Dispatcher

PALM SPRINGS, CITY OF is hiring for the below.

Job Classification: Dispatcher

*****************************PREAPPROVED TESTING PROCESS – BY INVITATION ONLY****************************************

Testing for this position requires authorization from the City of Palm Springs.

The department is currently accepting applications for the position of Dispatcher.  Candidates can go to

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/palmsprings  to obtain and file an application with the department.

Candidates who have filled out the City’s application and meet minimum requirements will receive notification from the City of Palm Springs to schedule testing.

Apply to test through the NTN by City of Palm Springs Invitation Only.  Candidates

without prior authorization will not be considered for this posting.

*******************************PREAPPROVED TESTING PROCESS – BY INVITATION ONLY****************************************

Salary Information:  $30.02 – $40.37 Hourly

Salary Note: Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are made at the range minimum.

DEFINITION

To receive and transmit emergency radio messages and telephone calls; to process requests from field personnel for information; and to perform a variety of administrative duties relative to assigned area of responsibility.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Employees independently perform a full range of duties as assigned and receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise. Positions at this level are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This position is distinguished from the Dispatcher Supervisor in that the latter assumes lead supervisory responsibility over dispatching staff.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Dispatcher Supervisor and/or the Communications & Records Manager.

ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Functions:

·   Receive incoming emergency calls; decide appropriate needs of situation; dispatch necessary police, fire or other emergency resources according to established procedures.

·   Monitor peripheral radio transmissions and security related devices; relay appropriate information to affected field units.

·   Process requests from field personnel for information including emergency and routine requests for vehicle, driver’s license, records and warrants information.

·   Collect and file information regarding incidents and departmental activity; compile data; prepare and type reports as necessary.

·   Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.

·   Operate a variety of office equipment including a radio console, scanner, computer terminal, typewriter, copy machine and recording equipment.

Marginal Functions:

·   Search suspects.

·   Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

·   Methods and techniques of dispatching emergency calls.

·   Modern office procedures, methods and equipment including computers.

·   Principles and procedures of record keeping.

·   English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

·   Basic principles of safety dispatching and related codes.

Ability to:

·   Perform a variety of emergency dispatching functions in an efficient manner.

·   Learn and interpret pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.

·   Respond quickly to emergency situations in a calm and effective manner.

·   Type at a speed necessary for successful job performance.

·   Perform a variety of general clerical duties including maintaining records and preparing reports.

·   Operate a variety of emergency dispatching equipment in an effective manner.

·   Work independently in the absence of supervision.

·   Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

·   Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

·   Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

·   Maintain effective audio/visual discrimination and perception to the degree necessary for the       successful performance of assigned duties.

·   Maintain mental capacity which allows for effective interaction and communication with others.

·   Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

Experience:

One (1) year of experience involving telephone contact and use of computers is required.
Previous radio dispatching experience in a law enforcement environment is preferred.
Experience with Microsoft Word is preferred.
Training:

High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

License or Certificates:
A Certificate of Completion for the POST-certified Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Course (80 hours minimum) is preferred.

Necessary Special Requirements:
Must be willing and able to work various shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Must be able to type at a rate of 45 net words per minute. (Must be able to provided proof of a valid typing certificate. Internet/Online certificates are not acceptable.)
EComm online exam (by invitation only). This online exam is administered by National Testing Network – for more information about the exam click here. Testing fees through National Testing Network are the responsibility of the Applicant and not reimbursable by the City of Palm Springs. Candidates that pass the qualification review will be invited to participate in the EComm exam.
Must successfully complete a pre-employment Public Safety Dispatcher background investigation, psychological exam, polygraph, physical exam and drug screen.
Must serve an 18-month probationary period upon appointment.
WORKING CONDITIONS

Environmental Conditions:

Office environment.

Physical Conditions:

Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting for prolonged periods; the ability to maintain composure in emergency and stressful situations.

 

Job Requirements
Age : 18

Citizenship Required : Yes

High School Grad/GED : Yes

Valid CALIFORNIA Driver’s License : Yes

Ability to Read/Speak English : Yes