Job Descriptions

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, to learn 9-1-1 call taking and dispatch duties for the City of Turlock Police and Fire Departments; to receive and dispatch incoming calls from external and internal customers, to learn to operate the Department of Justice automated files to include national inquires and input, to triage and prioritize the calls for service from the public in order to dispatch appropriate personnel; to perform clerical duties assigned to Communications to include but not limited to data entry, document processing, warrant processing, etc.

Incumbents will undergo on the job training which is expected to take approximately four (4) months. An Emergency Services Dispatcher Trainee will have the opportunity to promote to an Emergency Services Dispatcher I, and upon doing so, will be required to successfully complete a one hundred and twenty (120) hour P.O.S.T. Certified Basic Dispatcher Course. The department will evaluate the progress of the trainee during the first twelve (12) months of employment to determine when standards for promotion have been met. Failure to make continuous progress and/or failure to promote to Emergency Services Dispatcher I at the end of twelve (12) months will result in termination. The Chief may extend this deadline under extenuating circumstances.

Dispatchers work rotating shifts (including day shift, swing shift, cover shift and night shift), weekends and holidays and are subject to callback and overtime assignments. This position is assigned to the T.A.P.O. bargaining unit for labor relation purposes.

• Respond to and screen incoming telephone calls on 9-1-1 and miscellaneous phone lines in Communications
• Dispatch appropriate personnel on calls received for police and fire
• Operate the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) keeping track of all related events and times
• Supply information to the public as needed
• Operate the touch screen citywide radio system
• Patch radio channels on multi agency/department involved incidents
• Inquire and input data into the California Department of Justice CLETS System
• Maintain confidentiality of information obtained
• Compile DVD reports for court on calls for service as requested
• Testify in court on calls received and handled while on duty
• Perform a variety of related clerical work in the Communication Center
• Process criminal warrants for service
• Abstract and maintain records on warrants served

Knowledge of:

• High volume telephone and public contact operations

• Two-way radio system

• Basic office equipment

Ability to:

• Read, write, speak and understand English fluently
• Maintain typing proficiency at the job required level
• Think clearly and quickly in emergency situations
• Read computer screens and monitor visual changes
• Multi task
• Recall information given both verbal and written
• Follow oral and written direction
• Compile information and maintain reports in CAD
• Reference manuals for accurate input of data into CLETS and NCIC
• Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work
• Locate major streets, public places and landmarks in the city limits
• Be able to receive and remember specific information received and dispatch emergency service calls expeditiously and correctly
• Successfully complete the Department of Justice CLETS required workbook (new employees must meet this requirement within six (6) months from date of employment)

Be a high school graduate from a United States public or private high school

Or pass the General Education Development Test indicating high school level

Or pass the California High School Proficiency Examination

A two (2) year, four (4) year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university is preferred.

Licenses/Certificates

Possession of a valid California driver's license (minimum class C) at the time of application, to be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

Typing certificate with a typing speed of thirty-five (35) words per minute net corrected.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Certificates

Completion of a POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery with a T-score of forty-five (45) or higher.

Maintain the following physical abilities: See well enough to view computer screen and look up codes in required manuals; read maps and fine print; hear well enough on the telephone with a headset to assist the public with emergency and non-emergency situations; use hands and fingers for touch screens, answering phones, computer keyboard, and writing; and ability.