PSAP Emergency Communications Dispatcher I - Westminster

State of Vermont • Westminster, VT

75d • Onsite

About The Position

Watch a short video on being a PSAP Emergency Communications Dispatcher I.

Are you looking for a career that serves the community? Are you a highly motivated individual that enjoys a fast paced, team-oriented environment? Do you have customer service or call center experience? Apply now for this opportunity to expand your career and be the voice of the Vermont State Police!

Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process must pass testing before they are considered for an interview. Visit this site for more information about the test. A test prep guide will be emailed to applicants if selected.

$5,000 Hiring Bonus for New Hires!When funding is available, all new full-time Emergency Communications Dispatchers will receive a hiring bonus of $5,000 as follows:

$1,000 will be awarded upon successful completion of the first pay period.
$1,500 will be awarded upon successful completion of the training program.
$2,500 will be awarded upon successful completion of one year of service.

Job SummaryAn Emergency Communications Dispatcher (ECD) receives voice and text requests for police, fire, and medical services. The incumbent in this position determines the nature, urgency, and jurisdiction of a report and either dispatches first responders or transfers the call to the appropriate jurisdiction. The ECD documents information in Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software and provides updates via phone or radio as needed. The ECD provides guidance and assistance to the public in life-safety situations; and coordinates appropriate responses to high-risk, high-stress operations, with the objective of keeping all participants safe.

TrainingA new hire will go through a lengthy, structured training program to learn Vermont State Police and E911 policy and procedures for handling emergent and non-emergent calls as well as other PSAP related responsibilities. The average training program lasts approximately 5 months.

Requirements

• Ability to quickly and accurately transcribe radio and telephone messages.
• Ability to remember details.
• Ability to operate various software and computers.
• Ability to operate 2-way radio and other communication systems.
• One (1) year or more of experience in public safety, first response, or as an emergency dispatcher or telecommunicator.
• OR Two (2) or more years of experience as a non-emergency dispatcher, or in a customer service or administrative role that includes significant contact with the public.
• Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).
• Applicants must pass a Department of Public Safety administered computer based "CritiCall" test, which assesses computer and other job related skills.
• All candidates must pass a security clearance conducted by the Department of Public Safety.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Vermont E911 Call Taker Certification.
• Experience running license, registration, and criminal history queries.
• Experience entering NCIC information.
• Experience as a First Responder.

Responsibilities

• Receives voice and text requests for police, fire, and medical services.
• Determines the nature, urgency, and jurisdiction of a report.
• Dispatches first responders or transfers the call to the appropriate jurisdiction.
• Documents information in Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software.
• Provides updates via phone or radio as needed.
• Provides guidance and assistance to the public in life-safety situations.
• Coordinates appropriate responses to high-risk, high-stress operations.

Benefits

• $5,000 Hiring Bonus for New Hires
• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• 11 paid holidays each year
• Generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• State defined benefit pension plan
• Deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Built-in overtime
• Promotion eligibility after 2 years, which would also include a differential for training new hires

What This Job Offers

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