Police Communications Dispatcher

Arizona Department of Public Safety • Phoenix, AZ

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This recruitment will be used to establish an 18-month eligibility list to fill current and future vacancies in Phoenix. Under direct supervision during training period, and under limited supervision thereafter, is responsible for simultaneously operating a multi-channel radio console and a multi-line telephone, while maintaining computer-aided dispatch systems and other computer systems. Responsible for receiving, coordinating and disseminating critical information from various sources and maintaining radio contact with mobile/field units to monitor response, progress and any needed support. This position works in the Communications Center which is responsible for answering 9-1-1 calls in a 24/7 operation. Performs other duties as required. This is a competitive classification. Must successfully complete the examination process. View the exam plan for more information. Criticall (Data Entry) = Pass/Fail Criticall (Non-Data Entry) = 100% weighted If you have a disability which may require an accommodation, please notify Human Resources in writing prior to the test date.

Requirements

• Requires a high school diploma or G.E.D. and one (1) year of clerical, customer service or public contact experience.
• Must obtain ACJIS Terminal Operator Certification within six months of hire and maintain certification throughout the course of this assignment with the Department.
• Must be able to type a minimum of 40 words per minute or equivalent keystrokes in CAD and/or other computer programs for accurate and timely information entry within six months of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of business English, spelling, grammar, and punctuation required to compose and proofread written documents (e.g. memorandum, letters, reports, studies, manual, training material, etc.) of moderate to complex difficulty on various subjects for various levels of leadership.
• Skill in communicating clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Skill in the operation of a multi-channel radio with multiple frequencies, distinguishing and recognizing a variety of radio voice transmissions.
• Skill in the use of computer/keyboard devices to retrieve and/or enter information.
• Skill in effective decision making/problem solving based on a limited amount of information in crisis or emergency situations.
• Skill in the use of modern office equipment (e.g. various keyboards, multi-line telephone system, photo copiers, radio devices, FAX machines, shredders, etc.).
• Skill in recognizing and monitoring communications equipment problems, and notifying appropriate personnel for repair.
• Ability to type at 40 net words per minute or equivalent acceptable keystrokes for accurate and timely information entry into CAD and other computer programs.
• Ability to operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) equipment.
• Ability to establish, develop, and maintain courteous and effective working relationships.
• Ability to accept and apply constructive criticism and critiques.
• Ability to maintain emotional control and work effectively during emergencies, crisis situations or extremely stressful conditions.
• Ability to consistently speak in a clear, well-modulated voice.
• Ability to memorize, retain, and accurately recall information and codes.
• Ability to multi-task, organize, prioritize and adapt to constantly changing situations, and effectively take appropriate action.
• Ability to read, understand and interpret moderately difficult to complex written information (e.g. policies, procedures, rules, regulations, statutes, etc.).
• Ability to understand verbal instructions in the use of specialized equipment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, exercising good judgment in the safeguarding of confidential or sensitive information.
• Ability to perform detailed work with a high degree of accuracy, at times during stressful situations.
• Ability to accurately understand various transmissions, (e.g. telephone, radio, etc.) and transcribe information (e.g. numbers, letters, names and facts) from one source to another in a timely manner.
• Ability to effectively interpret a variety of maps and dispatch information to field personnel.
• Ability to accurately interpret and follow Department rules and guidelines, (e.g. General Orders, Director's Management Regulations, Law Enforcement Merit System Council Rules, section policies/procedures).
• Ability to work within deadlines in order to complete assignments.
• Ability to calculate mathematical problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of simple to moderate difficulty.
• Ability to interact with visitors in person in a courteous, professional and effective manner.
• Ability to develop, lead, and participate in team and work groups.

Responsibilities

• Answers, evaluates and prioritizes incoming telephone calls, communicating effectively with various callers to obtain complete information to determine urgency and need for dispatching police, fire, towing and/or medical response using a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, telephones, multi-channel radio, TDD (text telephone device for hearing/speech impaired), numerous computer databases and maps.
• Simultaneously maintains close contact with field units, communicating with Department employees, other law enforcement and criminal justice agencies, emergency service providers and the general public to obtain and disseminate information.
• Retrieves information from automated files to respond to queries from a variety of sources by typing correct password keys, information masks or special alpha number string formats on computer strings.
• Inputs, updates, requests, transmits and queries information from a variety of sources to maintain current accurate records or to access databases for information, wants and warrant checks, intelligence, and/or driver license and vehicle registration checks by typing on a computer keyboard.
• Reads/interprets maps for the public, field personnel and other law enforcement/criminal justice agencies in order to assist in locating certain geographical areas using an Arizona state map, U.S. atlas, city and county maps, and various computer mapping systems. Interprets telephone or radio call locations from maps by applying knowledge of state highway system and geography in order to provide appropriate and timely assistance.
• Greets visitors in person in order to provide assistance or refer to appropriate staff members/section. Provides educational or public relations tours and presentations of the dispatch center to members of the public, citizen's academies, legislative personnel, other agencies, etc.
• Provides back-up coverage for Department public safety call takers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED