Emergency Dispatcher

Custer County•Rapid City, SD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Emergency Dispatcher operates the Custer County 9-1-1 Communications Center, a combined communications center serving urban and rural fire departments, the County Sheriff's Department, police departments, ambulance services, life flight, and other agencies as needed. The dispatcher receives emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, dispatchers, and law enforcement agencies by telephone, radio, and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems. Calls are handled according to local procedures, Communications Council requirements, and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations. The role also involves using computer terminals to access automated data banks in compliance with applicable laws and assigning appropriate public safety personnel to routine and emergency calls. The position works in a confined area and involves extended periods of sitting while entering information into computer systems. Dispatchers must be willing to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and may be required to work overtime. The position is open until filled.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen.
Must have no felony convictions and pass a background check.
Must successfully complete the state-mandated 911 Basic Course within one year of hire.
Must possess or be able to obtain a valid South Dakota driver's license.
Ability to communicate effectively and calmly, verbally and in writing, and to speak distinctly and promptly.
Ability to hear within the normal range and simultaneously listen to and comprehend telephone and radio traffic.
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos, and to write simple correspondence.
Ability to learn law enforcement terminology and procedures.
Ability to document and rapidly enter information into computer systems, including CAD.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with personnel, agencies, and the public.
Proficiency in typing and data entry, with fine motor coordination and manual dexterity.
Ability to perform light physical work, including lifting or exerting up to 20 pounds occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently.

Responsibilities

Receive emergency and non-emergency calls through telephone, radio systems, and CAD systems.
Operate communication systems and specialized computer terminals to access automated data banks in compliance with applicable laws.
Assign appropriate public safety personnel to routine and emergency calls for service.
Document activity, locations, and status in the computer-aided dispatch system and promptly disseminate additional information.
Communicate with callers and public safety personnel calmly, courteously, clearly, and promptly, including callers who are irate, hysterical, aggressive, or abusive.
Apply local procedures, County and City ordinances, policies, and procedures, as well as FCC rules and regulations.
Maintain effective working relationships with personnel, agencies, and the public.
Perform other duties as assigned and notify a supervisor of concerns.