Dispatcher II

Dispatcher II

Department: Public Safety Communications Reports to: Shift Supervisor

Summary: Receives all incoming 911 and other emergency calls. Assures the proper equipment is dispatched. Receives and records information from various parts of the public and private sector, via radio, telephone, and teletype and forward such information to the proper agencies.

Scope of Responsibility: Maintains radio contact with a variable number of Officers and Detectives depending on shift assignment, day of the week or special events. Provides support needs such as TCIC/NCIC teletype request.

Essential Functions: Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following :

• Work all telecommunications traffic on radio, telephone, and TDD/TTY phone, answering in a courteous and professional manner. Determine the needed service and obtain the necessary information.
• Prioritize and dispatch all police calls for service when needed utilizing special guidelines and the CAD system.
• Dispatch and maintain radio contact with a variable number of police officers and detectives depending on shift assignment, day of week or special event and enter officers location into CAD and monitor the necessary police radio channels.
• Operate the TCIC/NCIC and local computer. Responsible for accurate entry and interpretation of returns. Must be familiar with all laws and regulations governing the use of TCIC/NCIC and all reference material pertaining to TLETS/Nlets and TCIC/NCIC.
• Dispatch and receive calls; monitor and contact business managers concerning alarms, open doors, etc. Maintain and update key carrier information.
• Look up and confirm warrants in accordance with procedure.
• Operate the Computer Aided Dispatch System (CAD).
• Supports the departmental operations with regular and timely attendance.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Odessa and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience Guidelines: High School diploma or GED required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
• Ability to read, write, understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Must be able to keep up with all research and development of dispatching equipment or new techniques.
• Ability to use radio, telephone and related equipment.
• Must be able to speak clearly and distinctly.
• Ability to perform repetitious work over extended periods of time.
• Must be proficient in use of all communication equipment.

License and certification requirements: A valid Texas State Driver's License is required. Basic Telecommunicator License; TCIC/NCIC Certified; TLET/Nlets certified; Must maintain Emergency Medical Dispatch and Emergency Fire Certifications and be proficient in Emergency Police Dispatch

Skills Requirements: Must pass the communication training program relating to Dispatcher I and police skills.

Special Requirement: Shift work, weekends, holidays, call-ins (overtime) can be expected.