Dispatcher

General Description:

• Dispatch accurate and rapid processing of routine and emergency calls, which requires following prescribed standard operating procedures.
• Transferring callers to other emergency response agencies such as law enforcement or fire rescue following prescribed procedures.
• Duties require the ability to quickly determine the nature of the emergency from information provided by emergency personnel or the public and initiate appropriate action.
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate professionally with residents, public officials, governmental entities and political leaders when necessary

Essential Job Functions:

• Receives telephone calls from citizens or emergency personnel requesting assistance or information; screen the call and initiate appropriate action per established protocols.
• Work is performed in a fast paced, high call volume, call center environment.
• Operates communications and associated peripheral equipment to dispatch assistance units and enter call records into computer aided dispatch system (CAD).
• Maintains required files, records, and accurate communication logs of pertinent transmissions of incoming and outgoing calls.
• Takes complaints, reports issues to on-duty supervisor and document as required.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Florida Driver's License
• Previous Ambulance Dispatching experience
• Must possess multitasking skills, initiative, and a desire to help others, and be able to function as a team member.
• Ability to operate a computer and utilize the related software programs.
• Ability to react calmly, quickly, and promptly handle emergency situations and interact with excited persons in a calm, guiding manner to secure essential information pertaining to emergency situations.
• Ability to maintain clear, accurate, and detailed accounts of operations.
• Ability to make sound decisions during stressful situations, independently with minimal supervision and as a team member.
• Ability to provide direction/guidance to the Communications Center staff as needed.
• Ability to learn to operate radio and telephone transmitting and receiving equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and to listen and understand.
• Ability to maintain flexibility and adaptability when performing tasks and duties in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in the EMS field (example: current or former EMT, Paramedic)
• Knowledge of basic medical terminology
• Experience working in a fast paced, high call volume commercial or government public safety dispatching/call-taking facility
• Knowledge of county geography; adjoining counties, and roadway networks, major intersections, location of important attractions, buildings, industries, and subdivisions.