DISPATCHER

Job Summary

Under general supervision of the Communication Supervisor, the Dispatcher receives emergency and non-emergency calls for information and assistance.

Essential Job Functions

• Dispatches police, requesting fire and EMS service and maintains a constant status information on all police, fire, and emergency medical service units.
• Dispatches appropriate responders using radio, mobile computers, and telephones in accordance with Communication Center protocol and regulations.
• Ensures that current date is entered into the Communication Center's computer system in a detailed and accurate manner.
• Enters warrants manually into the Center's record logbook and files them with accordance with department guidelines.
• Conducts checks of DMV records, NCIC/TCIC and criminal history records.
• Research information and contacts people for officers on calls using in-house computer, internet, and other agencies.
• Answers multiple phone lines including police, fire and EMS emergency and non-emergency lines; sends out Valley-wide communications.
• Maintains various department logs as required.
• Conducts TTY test device for the hearing impaired in accordance with Federal ADA regulations.
• Operates a variety of office equipment and office software including word processing and spread sheet applications.
• Maintain regular and prompt attendance, physically present to work.
• Performs other similar or related duties as assigned.
• Employee may be required to work beyond normal business hours at night and/or on weekends.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

• Must have High School diploma; or equivalent (GED).
• Must successfully pass the state required tele-communication course within 12 months of employment.
• Up to one (1) to three (3) years of related work experience to perform such job.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver License and be insurable.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Applicant must pass pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen at City's expense.
• Must successfully pass a TCOLE mandated background.
• Must successfully complete Emergency Management and Incident Command Training within first three months of hire date.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of public safety emergency telecommunications practices and procedures as well as state and federal regulations.
• Knowledge of police and fire department functions and services provided.
• Knowledge of the geographic layout of the city.
• Ability to clearly communicate verbally and written.
• Proficiency in data processing and organizational skills.
• Ability to type a minimum of 35 words per minute.
• Must maintain a high regard for confidentiality as employee has regular access to a wide variety of confidential information, including records, criminal history checks, criminal investigations, and court records.
• Use of independent judgment when choosing the appropriate practices, procedures, regulations, or guidelines to apply in each case.
• Ability to remain calm and react quickly under extreme pressure.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

• Performs working in sitting position for extended periods of time, with intermittent periods of stooping, walking, and standing.
• Occasional lifting of objects such as office equipment and computer paper (up to 30 lbs.)
• Position may intel shifts of 12 hours or more depending on circumstances.
• Works in well lighted office setting with exposure to stressful, life threatening or emergency situations.
• Employee is exposed to mental stress especially when dealing with emergency telephone calls.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position's essential functions.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so assigned to this position. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.

Any applicant selected for employment with the City of Weslaco must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing, references, background checks, and credential verification.