Emergency Communications Operator (Dispatcher Trainee)

City of Montgomery, AL; Montgomery (AL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Montgomery, AL is seeking a Dispatcher Trainee to learn receiving and processing calls for both emergency and non-emergency assistance, and to dispatch public safety personnel as needed.

Training occurs in two mandatory phases, focusing on E911 procedures and police/fire radio dispatch. Candidates must meet age and typing requirements and pass background checks and a drug test. Shift availability includes weekends and holidays; compensation reflects flexibility.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Typing speed requirement of 32 words per minute.
• Willing to pass criminal background check, driving history review and a drug test.

Responsibilities

• Receive and process calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance.
• Dispatch appropriate public safety personnel based on the situation.
• Work under close supervision and complete two mandatory training phases during employment.

Skills

Typing 32 wpm

Background/Drug test clearance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The fundamental purpose of this trainee-level classification is to develop the knowledge and skills required to receive and process calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance and to dispatch appropriate public safety personnel. Employees in this class perform work under close supervision and receive extensive training in call-taking, radio operations, and the use of computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems. The classification includes two mandatory training phases that all trainees must successfully complete. Phase I focuses on call processing and E911 call-handling procedures. Phase II provides dispatch training on either the Police or Fire radio. Trainees report directly to the Emergency Communications Supervisor.

A high school diploma or GED.

NOTE: Qualifying education, training, and experience that provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job will be considered.

Employees hired as Emergency Communications Dispatcher Trainee must complete two mandatory training phases as a condition of employment. Phase I focuses on call processing and E911 call-handling procedures. Phase II provides dispatch training on either the Police or Fire radio. Successful completion of both phases is required, and this requirement extends beyond the six-month probationary period. Failure to complete both phases may result in reclassification or termination.

Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, must be able to type at least 32 wpm, and must sign a willingness statement. As a condition of continued employment, you must pass a criminal background check (to include criminal and driving history reviews) and a drug test. You must be willing to respond to the Emergency Communications Center to meet community service expectations during emergencies, disasters, and other significant events, adhering to directives from organizational leadership.

The City of Montgomery's Emergency Communications Center operates around the clock, every day of the year. Successful candidates will need to be available for shifts outside typical business hours, including weekends and most holidays. However, employees are compensated accordingly for their flexibility and dedication.