Public Safety Dispatcher I

Public Safety Dispatcher I

Under the general direction and supervision of the Public Safety Shift Supervisor, the Public Safety Dispatcher I provides emergency 911 communication and support services for law enforcement, fire, medical or other emergency services using multi-channel two way radio system, phone lines, and various computer systems. Applications will be reviewed as received until positions are filled. Recruitment will fill two vacancies.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent; and at least two years of experience in a high-volume customer service environment which included answering phones and general clerical/computer experience or one year of experience in the emergency telecommunication field. Must possess the ability to work in a fast paced, high security environment, communicating clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing. Ability to work in a high-pressured, extremely structured environment, while remaining calm and professional at all times. Must multi-task, accurately hear and simultaneously document information. Should be familiar with the use of common office equipment, personal computers and supporting software in a Windows or Windows NT based environment, type 45 wpm and have experience with data entry. Must successfully complete a 16+ week training program including attainment of the following required certifications: APSIN (Alaska Public Safety Information Network), CPR/BLS, Emergency Medical Dispatch, ICS 100 and ICS 700 and Emergency Fire Dispatch. This position requires a willingness and ability to work all shifts, including but not limited to day/swing/night, weekends, holidays and mandatory overtime as needed. Typing test is required and must be submitted with your application. Test can be taken online or in person at the Alaska Job Center or other testing center available.

Essential Functions

• Screens all calls including 911, emergency and non-emergency lines; obtains and records vital information When handling calls, dispatchers question each caller carefully to determine the type, seriousness, and location of the emergency. The dispatcher quickly decides on the priority of the incident, the kind and number of units needed, and the location of the closest and most suitable units available.
• Must know boundaries and jurisdictions for entire coverage area in order to refer calls accurately. Coverage area includes all of the Kenai Peninsula Borough (entire peninsula and the west side of the Cook Inlet and areas outside of the Kenai Peninsula Borough under DPS E-Detachment jurisdiction; excludes the Kenai City, Seward City and Homer City limits.
• Coordinates with the Kenai Peninsula Borough Office of Emergency Management in managing natural and man-made disaster incidents such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, avalanches, floods, tsunami, fires and winter storms.
• Maintains current knowledge and awareness of each agency's procedures and policies.
• Ability to take direction, work independently and as part of a group.
• Uses a multi-channel two-way radio dispatching on several frequencies simultaneously.
• Accurately dispatches for 19 city, federal, and state law enforcement agencies, and eight (8) Borough fire and EMS agencies; following each agency's policies and procedures.
• Maintains paperwork for the courts of the Third District including entry and removal of Protection Orders and Warrants.
• Assists and coordinates with multiple agencies outside of immediate responsible jurisdiction.
• Keeps track of the location and activities of up to approximately 50 on-duty personnel.
• Inputs and retrieves computer data quickly. Types letters, forms and reports on computer keyboards.
• Uses good judgment in making decisions, in emergency and routine situations.
• Questions callers who may be verbally abusive, emotionally upset, uncooperative or frightened, remaining calm and professional at all times.
• Maintains accurate, up-to-date files and logs of all radio transmissions and phone calls, both emergency and non-emergency.
• Has a good working knowledge of state and national computer systems, (APSIN/NLETS/NCIC), knowing how to inquire and enter information in all areas.
• Maintains knowledge and proficiency using computer software such as Microsoft Office, xT911, xTrakker, and Centracom Elite Dispatch, 511 Alaska (CARS), and Coplink.
• Is aware of medical emergency calls, being able to give pre-arrival instructions to victims via phone prior to the arrival of the responding ambulance agency.
• Relates effectively to those contacted in the course of work
• Other related duties as assigned. Examination: Typing test, criminal background check, and other related skill tests as required.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers dexterously to operate office equipment, and to communicate orally; regularly required to sit; and occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally transport up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable hearing ability to allow for clear and concise exchange of information. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We look forward to reviewing your application. Thank you for applying! The Kenai Peninsula Borough is an EEO Employer. Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)