24/7 Public Safety Dispatcher & Communications Specialist

La-Crosse-County-; La Crosse (WI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

La Crosse County is seeking a Public Safety Communications Specialist to operate in a 24-hour, high‑stress emergency communications environment. You will receive, evaluate, and route requests for law enforcement, fire, EMS, and emergency management, using CAD, GIS, radio, and NG9-1-1 tools.

The role requires strict confidentiality, CJIS/TIME compliance, and the ability to work under close supervision during training before gaining independent judgment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of 9-1-1 call-taking, non-emergency call handling, and dispatch protocols.
• Ability to operate CAD, mapping, and radio systems in a high-stress environment.
• Demonstrates confidentiality, CJIS/TIME compliance, and professional communication.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekend/holiday coverage.
• Strong listening, questioning, and decision-making skills under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Receive, evaluate, prioritize, document, and route emergency and non-emergency requests.
• Dispatch, page, notify, transfer, or route law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other resources per protocols.
• Monitor responder safety, incidents, and status; relay critical information.
• Maintain accurate CAD calls, narratives, and related records for public records or investigations.
• Provide service calmly and compassionately to distressed callers and maintain confidentiality.

Skills

9-1-1 dispatch knowledge

Public safety communications

Calm under pressure

Multitasking

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CAD systems

GIS mapping

Radio/telecom equipment

Job description

La Crosse County is seeking a Public Safety Communications Specialist to operate in a 24-hour, high‑stress emergency communications environment. You will receive, evaluate, and route requests for law enforcement, fire, EMS, and emergency management, using CAD, GIS, radio, and NG9-1-1 tools.

The role requires strict confidentiality, CJIS/TIME compliance, and the ability to work under close supervision during training before gaining independent judgment.