Communications Dispatcher I (1704) - Citywide - (C00467)

City and County of San Francisco • San Francisco, CA

9d • $73,944 - $89,856

About The Position

The Communications Dispatcher I is an entry-level position that performs specialized communications dispatch duties under supervision. The dispatcher operates communications equipment—including two-way base station radios, multi-line telephones, and radio-paging services—to receive, transmit, and route information between mobile field units, City personnel, other agencies, and the public. The position is permanent civil service and full-time.

Dispatchers verify and evaluate messages, determine appropriate actions and notifications, dispatch mobile units and equipment, request emergency services, provide directions using maps, and maintain computer-based logs and records. They also assist with coordination during emergencies and disasters and may monitor building surveillance equipment and intrusion alarms.

Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to a selection process that includes a multiple-choice written examination administered on a computer. The exam assesses relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities, including radio and dispatch equipment, San Francisco and Bay Area geography, map reading, clear communication, recordkeeping, computer use, decision-making during emergencies, and multitasking.

Requirements

• One year of verifiable experience operating a two-way radio communications base station and receiving, recording, and transmitting messages; OR a combined total of one year of verifiable experience operating a multi-line telephone and a two-way radio communications base system, including at least six months operating a two-way radio base station.
• Experience using handheld, portable, or mobile two-way radios alone does not satisfy the base-station experience requirement.
• Meet the minimum qualifications by the final filing deadline unless otherwise stated.
• Include all work experience, education, training, and other information supporting minimum qualifications in the application by the filing deadline.
• Some positions may require successful completion of on-the-job training in California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) operations, policies, and procedures within six months of appointment, as well as passing a proficiency exam every two years to maintain CLETS access.

Responsibilities

• Operate communications equipment and information-transmitting devices, including multi-line telephones, two-way base station radios, and pager systems, to receive information and emergency calls and to transmit or route messages.
• Verify and evaluate messages for accuracy, follow up to confirm receipt and understanding, and determine appropriate actions and staff or agencies to notify.
• Dispatch mobile units and equipment to work locations, request ambulance, tow-truck, or other emergency services, make inquiries of other agencies, and use maps to provide directions to emergency locations.
• Record information received or transmitted by radio and telephone, enter and retrieve computer data, time-stamp and log messages, and maintain unit-status records and regular communications logs.
• Assist communications dispatchers in coordinating emergency procedures with City departments and dispatchers from 911 and DPW during accidents, emergencies, and disasters.
• Transmit alarm information to the supervisor on duty, notify the Police Department daily of streets scheduled for no-parking zones, and prepare related records and perform clerical duties.
• May monitor surveillance equipment and intrusion alarms in on-site buildings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed