Dispatcher at City of Bexley (OH) – Bexley, Ohio

Under the general direction of the Lieutenant, is responsible for radio communication to law enforcement. Receives calls from public, law enforcement, and other agencies and initiates appropriate response. Documents officer activity and assistance using Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system

• Receives and screens incoming calls for law enforcement, fire, medical or other emergency services.

• Operates computer terminal for LEADS (Law Enforcement Automated Data System), NCIC (National Crime Information Center), NLETS (National Law Enforcement Telecommunication System), CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch), Flock, and other systems as assigned.

• Questions callers to determine location and seriousness of emergency and response needed. Determines nature and location of emergency; prioritizes; dispatches emergency units as needed and in accordance with established procedures.

• Enters information into Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.

• Operates two-way radio and/or other communications equipment to dispatch police, fire, medical and other personnel and equipment and to relay instructions or information to remote units.

• Provides pre-arrival instructions to caller including preliminary first aid instructions before police officer, paramedic truck or ambulance arrives.

• Coordinates emergency requests, relaying instructions to closest and most suitable units available.

• Relays information between hospital staff and emergency medical technicians at site or in ambulance.

• Transmits and receives messages between divisions of own agency and other law enforcement agencies.

• Monitors silent alarm systems, remote cameras and other systems used to detect illegal entry and maintain security.

• Contacts police officers to verify assignment locations, monitors dispatched units and, when necessary, services as liaison with caller.

• Enters, updates and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems, including Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS).

• Enters and verifies warrants

• Prepares public records requests.

• Answers or forwards nonemergency requests for assistance.

• Tests communications and alarm equipment and backup systems to ensure serviceability.

• Provides in-person customer service to visitors of the police station, including directing and assisting visitors, providing after-hours support to Mayor’s Court, processing bond payments, and other in-person assistance

• Checks and replies to email messages as related to work duties in a timely manner.

• Other duties may be assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED and two or more months of the equivalent combination of related education, experience and/or training.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of radio codes

• Knowledge of geography of the City and location of important buildings

Skills:

• Skilled in maintaining accurate documentation in CAD systems

• Quickly assessing an emergency situation and determining the course of action

• Typing 30 words per minute with minimal error

• Radio operations and related equipment; Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD); telephone; two-way radio; LEADS; basic office equipment

• Assisting and responding courteously and professionally to the public and co-workers

Abilities:

• Ability to clearly communicate verbal instructions in high pressure situations

• Ability handle multiple tasks simultaneously

• Ability to hear callers and personnel over radio or phone

• Ability to remain calm in very stressful situations, often without down time between situations

• Ability to adapt to unexpected changes in assignments or deadlines.

• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, off duty call in’s, overtime and holidays as required in accordance with maintaining a fully operational 24-hr. facility

Other Characteristics:

• Ability to pass background check

• Ability to pass a hearing examination

• Must be a United States Citizen or United States Permanent Resident

• Must be 18 years of age

• Ability to work evenings, overnight, weekends, and holidays

• Adheres to the department’s values of Fairness, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy

• Possesses or has ability to possess and maintain the following certifications:

  • LEADS certification

  • CPR/AED certification

  • Notary Public