911 Dispatcher - EMT/Paramedic

Hackensack Meridian Health Inc.; Edison (NJ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Hackensack Meridian Health Inc. seeks an EMS Dispatcher to manage dispatch operations for our EMS department, coordinating requests for services and guiding callers with pre-arrival instructions.

The role requires a solid background in radio communications, dispatch software, and FCC regulations, along with strong written and spoken communication skills. Collaboration with police, fire, and hospital teams is essential to ensure timely responses.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 3 years of dispatching experience in EMS, law enforcement, or fire services.
• Working knowledge of the radio system and its components.
• Familiarity with FCC Rules and Regulations.
• Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch, dispatch software, UHF/VHF, and other radio frequencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Office and Google Suite).

Responsibilities

• Performs dispatch functions for the EMS department(s) and coordinates requests for EMS services.
• Manages incoming and outgoing telephone and radio communications efficiently and accurately.
• Acts as a liaison between EMS and agencies, civilians, case managers, social workers, and facility representatives.
• Validates requester information and follows up on discrepancies.
• Processes 9-1-1 requests for service and provides pre-arrival instructions as needed.
• Escalates concerns to leadership as required.

Skills

Communication skills

Radio system knowledge

Dispatch software

Computer skills

Education

High School diploma / GED

Tools

Dispatch software

Radio equipment (UHF/VHF)

Job description

Overview

Our team members are the heart of what makes us better. At Hackensack Meridian Health we help our patients live better, healthier lives — and we help one another to succeed. With a culture rooted in connection and collaboration, our employees are team members. Here, competitive benefits are just the beginning. It’s also about how we support one another and how we show up for our community. Together, we keep getting better - advancing our mission to transform healthcare and serve as a leader of positive change.

Responsibilities

Performs dispatch functions on behalf of the EMS department(s). Coordinates requests for EMS services. Responsible for efficiently and accurately managing incoming and outgoing telephone and radio communications. Acts as a liaison between EMS and those requesting EMS services, such as police departments, fire departments, other EMS agencies, civilians, case managers, social workers, and other facility representatives. Validates requestor information and associated documentation (e.g., PCS forms) and follows up timely on discrepancies. Processes 9-1-1 requests for service, including providing emergency medical call screening and pre-arrival instructions as indicated. Provides dispatch to EMS department units, and interacts with EMS crews. Communicates effectively with requestors, including updates regarding scheduling, delays, and other relevant information. Escalates concerns and conflicts to the chain of command promptly. Performs all other duties assigned by leadership.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• High School diploma, general equivalency diploma (GED), and/or GED equivalent programs.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in dispatching law enforcement, fire department, or EMS services.
• Working knowledge of the radio system and its components.
• Working understanding of radio broadcast procedures.
• Familiarity with FCC Rules and Regulations.
• Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch, dispatch software, UHF/VHF, and other radio frequencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills that may include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred

• Experience working with case managers and insurance providers.
• Knowledge of county geo-political boundaries, major highways, and landmarks.
• Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch, dispatch software, UHF/VHF, and other radio frequencies.

Licenses and Certifications Required

• Emergency Medical Technician Certification New Jersey or Paramedics Certification.
• AHA Basic Health Care Life Support HCP Certification.
• Certified in ICS 100 and IC 200 Certification and Hazmat Awareness.
• Basic Tele-communicator Certification within 3 months of entering position.
• Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certification (NJ State Approved) within 3 months of entering position.