Police Dispatcher I

Under the supervision of the Technical Services Lieutenant and is responsible for communication work in the operation of a public safety radio system, computer aided dispatch system and associated equipment.

Work involves primary responsibility for dispatching police units on an assigned shift.  Work entails the receipt and transmission of radio and telephone messages, the dispatching of emergency vehicles, and related record keeping tasks. Initially, work is performed under close supervision; however, after an initial training period, employees are expected to work independently. Work is reviewed by observation and examination of records for conformance with written directives and quality of communication services provided. Reports to Technical Services Lieutenant.

The purpose of this job/class within the organization is to answer all emergency and non-emergency calls that come into Fairfax City Police and dispatch the appropriate personnel to the scene of the event.

This job/class works under close supervision according to set procedures.

Answers Emergency and Non-Emergency phone calls made to the Police Department.

Answers and dispatches officers on police radio system; monitors and documents necessary radio traffic.

Enter calls for service into CAD system for dispatching; documents events and maintains status of all units on duty.

Conducts license, vehicle tag checks and wanted files for officers and detectives; relays the information.

Enters and queries wanted persons, stolen vehicle files, and other types of articles in NCIC/VCIN; maintains and logs records internally.

Assists officers with DMV and criminal history information for their court date.

Performs related work as assigned.

Monitors, receives calls, and broadcasts on police radio; receives requests for police and other emergency services by telephone, CAD and radio; determines nature of request assistance, location and other pertinent information; answer street units and dispatch incoming calls; acknowledge civil defense and radio tests; monitor public works department radio after normal working hours; receives Fire Marshall's calls; listens to telephone monitors.

Assists citizens on walk-in basis with complaints and questions.

Supply information and assistance for other City departments.

As assigned, enter complaints, traffic citations, and arrests in computer; maintains computerized warrants, maintains various record logs such as VCIN, Tow-in logbooks. 

The duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent. 

Requires six months emergency dispatch experience or closely related experience.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Considerable knowledge of street system and geography of the City and adjacent areas.

Considerable knowledge of the principles involved in the operation of radio, telephone, computer, and related communications equipment.

Considerable knowledge of City and state laws, as required.

Skill in operation of a computer.

Ability to operate radio, telephone, fax machine and computer equipment quickly and accurately.

Ability to speak clearly and concisely and to use good diction.

Ability to think and act quickly, calmly, and accurately in emergency situations.

Ability to be a calming influence on excited citizens.

Ability to maintain required records and perform limited typing. 

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others.

Ability to prioritize requests for service.

Additional Desirable Qualification:

Ability to speak clearly and distinctly, to remain calm under emergency or stressful conditions, to be courteous and firm with the public.

Ability to learn the geography of the City in a minimal amount of time.

Ability to learn operation of radio, telephone, computer, and related communication equipment.

Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible for employment.

Must pass a job-related physical exam by City selected physician.

Must submit to psychological screening test.

Must pass typing test of 30 wpm.

Must pass Dispatcher skills test.

Must submit to a background investigation which includes a polygraph test.

Special Certifications and Licenses:

Requires Level A certification NCIC/VCIN and two-week Academy course for entry level dispatch.

Salary : $49,824 - $79,577