways and roads, and a proven aptitude for calmness, patience and politeness even in difficult situations. Candidates with superb customer service skills, good judgement skills and the ability to make decisions quickly, those with excellent speaking and writing skills, problem-solving and communication skills are strongly encouraged to apply. Advanced placement on the Benton County pay scale is available for individuals with previous full-time dispatching experience. The successful applicant's previous experience will be evaluated with pay scale placement occurring at the discretion of the Sheriff.REQUIRED VIDEO TESTING (ECOMM Dispatcher Exam): To be considered for this position, applicants meeting minimum qualifications will need to pass a video test. The video testing session date is TENTATIVELY set for THURSDAY, JUNE 6th, at 9 AM. Those candidates who meet the minimum qualifications should be prepared to attend. More information will be provided at a later date via e-mail. Please watch your e-mail. A practice test is available at the applicant's expense at www.ErgoPracticeTest.com.IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS: In-Person Interviews Are TENTATIVELY SET FOR MONDAY, JUNE 17th, 2024, TIMES ARE TBD.Position SummaryProvide emergent and non-emergent dispatch center services for Benton County.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Duties and ResponsibilitiesEssential FunctionsA. Receives, classifies, and prioritizes incoming calls and texts to 911; provides information, referrals and/or dispatches the appropriate response in a timely manner.B. Monitors the progress of call responders to ensure safety.C. Provides communication support to deputies and law enforcement agencies including computer checks, hit confirmation, work related telephone calls, arranging tow trucks and support from other civilian agencies.D. Operates a variety of public safety communications equipment including 9-1-1 telephone equipment, computer aided dispatch and records keeping systems, and multi-channel radio system.E. Maintains contact with all units on assignment; maintains status and location of field units; monitors multiple radio frequencies; and relays emergency and non-emergency information to public safety personnel in the field.F. Inquires, interprets, verifies, receives, and disseminates information from national, state, and local law enforcement computer networks.G. Responsible for compliance with the Data Practices Act and other related laws and regulations in the Communications Center.H. Conducts emergency service tests.I. Communicates disaster information and weather warnings to the appropriate personnel and agencies.J. Performs data entry into the state and national computer network maintaining the integrity of the CJIS Hot File System.K. Maintains all essential equipment in the dispatch center and makes arrangements for any emergency repairs.L. Serves as an answering point for CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) for Central Minnesota.Additional FunctionsA. Attends trainings and staff meetings.B. Provides training and coaching to new employees.C. Performs other duties as assigned or apparent.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesA. Working knowledge of law enforcement practices and terminology.B. Ability to solve problems and determine appropriate course of action.C. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or schedule forms.D. Ability to effectively use a computer and various software programs.E. Ability to handle critical situations in a calm manner.F. Ability to handle confidential information and follow data practices requirements.G. Ability to maintain effective public relations and communicate with hostile, injured, or impaired persons.H. Ability to use independent judgment and react quickly in emergency situations.I. Significant ability to multi-task.J. The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.K. Ability to handle a variety of tasks under moderate supervision within standard operating procedures.L. Ability to perform work involving complex and significant variables requiring analytical ability and inductive thinking.M. Ability to maintain effective communication with outside and inside contacts and the public supplying or seeking information on specialized matters requiring detailed or technical responses.Physical Demands & Working ConditionsA. Work is performed in an office setting. Headaches, eyestrain, and other related occupational hazards reflect the most common potential for injury.B. Work is light duty and sedentary with ability to lift, carry or push up to 10 pounds.C. This position is exposed to mental effort and stress.D. This position frequently performs work under high attention to detail and deadlines.Hours of WorkA. Work scheduled shifts that fit the 24 hour a day/7 day a week demand of the Benton County Sheriff's Office.B. Overtime and changes to schedule may be required.Equipment UtilizedA. Office equipment, computer, variety of database and communications equipment.This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" employment relationship. The County Board, County Administrator or appropriate Elected Official retains the discretion to add duties or change the duties of this position at any time.Benton County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.