Communications Officer/Dispatcher

About the position

The Communications Officer/Dispatcher is responsible for receiving, screening, and responding to emergency and non-emergency calls for service. This role involves dispatching appropriate personnel to various scenes, maintaining communication with responders, and utilizing a multi-channel radio console and Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. The position requires sound judgment under stress and the ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Answers, evaluates and prioritizes emergency 911 calls from the public, communicating effectively to determine location, urgency, and nature of the emergency.
• Dispatches appropriate emergency response personnel to the scene, providing specific location information.
• Handles non-emergency calls, obtaining critical information to determine the nature of the call and dispatching personnel as needed.
• Retrieves information from various computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, and other related information, relaying it to responders in the field.
• Operates computer terminals to enter, modify, and retrieve data related to law enforcement and emergency services.
• Greets and directs citizens and department visitors.
• Cleans recorders and monitors equipment operation, reporting malfunctions as necessary.
• Maintains and updates information in the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management System (RMS).
• Monitors security cameras and alarm systems within the department.
• Operates an Emergency Medical Dispatch system, providing pre-arrival instructions to callers.
• Monitors weather radar for severe weather alerts and tests emergency warning systems.

Requirements

• High school education or G.E.D. with six to twelve months related experience or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• General office experience with proficiency in computer systems and customer relations.
• Missouri Driver's License and Emergency Medical Dispatch certification within one year of hire.
• MULES certification and completion of Basic 40 Hour Telecommunicator Course within six months of hire.

Nice-to-haves

• One to two years related experience and/or training; or an Associate's Degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school.
• Telecommunicator or Dispatching experience.

Benefits

• 457(b) retirement plan
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance