911 Dispatcher / Radio Communications Operator - Job ID 76680

Job Summary

To provide communications for all agencies which utilize the State Patrol Communications System and to assist agencies in processing criminal information. Received emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical or other emergency services. Determines the nature and location of the emergency; determine priorities, and using a Computer Assisted Dispatch (CAD) system. Maintains contact with all units on assignment, maintains contact with all units on assignment, maintains status and location of all units. Answers non-emergency calls for assistance and information. Also enters and updates and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems and monitors several complex public safety radio frequencies (VHF/800Mhz). Also, operates a variety of communications equipment, including radio dispatch consoles, E911 telephones and computer systems in 24/7 facilities. Assists the public in obtaining the assistance or information they require pertaining to emergency and non-emergency situations.

This posting will fill multiple openings.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Successful applications will have the following:

One (1) year experience in a high-volume customer service-related field OR

Post-Secondary certificate OR

One (1) year experience as a dispatcher for public safety or military entity, OR

911 Telecommunications Certificate or equivalent and (6) months customer service experience or law enforcement experience.

AND: 

1. High School Diploma or equivalent.
2. Basic computer skills.
3. The ability to proficiently keyboard/type a variety of documents accurately to commensurate with the requirements of the position.
4. Effective listening skills.
5. Excellent written and oral communications skills. Ability to remain calm during stressful situations.
6. Movements to use several computers, keyboards, and mice.
7. Ability to remain aware of surroundings while receiving information from phone, radio, or person.
8. Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

Preferred Qualifications

1. Professional certification(s) from APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials International), NENA (National Emergency Number Association), or NAED (National Academies of Emergency Dispatch).
2. One (1) year experience in customer service-related position.
3. One (1) year experience in dispatch for public safety or military entity or 911 Telecommunications Certificate or equivalent and six (6) months customer service experience or law enforcement experience.
4. Experience as a full-time police officer. 
5. Post-secondary certificate or degree.

Physical Requirements

1. Ability to remain calm during stressful situations.
2. Movement to use several computers keyboards and mice.
3. Ability to remain aware of surroundings while receiving information from telephone, radio, or person.
4. Must stay at workstation for long periods of time.
5. VISION: Corrected to 20/40.
6. HEARING REQUIREMENTS: Must not have more than 35 DB loss in either ear when averaging the loss at 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 HZ.
7. Very Light: Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folders and small tools. May need to maintain a stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties. 

Additional Requirements

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

1. Criminal History Check
2. Reference Check
3. Fingerprint Check (MNJIS)
4. Hearing and Vision Assessments

About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,200 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota. 

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

• Paid vacation and sick leave 
• 12 paid holidays each year 
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans 
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care 
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.