Open Menu

Communications Dispatcher

This is telecommunications work in monitoring City services radios, answering incoming telephone calls, and dispatching emergency services personnel and equipment.

Communications Dispatcher

This is telecommunications work in monitoring City services radios, answering incoming telephone calls, and dispatching emergency services personnel and equipment.

POSITION TITLE: COMMUNICATIONS DISPATCHER
REPORTS TO: COMMUNICATIONS SUPERVISOR
DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT

NATURE OF WORK:

This is telecommunications work in monitoring City services radios, answering incoming telephone calls, and dispatching emergency services personnel and equipment. Work involves the operation of radios, telephones, alarm board, computer terminals and printers, and recording equipment. Police, fire, emergency medical service, and animal control calls are received 24 hours every day from the public. The position dispatches personnel, vehicles, and equipment to the scene of an emergency based on the location and nature of the call. The position also monitors radios for status of City employees and calls. State and national crime information networks are maintained and records for all calls are established. Work is reviewed while in progress and through evaluation of records and reports.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

Answers all emergency and non-emergency calls from citizens; obtains vital information; refers callers to appropriate departments and/or contacts agencies and obtains assistance for caller; takes and distributes phone messages for public safety personnel.

Operates a two-way radio system to provide a lifeline of support for police officers in the field; dispatches personnel to investigate incidents or requests for service; relays information to officers and superiors; monitors video recording equipment.

Monitors radio communications of area and state police; identifies information relative to the City; informs appropriate personnel.

Maintains, updates, and files all pertinent logs, information cards, tapes, and other records and documents daily.

Operates GCIC/NCIC computer; secures and enters information on stolen vehicles, articles, guns, wanted and missing persons, driving and criminal histories, etc.

Maintains and effectively operates the computer aided dispatch (CAD) system.

Operates an in-house computer system capable of providing case numbers for incident and arrest reports as needed by police personnel.

Operates and controls the security system that allows access throughout the police department; must be familiar with the location codes so that the appropriate door is unlocked.

Monitors the video recording equipment used to monitor the different areas of the police department.

Performs general office duties including but not limited to filing, copying, typing, and distributing reports, mail, and other documents.

Maintains current knowledge of City/county main thoroughfares, access routes, and construction in progress.

Performs assigned work as necessary.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

Serves as the supervisor of the shift and is responsible of all activities occurring within the Communications office.

Training of newly hired personnel as to the duties and responsibilities required of this position; responsible for insuring that all dispatchers on their shift are in compliance with all policies and procedures of the Doraville Police Department.

Ensures that all necessary warrants, articles, vehicles, guns, and persons are entered and removed properly from the GCIC/NCIC and in-house computer systems; responsible for ensuring that all appropriate paperwork and logs are correct and complete.

Maintains the video recording (DVD) system and ensures the proper operation of the system, changing the DVD as necessary.

Notifies the appropriate personnel of any major problems or issues that may arise within the Communications division by using the proper chain of command.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Some knowledge of or ability to learn public safety rules, regulations, terminology, and methods of operation.
Some knowledge of or ability to learn police dispatch procedures. Some knowledge of or ability to learn telephone and radio operating requirements and techniques.
Some knowledge of or the ability to learn the street system and geography of the City and the location of important buildings and areas.
Some knowledge or the ability to learn computer and software systems.
Ability to speak in a clear, well-modulated voice which is easily understood over the telephone and radio and in person.
Ability to make quick and sound decisions and clearly and effectively communicate orally in crisis situations.
Ability to deal courteously and diplomatically with public.
Ability to type proficiently and accurately.
Ability to produce legible handwritten material.
Ability to perform several tasks simultaneously.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must be eighteen (18) years of age or older.
Must be certified as a terminal operator within six (6) months of employment.
Must be available to work various shifts which includes working on weekends and holidays.
Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation, to include but not be limited to, a physical examination with drug screening, a polygraph examination, a psychological examination, and an oral interview.

We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, the presence of a non-related medical condition or handicap, or any other legally protected status.

UA-12108941-1