Dispatcher, Government

Overview

Description Performs specialized emergency radio and communications work, serving as a dispatcher on an assigned shift for the York-Poquoson-Williamsburg-James City County Regional Communications Center. Receives incoming calls on both non-emergency and emergency 911 lines; dispatches applicable personnel. Operates a computer terminal connected to the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Coordinates responses for law enforcement, Fire & EMS, animal control, public utilities, etc.

• Provide emergency E911 dispatch services for the Regional Communications Center.
• Operate a state-of-the-art 800 MHz radio system and related technologies for law enforcement, fire/EMS, and other government functions; receive calls for service by telephone, radio, in person, and through next-generation 911 technologies; determine priority and dispatch necessary officials and/or advise callers of proper contact.
• Accurately obtain, record, and disseminate emergency and non-emergency calls; review information, determine nature of call, dispatch to the most appropriate and closest unit, relay pertinent information to responding units, and stay in constant contact to relay additional information.
• Operate computer systems connected to VCIN/NCIC to obtain and input driver history, vehicle registration data, gun permit verification, criminal records, missing person identities, stolen vehicles, protective orders, and wanted persons; coordinate with other jurisdictions and maintain records.
• Use CAD to document information and requests, maintain knowledge of emergency personnel locations, prepare activity reports, and assign case numbers.
• Provide emergency medical instruction over the phone to callers until dispatched personnel arrive.
• Monitor County alarm systems, cameras, NAWAS, and related communications; log calls and coordinate with surrounding agencies and vendors as needed.
• Maintain logs of computer and equipment malfunctions and problems; serve as the main point of contact for radio communications and malfunctions for multiple surrounding PSAPs and local hospitals.

• Graduation from high school and at least one year of work involving customer service, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to make quick decisions under pressure; communicate effectively with staff, the public, and other agencies in emergency situations; speak clearly and concisely; hear and understand radio and telephone transmissions.
• Must successfully complete VCIN/NCIC certification, Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Dispatcher Academy, Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certification, and in-house Communications Officer I training.
• Strong attention to detail; ability to type a minimum of 40 words per minute with accuracy; basic knowledge of personal computers and related software.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays; must reside within a sixty-minute response time from York County.
• This position is essential (ALPHA) and may require reporting to the worksite during emergencies or inclement weather in accordance with department procedures.

• Must be physically able to operate computer terminals, radios, and related equipment; predominantly sedentary work with occasional walking or standing.
• A medical screening evaluating hearing and visual acuity may be required to perform essential duties.
• Qualified applicants may be asked to undergo typing and qualification tests, and detailed background review.