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The Police Department Dispatcher is one of the primary points of contact for the community to access police services. The general purpose of this position is to perform a full range of radio, telephone, and computer operational duties while working in a 24-hour emergency communications center.  This position includes answering calls for police service, dispatching police and emergency units, operating and updating computer systems, and assisting officers and citizens by performing assigned clerical and administrative duties. Direct supervision is provided by lead dispatchers and the Dispatch Operations Manager, but work is performed with latitude for independent decision-making within guidelines of policies and procedures. The position involves frequent internal and external contacts that require considerable public relations skill in handling. Contacts may involve non-routine problems that require in-depth discussion and/or persuasion in order to gain concurrence or resolve problems. Interaction is direct with the public, other departments of the City, and other governmental agencies. 

The hiring range for an entry-level Dispatcher begins at $50,609 per year.  Lateral entries for Dispatchers with previous dispatching experience may be awarded for a maximum of five (5) years of prior service up to $59,959 per year.  In addition, Dispatchers with previous experience may be eligible for a $2,000 bonus.

Position Responsibilities:

• Understand the basic functions of City services.
• Understand the need and requirements surrounding law enforcement records.
• Understand and comply with operational policies, procedures, codes of conduct, standards, and orders.
• Dispatch and direct police and other police department personnel to calls for police services.
• Answer emergency and non-emergency telephone calls and make appropriate assignments or transfers based on the information given.
• Monitor police and other emergency services radio traffic and speak on a police radio in an understandable fashion.
• Monitor activity, enter call for service information, and make and update assignments in the department Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System.
• Navigate, comprehend, and make accurate entries into various law enforcement information systems.
• Perform other duties as assigned or requested.

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:

• High school diploma or the equivalent, with some college preferred.
• Prior experience in a public contact occupation is desired.
• Successful completion of the department's Dispatcher Training Program.

Or any combination of education and experience that provides the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the responsibilities identified in this job description.

The incumbent in this position is required to receive communication related to City business via a smart phone. The City provides a phone allowance to compensate employees for this requirement.

Special Requirements:

• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record
• NIMS level 1 within six (6) months of employment

Work Schedule:
This position requires shift work and includes varying work days and daily hours to meet operational requirements.