Public Safety Dispatcher

Position Summary:

The Public Safety Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating and directing emergency and non-emergency response resources for fire and emergency medical services. This position plays a critical role in public safety communications by receiving incident information, prioritizing requests for service, and dispatching appropriate resources in a timely and accurate manner. The Dispatcher must demonstrate strong decision-making skills, maintain situational awareness, and communicate clearly and effectively to support coordinated emergency response operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Answer and process incident information from routine and 911 calls to determine appropriate response actions.
• Dispatch and coordinate fire and emergency medical service resources in accordance with established protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain continuous communication with field units, supervisors, and partner agencies throughout incidents.
• Monitor unit status, resource availability, and incident progression to support effective response and coordination.
• Utilize computer-aided dispatch (CAD), radio systems, and other communications technology to manage incidents and document activity.
• Provide accurate, timely, and professional information to responders and partner agencies.
• Support multi-agency coordination, mutual aid, and large-scale or complex incidents as required.
• Remain attentive and adaptable in a dynamic environment, responding appropriately to changing priorities and high-stress situations.
• Perform any other duties as required or assigned by the Executive Director or their designee.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to convey clear, concise instructions under stressful conditions.
• Proficiency in multitasking, prioritizing, and maintaining situational awareness in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to type accurately at an appropriate speed to ensure timely data entry and efficient communication.
• Familiarity with radio operations, CAD systems, and public safety communications technology.
• Ability to apply established procedures, exercise sound judgment, and make time-sensitive decisions.
• Capacity to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, mission-driven environment.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• At least one year of experience in public safety communications required.
• Ability to pass a background investigation, drug screening, and any other required pre-employment evaluations.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain all required agency-approved certifications, including Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), CPR, and any dispatcher-specific certifications, within agency-defined timeframes.
• Availability to work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs require.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm, focused, and effective during high-stress or emotionally charged situations.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating communication and dispatch equipment.
• Manual dexterity to operate keyboards, radios, phones, and computer systems.
• Hearing and speech clarity sufficient to communicate effectively by radio and telephone.
• Visual acuity to read information on screens, maps, and written materials.
• Occasional light lifting or carrying of materials up to 15 pounds.

Additional Information:

This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It does not constitute an employment contract and does not guarantee continued employment. Duties and responsibilities may be modified or expanded based on operational needs at the discretion of management.

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Pay Range: $25.50 – $32.00 per hour (top step)

Training Rate: $23.19 per hour during the initial training period

Pay: $25.50 - $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Describe your experience working in a public safety communications center. What agencies did you dispatch for (police, fire, EMS), and what CAD or radio systems have you used?
• Tell us about a time you had to manage multiple radio channels, phone calls, and CAD activity simultaneously. How did you maintain accuracy and situational awareness?
• Provide an example of a complex or high-priority call you handled. What steps did you take to gather information, prioritize resources, and ensure responder safety?
• Describe a situation where you had to work closely with field units or another dispatcher to resolve an incident or operational challenge. What was your role?
• Experienced dispatchers often develop habits that improve efficiency and reduce errors. What practices or techniques do you use to stay organized and avoid mistakes during busy shifts?

Work Location: In person