Dispatcher

Omaha Tribe of Nebraska•Macy, NE

About The Position

The Dispatcher operates radio network control at the Dispatch Center and handles law enforcement communications through telephone systems and two-way radio. The role serves as a central receiving and dispatching officer for the Police Department and as an official citizen information and complaint contact. It maintains logs and files related to complaints, police actions, reports, and communications; operates the Crime Reporting Information System (CRIS) and the NCIC criminal justice computer system; and serves as the Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC), filing teletype documents in appropriate subject files. The Dispatcher receives and classifies public calls and messages, determines the nature of requests, logs complaints and emergencies, and routes or broadcasts information and instructions to police units and other appropriate responders. The position may coordinate requests involving police, fire, ambulance, and other emergency services, and may transmit messages between tribal organizations, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other law enforcement agencies. It also tests communication systems and reports malfunctions to a supervisor. The job requires working varied shifts, including nights, days, and weekends, and handling stressful situations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or one to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least six months of previous experience in the field.
Approved radio dispatching certification, or six months of previous experience as a dispatcher or Police Officer.
Valid driver's license.
Possess or pass a test for valid standard first aid certification.
Pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.
General knowledge of the Privacy Act and confidentiality of records.
Excellent communication skills and general knowledge or skills in clerical or office procedures.
Computer literacy.
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos; write simple correspondence and concise reports; present information effectively to individuals and small groups; and understand and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively and remain calm in stressful situations.
Ability to perform duties under close or minimal supervision.
Have a telephone or be able to obtain telephone service.

Responsibilities

Operate State, Tribal, and Federal radio network control at the Dispatch Center.
Answer, receive, and disseminate information through telephone systems and two-way radio.
Interview callers to determine the nature of calls and provide available information.
Take complaints and refer them to appropriate authorities.
Record radio and telephone communication transactions in appropriate control logs.
Maintain logs and files of complaints, police actions, and reports.
Operate the Crime Reporting Information System (CRIS) and the NCIC criminal justice computer system.
Serve as Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC) and file teletype documents in appropriate subject files.
Apply knowledge of EMS assessments, treatments, and procedures in accordance with state regulations and protocols.
Supervise and receive incoming and outgoing calls from the general public.
Maintain accurate daily records of incoming and outgoing calls handled by telephone or short-wave dispatching equipment.
Receive and classify telephone messages and route them for transmission to police officers.
Receive and log public complaints concerning crimes and police emergencies; broadcast orders to nearby police radio units and relay instructions or questions from remote units.
Coordinate police, fire, ambulance, and other emergency requests when needed, relaying instructions to the units concerned.
Transmit or receive messages between tribal organizations, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other law enforcement agencies when needed.
Receive and log incoming fire calls, question callers about the emergency location and disposition, and relay messages from fire or police emergency scenes, including requests for additional help or medical assistance.
Test communication systems and report malfunctions to a supervisor.
Perform other duties as assigned.