Public Safety Dispatcher

The Public Safety Dispatcher receives emergency and non-emergency calls from the public; dispatches calls for emergency police, fire & EMS services; operates various communications equipment; prioritizes calls; dispatches units and / or refer calls appropriate to the jurisdiction; and performs other related work as required or assigned. Responsibilities are centered on extensive contact with the public, in person and over the telephone, in both emergency and non-emergency situations. The work involves coordinating interdepartmental activities within the city as well as with other agencies throughout the county. The Public Safety Dispatcher initially receives on-the-job training with the goal to possess full proficiency to work a solo-shift without assistance. Within the established guidelines, the Communications Dispatcher exercises independent judgment under emergency conditions on matters involving the potential loss of life or property. Incumbents are required to work various shifts associated with 24-hour, 365-day operations including weekends and holidays.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION

Part I : Complete the Employment Application . All application materials m ust be uploaded and submitted with the on-line employment application. All information is subject to verification. Incomplete applications will be removed from consideration. A thorough and complete review of all applications received will be conducted. Those applicants who are assessed as meeting the position qualifications and desired background experience for successful performance in the position of Public Safety Dispatcher will be invited to continue in the selection process. You may also choose to first take the NTN test before submitting your application.

Part II : Qualifying Written Examination (Pass / Fail) : You must complete the ECOMM (Emergency Communications) written exam before the closing date, or have results within the last 6 months (based on application date). The exam is administered directly by the National Testing Network (NTN). Please note NTN charges a fee to take the exam. Please visit the NTN website to schedule an exam by clicking here : select 'Find Jobs', then select Emergency Communications Jobs and sign up for City of Piedmont. Please be sure to review the minimum qualifications on the job announcement before investing in the test.

When you visit the website :

• Complete the NTN registration process and schedule your test.
• Review all information related to the City's Public Safety Dispatcher, including minimum requirements, salary, and benefits.
• Review detailed information about the testing process.
• Review the Frequently Asked Questions and take an online practice test (if desired).

Upon completion of the ECOMM (Emergency Communications) written exam all applicant scores are automatically forwarded to the City.

THE NTN EXAM IS WAIVED FOR CANDIDATES THAT CURRENTLY POSSESS EITHER :

(1) POST CERTIFIED PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER CERTIFICATE;

(2) POST DISPATCHER T-SCORE WITH A SCORE OF 50 OR ABOVE (dated within the last six (6) months) + typing certificate with a minimum of 35wpm net;

(3) CRITICALL TEST WITH A PASSING SCORE (dated within the last six (6) months) + typing certificate with a minimum of 35wpm net.

Part III : Appraisal Examination - Oral Interview : Designed to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position. This examination will be a panel interview and will be conducted by subject matter experts.

Candidate(s) who complete selection testing with acceptable results will be considered by the City hiring authority. Prior to a conditional offer of employment, a candidate will undergo a comprehensive background check that includes a full background check, fingerprinting with the California Department of Justice, a credit review, and a polygraph. A psychological examination and a job-related pre-placement medical examination will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.

This position is open until filled and can close at any time. Applicants are encouraged to apply and complete testing right away.