Clare County 911 Central Dispatch

Dispatcher Job Description

Under the general supervision of the Director or Dispatch Supervisor, performs all duties of a dispatcher

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Uses a computer-aided dispatch system
• Receives emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical or other emergency services. Knowledge of pertinent equipment, policies and procedures
• Determines the nature and location of the emergency; determines priorities, and dispatch police, fire ambulance or other emergency units as necessary and in accordance with established procedures.
• Receives and processes 911 emergency calls, maintain contact with all units on assignment, maintain status and location of police and fire units. Answers non-emergency calls for assistance.
• Enters, updates and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems. Receives requests for information regarding vehicle registration, driving records and warrants, and provides pertinent data.
• Monitors several complex public safety radio frequencies. Ability to operate a variety of communications equipment, including radio consoles, telephones and computer systems.
• Has knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of tele-communications systems.
• Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Has knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
• Must successfully complete the in-house training program and complete the trainings required by the State of Michigan. (Current mandate by SOM: 40 hour beginning dispatch school, 40 hour advanced dispatching school as well as 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Incidental Duties and Responsibilities

May attend training or seminars as specified by the Director or Dispatch Supervisor.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to the Director or Dispatch Supervisor

Working Conditions/Environment

911 dispatchers will work in a secure dispatch center within the Sheriff's Office. There is a minimum staffing level of two dispatchers on duty at all times which may require mandated overtime. Call volumes range greatly based on the time of day, the season, the weather, large events, etc. With increased call volume comes greater stress when juggling many incidents and radio traffic at the same time. Dispatchers have the option to sit, stand or a combination of both during their shifts as our desks are adjustable.

Qualifications

Education: High school graduation or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills and Ability Requirements

Oral and written communications skills including the ability to understand, follow and relay concisely complex instructions. Ability to remain calm in emergency situations and handle crises in professional manner. Ability to use tact and diplomacy and understand people from all social, economic and cultural backgrounds. Willingness to work variety of shifts, weekends, holidays and overtime. Must possess a valid driver’s license (without restrictions) and good driving record. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Must pass extensive background check. Must not have any crimes on record that is punishable by more than one year.

Physical/Mental Requirements

Ability to function in stressful working environment. Clear speaking voice. Visual acuity to read, proofread, fill in forms and use CAD. Hearing acuity to listen and communicate in person and on the telephone. Manual dexterity to use alphanumeric keyboard. Ability to handle stress. Mental capacity to analyze data, use logic, exercise sound judgment, and make sound decisions. Physical ability to work in an office setting for extended hours. Physical exertion may be required to bend, twist, reach, kneel and sit for prolonged periods of time in the work space. Also, subject to 24-hour on call for emergencies. Work prolonged hours without breaks when needed. Skill in the use of communications and computerized equipment. Ability to keep confidentiality of business conducted at the Center. Ability to maintain effective professional working relationships with other employees, agencies, and the general public. Must pass drug screen test.

***Listed qualifications are for guidance in filling this position. Any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered***

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.74 per hour

Expected hours: 36 – 44 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• Day shift
• Holidays
• Night shift
• Overtime

Work Location: In person