Police Communications Dispatcher - Phoenix

Arizona Department of Public Safety•Phoenix, AZ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision during the training period and limited supervision thereafter, the Police Communications Dispatcher operates a multi-channel radio console and multi-line telephone while maintaining computer-aided dispatch and other computer systems. The dispatcher receives, coordinates, and disseminates critical information from various sources and maintains radio contact with mobile and field units to monitor responses, progress, and support needs. The position works in a Communications Center that answers 9-1-1 calls as part of a 24/7 operation. The recruitment will establish an 18-month eligibility list for current and future vacancies in Phoenix. Applicants must successfully complete the examination process. The position is classified as non-exempt under the FLSA. Holidays, weekends, irregular hours, shift work, and possible shift extensions on short notice may be required. Limited travel is necessary.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
One year of clerical, customer service, or public contact experience.
Must obtain ACJIS Terminal Operator Certification within six months of hire and maintain it throughout the assignment with the Department.
Must be able to type at least 40 words per minute or equivalent keystrokes in CAD and/or other computer programs within six months of hire.
Must successfully complete the examination process.
Ability to operate computer-aided dispatch equipment.
Ability to make effective decisions and solve problems with limited information in emergency or crisis situations.
Ability to maintain emotional control and work effectively under stressful conditions.
Ability to multitask, organize, prioritize, adapt to changing situations, and take appropriate action.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and safeguard confidential or sensitive information.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, and consistently speak in a clear, well-modulated voice.
Ability to accurately understand and transcribe telephone and radio communications, including numbers, letters, names, and facts.
Ability to memorize, retain, and accurately recall information and codes.
Ability to interpret maps and dispatch information for field personnel.
Ability to read, understand, and interpret written policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and statutes.
Ability to work within deadlines and perform detailed work accurately, including under stressful conditions.
Ability to establish and maintain courteous, effective working relationships and interact professionally with visitors.
Ability to understand verbal instructions for specialized equipment and follow Department rules and guidelines.
Knowledge of business English, spelling, grammar, and punctuation for preparing and proofreading written documents.
Skill operating a multi-channel radio with multiple frequencies and distinguishing among radio voice transmissions.
Skill using computer and keyboard devices to retrieve and enter information and modern office equipment, including multi-line telephones, radio devices, photocopiers, fax machines, and shredders.
Ability to calculate addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems of simple to moderate difficulty.
Ability to develop, lead, and participate in teams and work groups.
Holidays, weekends, irregular hours, and shift work may be required; shifts may be extended, sometimes with short notice.
Limited travel is necessary.

Responsibilities

Answer, evaluate, and prioritize incoming telephone calls; obtain information to determine urgency and whether police, fire, towing, or medical response is needed.
Maintain contact with field units and communicate with Department employees, other law enforcement and criminal justice agencies, emergency service providers, and the public to obtain and disseminate information.
Retrieve information from automated files in response to queries from various sources.
Input, update, request, transmit, and query information to maintain accurate records and access databases for information, wants and warrant checks, intelligence, and driver license and vehicle registration checks.
Read and interpret maps and call locations to assist the public, field personnel, and other agencies with geographic and dispatch information.
Greet visitors and provide assistance or refer them to appropriate staff.
Provide educational or public relations tours and presentations of the dispatch center.
Provide back-up coverage for Department public safety call takers.
Monitor communications equipment for problems and notify appropriate personnel for repair.
Perform other duties as required.