Nature of Work

Application review will be conducted as determined by the Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority (MVRDA).

Fulltime, regular, non-exempt position with the Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority (MVRDA). Fulltime, regular, non-exempt positions are eligible for MVRDA sponsored benefits.

Position is the first step in the progression to 911 Telecommunicator (Dispatcher) with Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority. Potential pay increase to $20.00-$21.50/hour may be offered after successful completion of training and demonstration of benchmarked performance.

Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity of services. Position is subject to drug pre-employment screening, hearing examination and a criminal background investigation in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations and Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority policies.

Qualified applicants will be notified of a mandatory pre-employment orientation date and time.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Gorham at 575-647-6803 or hr@mvrda.org.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operates radio broadcasting and receiving equipment, computer and teletype equipment. Must speak clearly, work under stress and make decisions.
• Operates communications equipment to receive incoming calls for assistance. Dispatches personnel and equipment to scene of emergency.
• Operates telephone console, questions caller to determine the nature of the problem in addition to type and number of personnel and equipment needed in accordance with prescribed procedures.
• Scans status charts or computer screens to determine available resources.
• Monitors alarm systems, operates a two-way radio to dispatch user agency emergency personnel and equipment.
• Relays instructions.
• Types commands on computer keyboard to update files and maintains logs.
• Tests communications and alarm systems to ensure serviceability; may activate alarm systems.
• May provide pre-arrival instructions to caller and generally acts as a central point for information.
• Works rotating shifts (i.e. Shift Work) with mandatory overtime.
• May be exposed to belligerent or irate callers.
• Other duties as assigned by the Training Supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

Equivalent to a high school diploma. Prefer one (1) year experience in communications operations, preferably as communications clerk, call taker, or dispatcher. Experience in use of computer terminal and/or multi-line telephone systems desirable. 30 words per minute typing proficiency. A combination of education, experience, and training may be applied in accordance with MVRDA policy.

Form DD-214 Honorable Discharge, if applicable, and valid NM Class D Driver’s License or equivalent issued by another state, as a requirement for various certifications. Position requires an acceptable driving record in accordance with MVRDA policy.

NMLEA Police Radio Dispatch Certification, NMCIC and NCIC Certification, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Certification, American Red Cross CPR Certification (All required certifications will be obtained during initial training session except for the NMLEA Police Radio Dispatch Certification which must be obtained within 12 months of hire date).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Basic Computer and record keeping skills. Adult level training and professional reading and writing abilities. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to operate radio broadcasting and receiving equipment, computer, and teletype equipment, and to operate a multiple telephone console. Must speak clearly, work under stress and make decisions. Bilingual (English/Spanish) is preferred. Ability to work with co-workers and the public in a respectful, courteous manner including belligerent, irate, distressed, or anxious callers. Overtime is mandatory and shift work is required.

To view a summary of benefits offered by the City of Las Cruces,