Cedar Rapids Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Center Specialist 1
About The Position
The State of Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking detail-oriented, highly dependable individuals to serve as Dispatchers/ Communications Center Specialists, acting as the critical link between emergency calls and first responders. As a Communications Center Specialist, you’ll be at the center of emergency operations—handling public safety and criminal justice information via phone, two-way radio, and digital systems. Your decisions directly impact the safety of law enforcement and the public, and your calm demeanor and quick thinking will help preserve lives and property across the state of Iowa.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Must pass a thorough background investigation.
- Must pass a physical and psychological evaluation provided by the Department of Public Safety (includes vision corrected to 20/20, normal hearing with minimal loss, and normal speech).
- Ability to pass a thorough background investigation by the Division of Criminal Investigation.
- Ability to pass a physical and psychological evaluation provided by the Department of Public Safety which includes normal hearing with a loss not exceeding a twenty-five decibel average in either ear at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 cycles, vision corrected to 20/20 and normal speech.
Nice To Haves
- Clear, calm, and professional communication under stress
- Strong attention to detail and critical thinking skills
- The ability to work flexible, irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
- A strong sense of integrity, discretion, and teamwork
- Familiarity with Iowa geography or the ability to learn it quickly
- Commitment to public safety and the mission of DPS
Responsibilities
- Elicit critical information from private citizens and partner agencies, ensuring that accurate data is relayed to the appropriate law enforcement or emergency personnel.
- Monitor, identify, and report issues with the computerized switching system and coordinate timely repairs.
- Receive and enter road condition reports and towed vehicle updates into the statewide computer system.
- Operate two-way radios, telephones, and law enforcement data systems to support real-time communication with police, fire, and medical services.
- Retrieve and relay confidential records from the IOWA System, NCIC, and NLETS to authorized officials.
- Maintain ongoing contact with investigative officers to ensure situational awareness and officer safety during potentially dangerous interactions.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and life insurance
- Nine paid holidays, plus generous paid vacation and sick leave starting on your first day
- Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) defined benefit program
- Professional development opportunities, including paid training, certifications, and conferences
- Employee discounts through various vendors
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
