Public Safety Dispatcher I - Fire

Posting number: P501-5621

Department: Fire Department

Division: 5621 - Fire Communications

Job classification: Public Safety Dispatcher I - Fire (Non-Exempt)

Posting type: Open

Categories: Dispatch

Summary

Operates emergency communications equipment, which receives and dispatches police or fire emergency calls via telephone and electronic dispatch equipment. Also, operates various on-line data entry terminals. The Communications Center is a 24/7/365 operation so you may be required to work nights/weekends/holidays and overtime. Regular attendance and punctuality along with being prepared to commence work at designated work locations, on the assigned or scheduled days and hours is expected.  Shift differential and certification pay offered after fully trained.  Ability to type 50 words per minute with 95% accuracy rate and must pass a multi-tasking skills test administered by Communications.  Must successfully pass audiogram, drug screen and background investigation including credit history. 

Examples of duties

• Answer telephone to receive emergency or non-emergency calls; obtain necessary information and enter information into computer aided dispatch (CAD) system.  Operate radio console to dispatch units based on nature of call and availability of units;
• Must have the ability to multitask (listen to radio traffic, listen to the caller on the phone and type information into the computer at the same time);
• Maintain radio contact with units; dispatch additional units for response or assistance as required or requested.  Obtain and relay necessary information to units in the field;
• Ascertains proper routing of incident information through geographic knowledge of the City;
• Keeps records and data in accordance with department procedures;
• Must become proficient in computer systems; entry of protective orders, missing persons, stolen items, criminal histories, administrative messages, hit confirmations etc. and is used during all traffic stops. Routes, transmits and interprets teletype messages;
• Participates and attends job related meetings and training;
• Perform related duties as required.

Qualifications

Completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent; or any combination of relevant education and experience which provides the following:Successful completion of telecommunications field training and evaluation program within six (6) months of hire.     

***No Class B Misdemeanor convictions within last 10 years***

***No Class A Misdemeanor, Felony Convictions or Family Violence Conviction*** 

Supplemental information

Knowledge of:

• Emergency Communications Procedures and related procedures of the Lubbock Police or Fire departments.

Ability to:

• Record computer data rapidly and accurately;
• Hear at a level commensurate with working conditions;
• Pass hearing and vision exam;
• Remain emotionally stable during periods of emergency and stress.  Extract information from distraught callers.  Related emergency situation experience preferred;
• Maintain security and confidentiality;
• Continuous working knowledge of the City's geography;
• Read, comprehend, and communicate, both verbally and in writing as well as effectively administer by written, and verbal communications;
• Use tact and courtesy in maintaining an effective working relationship with department employees, city supervisors and general public.

Physical Requirements

• Continuously sit during the shift;
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 10 pounds;
• Occasionally reach above shoulder height;
• Continuously work with the fingers;
• Continuously coordinate eye, hand and foot to operate radio and related equipment;
• Continuously talk, see and hear.