Senior Police Dispatcher

Under general supervision, receives emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire and emergency medical services; transmits information via computer aided dispatch (CAD), multi-frequency radio transmitter/receiver, telephone, alarm or other communications equipment; dispatches public safety personnel and equipment according to prescribed procedures; and performs related duties as assigned.

The Senior Police Dispatcher is the full journey-level class in this series. This class differs from the Police Dispatcher class in that employees are expected to perform independently, based on knowledge of the City's equipment, systems, standards and procedures. Police Dispatchers will advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency in performing the full range of assignments independently.

Receive requests for Police and emergency services over the phone; answer 911 calls; screen incoming calls to determine necessity, priority, and type of response required; monitor other radio frequencies to be aware of incidents elsewhere that may affect operations. Dispatch, as necessary, Police and other emergency units in response to calls for service or requests from Officers in the field; use appropriate terminology and cite Code sections by number; call public and private agencies, such as allied law enforcement, hospitals, towing services and utilities, and request mutual assistance when necessary. Keep track of Police unit locations and status; maintain constant radio communication with personnel in the field; run warrant checks on subjects, registration checks on vehicles, and property checks; relay information and instructions to personnel in the field. Maintain accurate log of incoming service requests and actions taken; prepare other reports and records as directed; maintain files necessary for dispatch as assigned; enter, update, and retrieve information from the computer and teletype networks. Operate a variety of public safety telecommunications equipment; test and inspect equipment as needed. Have the ability to train, supervise and advise Police Dispatch personnel as assigned. Assist the Police Dispatch Supervisor with collateral duties of the supervisor, as assigned, such as completing subpoena and PRA requests, and any other supervisory duty as assigned. Provide temporary and vacation relief for other staff as necessary. Provide general information to the public; as necessary, refer callers to appropriate agencies; calm callers; maintain professionalism in radio transmissions during hectic, tense, and dangerous situations. Interact with co-workers at all levels in the organization in a collaborative and customer service-oriented manner. Maintain prompt and regular attendance. Interact with various federal, state, and local databases to support field units with investigations. Work varied shift assignments including dayshift, swingshift and graveyard shift (including holidays, weekends and overtime). Able to be reached at all times by either cell or landline should the need for mandatory call-in be necessary.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This class reports to the Police Lieutenant in the Patrol Division.

Knowledge of:

Basic terminology used in police, fire and other emergency radio and telephone communications; operation of communication equipment, including telephone, radio, pager, computer and related systems; geography of the City; modern office practices and procedures; relevant state and federal regulations; micro-computer applications related to the work; codes, ordinances and regulations pertaining to the work.

Skills/Abilities to:

Learn City dispatching codes, policies and procedures; memorize codes, names, locations and other detailed information; attend to multiple activities and sources of input simultaneously during stressful situations; obtain complete and accurate information from individuals in emergency situations, including those who are emotionally distraught, angry or difficult to understand; remain calm and make rapid and sound independent judgments in stressful emergency situations; communicate tactfully and effectively with the public, public safety personnel and others; operate complex communications equipment; operate keyboards and computer terminals at a typing speed of 40 words per minute; train and instruct others in the work of the class; follow oral and written instructions; read and interpret street maps; perform routine clerical and record keeping duties; exercise independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those encountered in the course of the work; coordinate work assignments with other sections, divisions or departments.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from High School or G.E.D. required. Completion of the Police Officers' Standards of Training (P.O.S.T.) Dispatcher Course. Certificate must be uploaded with the application. One year of current full-time experience operating a public safety Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system; or have been employed as a full-time, non-probationary Public Safety Dispatcher with eligibility for re-hire within one year of the application.

LICENSE

Possession of a valid California driver's license and proof of insurability required.