Description

1.8 Job Description for a Dispatcher (1) DUTIES
The primary duties of a 911 dispatcher is included in, but not limited to, the following: 1. The preservation of the safety and security of the general populace. 2. To see to the enforcement of all laws. 3. To expeditiously relay requests for help and assistance from the general populace to the appropriate public safety agency. 4. To monitor and check upon the safety of all deployed public safety field units that have their primary means of communication with the 911 Answering Point. 5. To perform those tasks within their power as assigned by units in the field with quiet efficiency. (2) REQUIRED SKILLS The capable skills of a dispatcher is included in, but not limited to, the following: 1. Must be able to speak clearly and distinctly at all times. S/he must possess superior listening skills. 2. Must have the manual dexterity to operate all equipment. (3) GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS Some of the general qualifications of a dispatcher is included in, but not limited to, the following: 1. Be a high school graduate or have GED equivalent. 2. S/he must be able to handle and deal with severe emotional stress in a healthy, poised and professional manner. The dispatcher cannot react to rage or hysteria with rage or hysteria but instead act with calm and assurance and, above all, maintain a problem solving attitude. 3. Shall never use the advantages of the job for his/her personal advancement. S/he shall not accept favors, gifts or gratuities that would create a conflict of interest in the performance of his/her duties. 4. Must be willing to work odd hours, including weekends and holidays. S/he must be able to adjust to sudden schedule changes. Must be willing, under special circumstances, to put in long hours. S/he must be willing to work without the possibility of breaks or dinner hours. 5. Shall cooperate with public safety officials to the end that the safety and welfare of the public is assured and shall do so without favoritism or political motive. S/he shall not permit petty jealousies or personal differences to influence the performance of their duties. 6. Shall so conduct his/her work life so that they will be regarded as a model of stability and fidelity. 7. Shall not have a record of conviction in a court of law of a felony or Class A misdemeanor. 8. Shall be willing to accept additional duties and responsibilities. 9. Shall be able to take and accept positive supervision. Shall be able to accept and benefit from constructive criticism and advice. 10. Shall continuously monitor all telephones and radio traffic and shall answer same expeditiously. S/he shall follow established radio and telephone procedure. 11. Shall be able to operate all computer equipment and pass any required schooling.
12. Shall actively pursue self improvement in their skills and capabilities as a dispatcher. Shall be willing to attend and pass any job required (present or future) schooling, training, examination or evaluation. 13. Shall possess a thorough understanding of the technical capabilities or their own system and a working under-standing of co-operator's systems. Must understand and follow all established dispatching procedures for all agencies answered for. S/he must understand his/her community, its public services and programs. 14. Must be able to keep sensitive information secret and confidential. 15. Shall be willing to take any required polygraph and blood/urine test.