Emergency Services Dispatcher I

Alameda County Sheriff's Office; San Leandro (CA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in public safety is seeking motivated individuals for the role of Dispatcher. This entry-level position offers comprehensive training in emergency dispatching and public safety operations, preparing candidates for a rewarding career in a vital service. Successful candidates will learn to operate essential communication equipment and develop skills to manage high-pressure situations effectively. Join a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to serving the community and ensuring public safety. If you're looking for a challenging yet fulfilling role, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Six months of experience in public contact roles or dispatch training.
• Ability to type 40 words per minute and follow instructions.

Responsibilities

• Receive training in emergency dispatching and public safety operations.
• Dispatch personnel and equipment for various public safety operations.

Skills

Public Safety Knowledge

Record Keeping

Typing Skills

Communication Skills

Multi-tasking under Stress

Education

Completion of Public Safety Dispatch Training Course

General Clerical Experience

Tools

Two-way Radio

Telephone Communications Equipment

Electronic Data Terminals

Job description

Under close supervision, to receive training in public safety, emergency compliant taking and radio dispatching methods and techniques; to dispatch personnel and equipment for one or more public safety operations, including Sheriff's Patrol, Fire, Medical, Animal Control Services and Local Government; and to perform related work as required.

This is an entry-level classification in the Dispatcher series which is flexibly staffed to the class of Emergency Services Dispatcher II. Emergency Services Dispatchers I work in the Sheriff's Office Emergency Services Dispatch Center and receive on-the-job training. After satisfactory completion of the training period, employees are expected to qualify for appointment to the next higher class of Emergency Services Dispatcher II.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Either I

Experience:
The equivalent of six months of experience in the class of Clerk II or an equivalent or higher level class in the Alameda County classified service. (Non-classified includes District Attorney’s Office, Hospital Authority, and the Consolidated Courts.) (Experience must have included public contact.)

Or II

Experience:
The equivalent of six months of general clerical experience that involved public contact and completion of a public safety dispatch training course from an accredited school.

Or III

The equivalent of six months of general dispatching experience (such as ambulance, service vehicles, etc.).

Or IV

The equivalent of one year of general clerical experience that involved public contact.

Special Requirements:

1. Hearing must be normal in each ear.
2. Ability to type 40 words per minute.
3. A thorough background investigation will be made of all prospective candidates including a psychological exam.

NOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

The most suitably qualified candidates will possess the following competencies:

Knowledge of:
• The highways, main streets, major buildings and geography of Alameda County.
• Simple record keeping.

Ability to:
• Read, write and alphabetize.
• Follow written and oral instructions.
• Retain oral information.
• Learn the operation of two-way radio and telephone communications equipment.
• Speak clearly and concisely in a well-modulated voice.
• Learn to dispatch public safety equipment in an effective manner.
• Deal tactfully with the public.
• React with sound judgment under stress and emergency situations while doing several tasks simultaneously.
• Learn statutes, rules and regulations applicable to communications.
• Learn to operate electronic data terminals.
• Listen and clarify incoming calls to extract pertinent information.
• Write detailed reports.
• Condense a message into a clear written passage.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Alameda County has a diverse workforce, that is representative of the communities we serve and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance and business need. Alameda County does not discriminate in employment on the basis of, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors protected under federal, state and local law. Alameda County celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive, and welcoming workplace environment.