Emergency Dispatcher: Calm Under Pressure, Save Lives

State of Arkansas; Jonesboro (AR); On-site; USD 47,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Arkansas, Department of Public Safety, seeks a Dispatcher responsible for receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls. The role ensures timely, accurate dispatching of law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other services.

Minimum six months in emergency dispatch or related field is required. Excellent communication, composure under pressure, and familiarity with CAD systems are essential. Prominent duties include logging calls and coordinating multi-agency responses.

Qualifications

• Minimum six months of experience in emergency dispatch or related public safety communications.
• Promotion to higher classification is at management’s discretion based on performance and needs.

Responsibilities

• Answer and process 911 emergency and non-emergency calls, determining nature and urgency.
• Gather critical information from callers and relay to responders.
• Provide pre-arrival instructions, including CPR guidance.
• Assign and dispatch law enforcement, fire, and EMS based on priority.
• Monitor real-time status of field personnel and coordinate mutual aid.
• Record and maintain call logs and incident documentation.
• Operate dispatch equipment and follow protocols and procedures.
• Coordinate large-scale emergency response during disasters or severe weather.
• Provide ongoing situational awareness to responders with real-time updates.
• Activate emergency alert systems when necessary.

Skills

Verbal communication

Active listening

Written skills

CAD systems

Geography knowledge

Calm under pressure

Situational awareness

Tools

Radio communications

CAD systems

Job description

The State of Arkansas, Department of Public Safety, seeks a Dispatcher responsible for receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls. The role ensures timely, accurate dispatching of law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other services.

Minimum six months in emergency dispatch or related field is required. Excellent communication, composure under pressure, and familiarity with CAD systems are essential. Prominent duties include logging calls and coordinating multi-agency responses.