Emergency Medical Dispatcher - Examination

City of Cleveland•6004 - Ems, OH

12d

About The Position

This is an open Civil Service examination, not an immediate job opening. Applicants apply to take the examination and may be placed on an Eligible List for a future opening. The examination includes a pass/fail typing test requiring at least 25 words per minute with 90% accuracy, followed by a written examination that may be computerized or pencil-and-paper. The written examination tests the duties and minimum qualifications of the classification. Under general supervision, the Emergency Medical Dispatcher answers emergency calls, gathers information, assigns call priority, and provides post-dispatch information and lifesaving pre-arrival instructions. The dispatcher operates emergency medical service computer, telephone, and radio equipment; dispatches units based on availability and proximity; and coordinates responses involving multiple units or other agencies. The role requires compassion, proficiency in emergency dispatch, and familiarity with Cleveland streets and available resource agencies. A high school diploma or GED is required. Candidates must demonstrate computer proficiency, meet the typing requirement, pass required certification testing, and maintain certifications as required. The position requires the ability to lift and carry 30 pounds. Associate’s degrees, Medical Assistance or Health Care Aide certificates, and bilingual ability are preferred. Job-specific certification instruction will be provided as part of employee training.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Working knowledge of computers.
Ability to type at least 25 words per minute with 90% accuracy; the typing test is pass/fail.
Pass certification testing required to perform the duties and maintain certifications as required, including certifications for access to national, state, and local criminal databases (LEADS).
Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree.
Certificate in Medical Assistance or Health Care Aide.
Bilingual ability.

Responsibilities

Answer emergency telephone calls from citizens and other agencies.
Elicit pertinent information from callers, prioritize calls, and assign the proper priority code.
Provide post-dispatch information and lifesaving pre-arrival instructions to callers.
Show compassion and empathy and use techniques to calm callers when needed.
Maintain proficiency in emergency dispatch to achieve and maintain priority dispatch certification.
Operate Emergency Medical Service computers, telephone equipment, and radio equipment in accordance with City and FCC rules and regulations.
Maintain familiarity with Cleveland streets and dispatch Emergency Medical Service units according to availability and proximity to the scene.
Coordinate emergencies requiring multiple Emergency Medical Service units and resources from other agencies.
Maintain familiarity with resource agencies, including Police, Fire, and Coast Guard, and contact them as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned or required to meet emergency situations.