Emergency Dispatcher I

About the Opportunity

Typical Tasks

• Receive complaints and requests for assistance at the 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Dispatch Center;
• Procure accurate and timely information needed to classify and dispatch user agencies;
• Classify complaint types and enter data into the computer aided dispatch system;
• Determine appropriate response and course of action in accordance with established policy, procedures and codes;
• Dispatch user agency mobile unit by phone, fixed, or mobile radio communications equipment;
• Relay calls and information to other appropriate agencies in or out of the Stanislaus County 9-1-1 system; and
• Act as a trainer at an assigned position.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education/Experience)

• The techniques, procedures and methods used in the operation of a public safety communications center;
• A minimum of three radio disciplines used by Stanislaus County Regional 911;
• The use and proper care of radio, telephone and other job-related equipment;
• Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations pertinent to public safety operations;
• The location of major streets, highways, rivers, public places and geographical landmarks within Stanislaus County; and
• The general functions of the Sheriff's Department, city police, fire departments and other public safety agencies.

• Quickly and accurately follow written and oral instructions;
• Learn rules and regulations quickly and interpret them correctly;
• Reason clearly, analyzing situations rapidly and accurately in order to quickly adopt an effective course of action;
• Dispatch public safety equipment in a coordinated manner;
• Speak clearly and concisely using proper English;
• Hear and distinguish between several voices at the same time while acquiring and retaining the information;
• Spell correctly using proper English;
• Function efficiently and calmly under pressure;
• Type accurately at a minimum speed of 35 (net) words per minute;
• Rapidly and accurately operate complex computerized equipment;
• Read and understand maps;
• Monitor two CRT screens simultaneously; and
• Properly use a headset.

• Graduation from high school or possession of the high school level General Education Development (GED) Certificate; AND
• Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, mentioned above. An example is dispatching experience in a computer-aided public safety dispatch center; AND
• Typing certificate, within four years, of 35 wpm (net corrected) from any temporary agency or comparable institution. The certificate must be a three to five minute timed test; AND
• All offers of employment will be contingent upon individuals passing an extensive background investigation required by the Department of Justice because of computer access to confidential criminal information.

• Possess a POST Basic or APCO Basic Telecommunicator Certification 

Application and Selection Procedures

• Application Review and Screening. Applications are carefully screened based on information provided. Those who submit incomplete applications that lack relevant qualifications or do not submit all required documents will not be invited to move on.
• Written Examination. Applicants will be invited to participate in a written exam that tests knowledge for the position.
• Oral Examination. Applicants are invited to a panel interview in which they will be evaluated by County subject matter experts.
• Eligible Lists. Candidates who pass the examination will be placed on an eligible list for that classification.  Eligible lists are effective for six months, but may be extended up to eighteen months.