Emergency Communications Officer (911 Dispatcher)

Amherst County Government; Amherst (VA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

County benefits package

Virginia Retirement System

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Amherst County Government is seeking an Emergency Communications Officer (911 Dispatcher) in Amherst, VA to serve as the critical link between the public and responders. You will handle 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls, gather information, and dispatch police, fire, and EMS units to ensure fast, effective responses.

Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or GED and at least two years of public-facing experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of experience involving responsible contact with the general public.
• Clear verbal communication and ability to stay calm in high-stress, fast-paced situations.

Responsibilities

• Answer and prioritize 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls in accordance with policies.
• Obtain detailed information from callers and dispatch appropriate emergency personnel.
• Monitor field units and maintain awareness of their status and location.
• Enter and retrieve information through NCIC/VCIN and CAD systems.
• Maintain confidential records and handle sensitive information.
• Process documentation from the Sheriff's Office, courts, and magistrate.
• Assist in coordinating emergency service activities during major incidents.
• Perform routine administrative tasks and support center operations.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Verbal communication

Multitasking

Data entry

Procedural compliance

Job description

Emergency Communications Officer (911 Dispatcher) (Amherst, VA)

Are you calm under pressure and committed to helping others in critical moments? Amherst County is seeking a dedicated Emergency Communications Officer to serve as the vital link between the public and emergency responders. In this role, you will receive and process 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls, gather critical information, and dispatch the appropriate police, fire, and EMS units to ensure a fast and effective response.

What You'll Do

• Answer and prioritize 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service in accordance with department policies, including Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols.
• Obtain detailed information from callers and dispatch appropriate emergency personnel.
• Monitor field units and maintain awareness of their status and location.
• Enter and retrieve information through NCIC/VCIN and Computer-Aided Dispatch systems.
• Maintain confidential records and handle sensitive information with professionalism.
• Process and maintain documentation from the Sheriff's Office, courts, and magistrate (including warrants, protective orders, and investigative reports).
• Assist in coordinating emergency service activities during major incidents or county-wide emergencies.
• Perform routine administrative tasks and support overall communications center operations.

What We're Looking For

Knowledge & Skills

• Clear, effective verbal communication and active listening skills.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and efficient in high-stress, fast-paced situations.
• Strong multitasking and prioritization abilities.
• Accurate typing and data entry skills with proper grammar and spelling.
• Ability to understand and follow detailed procedures, policies, and instructions.
• General knowledge of public safety operations is helpful.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Two years of experience involving responsible contact with the general public

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while monitoring systems and answering calls
• Frequent use of hands/fingers for typing and operating communications equipment
• Clear verbal communication and the ability to hear audio communications systems

Certifications & Special Requirements

Must obtain the following within one year of hire:

• 40-Hour Basic Dispatcher Training
• CJIS certification for access to NCIC/VCIN systems
• CPR and Emergency Medical Dispatch certification
• FEMA IS-100, IS-200, and IS-700 NIMS courses

Additional requirements:

• Clean driving record and no prior criminal convictions
• Successful completion of a pre-employment health screening, including drug screening and hearing exam

Why Join Amherst County?

• Competitive County salary starting at $37,000+ based on experience and qualifications.
• Full County benefits package including Virginia Retirement System (VRS) participation
• Opportunities for advancement
• A supportive, team-focused work environment

This is a full time position