DISPATCHER

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

1d•$47,397 - $70,148

About The Position

The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency. This position is Safety Sensitive and is subject to pre-employment, random, and for-cause drug screenings. If you are requesting veteran’s preference, please include your DD214. The Dispatcher is responsible for receiving, processing, and relaying emergency and non-emergency calls for service. This position plays a critical role in public safety by ensuring timely and accurate dispatching of law enforcement, fire, medical, and other emergency services.

Requirements

The formal education equivalent of a High School Diploma or GED.
Minimum 2 years' experience of emergency communications and/or dispatch training in receiving, evaluating, transmitting, and monitoring emergency and/or non-emergency requests via telephone and/or radio for police, fire and/or medical services
Experience or other qualifications that demonstrate strong decision-making skills, excellent interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution skills
Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to deliver clear and concise instructions.
Ability to remain calm and professional under high-stress conditions.
Active listening skills to accurately gather and relay essential information.
Strong written skills for accurate documentation and report writing.
Quick analytical thinking to assess emergency situations and determine proper response protocols.
Ability to prioritize multiple calls and tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
High attention to detail for accurate data entry and call documentation.
Proficiency in computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication protocols, and emergency response procedures.
Familiarity with geographic areas, streets, and landmarks within assigned jurisdictions.
Strong ability to handle emotionally charged situations with professionalism and discretion.
Resilient in managing exposure to traumatic or high-intensity emergency calls.
At least six months of experience in emergency dispatch, public safety communications, law enforcement, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Answers and responds to emergency and non-emergency calls
Monitors, responds to and logs radio transmissions and activity
Contacts by phone other agencies or services as needed and provides details of the situation for response
Maintains records, and logs related to telecommunication operations on computer database
Gathers and prepares information for requested reports by researching records and recordings and ensures the integrity of data and corrects and updates as required
Interacts with the public/coworkers in many different and sometimes critical situations, through telephone or in person
Answer and process 911 emergency and non-emergency calls, determining the nature and urgency of the situation.
Gather critical information from callers and relay it to the appropriate emergency responders.
Provide pre-arrival instructions to callers, including CPR guidance and other life-saving measures as needed.
Maintain composure under pressure and assist distressed or panicked callers with clear and reassuring communication.
Assign and dispatch law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services (EMS), and other personnel based on priority and availability.
Utilize computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communications, and other technology to track and manage response efforts.
Monitor real-time status of field personnel to ensure proper coverage and safety.
Coordinate mutual aid requests and relay crucial information between multiple agencies.
Accurately record and maintain detailed call logs, reports, and incident documentation.
Operate and maintain dispatch equipment, radio consoles, and telephone systems.
Follow state and agency protocols, policies, and procedures regarding emergency response and record-keeping.
Assist in coordinating large-scale emergency response efforts during disasters, severe weather, or critical incidents.
Provide ongoing situational awareness to emergency responders and update them with critical details in real time.
Activate emergency alert systems when necessary to inform the public of hazards or emergency situations.