Dispatcher

City of Fairfield (OH); Fairfield (OH); On-site; USD 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Fairfield (OH) is seeking a Dispatcher for the Fairfield Police Department to handle 911 and non-emergency calls, dispatch responders, and provide critical information by phone or radio. The role requires strong communication and the ability to multitask in high-stress situations.

Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and basic computer literacy; LEADS/EMD certifications are required after hire.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or GED and strong communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task in a high-stress environment with good judgment.
• Some awareness of secondary languages preferred.
• Basic computer literacy with data entry and word processing experience.

Responsibilities

• Handle 911 and non-emergency calls and take appropriate action.
• Relay messages and provide emergency information over telephone/radio.
• Dispatch police, fire and EMS personnel as appropriate; refer calls as needed.
• Enter data into computerized systems and generate reports.
• Maintain relationships with security, law enforcement and crisis agencies.

Skills

Multitasking

Interpersonal skills

Decision-making

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

The Fairfield Civil Service Commission is conducting an open competitive exam to establish an Eligibility List for the position of Dispatcher for the City of Fairfield Police Department. The exam will be conducted on MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2026 at the Fairfield Community Arts Center, 6:00 pm. located at 411 Wessel Dr., Fairfield, Ohio 45014.

Scope of the written exam will be multiple-choice questions based on duties of the position; multi-task listening skills; and following directions. A passing score of 70% is necessary to be scheduled for succeeding steps in the hiring process. In the event participants receive the same passing score, priority in the time of filing the application will determine the order in which their names will be placed on the Eligibility List.

The City of Fairfield is firmly committed to equal employment opportunity based on merit and services to the public that does not discriminate based on disability, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, veteran status or gender identity and expression.

This includes all City programs, activities, and hiring practices.

For the Commission:

Dana Kennedy- Civil Service

• Under general supervision, the Dispatcher handles 911 emergency and non-emergency telephone calls and takes appropriate action in response.
• Candidates for this position will be responsible for relaying messages and providing emergency information over the telephone and /or radio.
• Answer and respond to emergency and non-emergency telephone calls; dispatching police, fire and/or EMS personnel as appropriate to the circumstances; or handling the call in another manner as necessary. Refer various calls as appropriate. Be alert and sensitive to special needs.
• Compile, package and enter numerical and textual data into a computerized system. Generate requested reports or other data such as citations, warrants, arrest records, etc.
• Provide competent and efficient service when responding to contacts with co-workers and the general public over the telephone, computer messaging or in person.
• Develop and maintain an ongoing, working relationship with various security, law enforcement and crisis agency personnel to facilitate emergency responses.
• Generate reports, complete necessary computerized and hard copy forms. Log various incidents and information as required.

• Probationary Period: Twelve (12) months
• Pay Range: $28.97 - $33.39 Hourly
• PHOTO ID REQUIRED AT CHECK-IN THE DAY OF TEST

Requirements/ Qualifications:

Must have a High School diploma or GED; effective interpersonal service; effective language and grammar skills; some awareness of secondary languages is preferred; above average oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills and decision-making skills. Have the ability to make sound judgements in critical situations and be able to multi-task in a high stress environment. Must also have the ability to patiently deal effectively with people of various socioeconomic levels. Ability to multi-task in a high stress environment. Basic computer literacy with data entry and word processing experience; knowledge of contemporary office procedures and machines; some previous experience in police, fire and EMS is preferred. Must successfully complete the Civil Service Exam, if hired must achieve and maintain LEADS and Emergency Medical Dispatch certifications in order to function in this position.

If you wear eyeglasses to be able to see TV monitors, please remember to bring them with you to the exam.