Police Communications Dispatcher (Lateral)

City of Avondale, AZ; Avondale (AZ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Police Communications Dispatcher to join their team. This full-time role involves responding to emergency calls, dispatching police units, and providing critical support to first responders. Candidates must have a minimum of two years of experience in public safety communications and possess strong multitasking and communication skills. Join a dynamic environment where your contributions will directly impact community safety and support the vital work of law enforcement. If you're passionate about public service and thrive in a fast-paced setting, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in a dispatch center required.
• Must obtain Terminal Operator Certification within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Answer 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service.
• Dispatch responders and maintain accurate logs of calls.

Skills

Multitasking

Customer Service

Communication

Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD)

Data Entry

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Radio Communication Systems

Computer Systems

Job description

Police Communications Dispatcher (Lateral)

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Job Description

The City of Avondale is accepting Lateral applications for the position of Police Communications Dispatcher assigned to the Avondale Police Department. This is a FLSA non-exempt, full-time position with benefits.

Important: To be considered a Lateral applicant, you must have been working in a public safety communications (Police, Fire, Medical) position within the last twelve (12) months and have a minimum of 2 consecutive years within a dispatch center.

Answers 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for the Avondale Police Department and facilitates fire and medical assistance as appropriate. Obtains accurate, essential information to process each call according to established protocols; uses a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to enter all relevant information for dispatch.

Essential Functions

1. Monitors assigned radio channels; dispatches calls and information to police units via CAD and the radio system; maintains an accurate status and location of police units, maintains a computerized log of calls for service and units dispatched.
2. Provides excellent customer service at all times. Dispatches responders by communicating information to police officers as well as facilitating needed medical and fire emergency services to people in distress.
3. Must be able to multitask at a high level while utilizing the radio and phone system while simultaneously entering information into the computer-aided dispatch system. Must maintain accurate and up-to-date information on every call for service.
4. Supports officers by looking up information in several computer systems, searching for data including vehicle information and warrants; monitors radio traffic, city alarm systems, and security cameras and dispatches emergency responders as appropriate to ensure Officer's safety.
5. Maintains critical records by entering, clearing, and verifying all warrants, missing persons, stolen articles, stolen vehicles; and enters property into computer systems and completes all necessary paperwork.
6. Must be able to operate and maintain various office equipment including multiple computers, printers, copy/fax machines, and phone systems at a high level.
7. Performs tactical dispatch for SWAT team responding to incidents, as assigned.
8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalent is required.
• Work requires the knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes.
• Two (2) consecutive years of experience working at a dispatch center is required. Candidates must have worked in a public safety communications (Police, Fire, Medical) position within the last twelve (12) months.
• Terminal Operator Certification (TOC) within 6 months of hire; renew every 2 years.
• Passing a pre-employment screening, including a thorough background investigation and psychological examination.

Additional Information

Work requires the ability to read state manuals, department policies and procedures, warrants, codes, and reports. Also, the ability to perform basic math calculations and write clearly and concisely for dispatch purposes. Planning responsibilities include scheduling coverage and prioritizing calls. The role may involve directing helpers, assistants, interns, or temporary staff. Decision-making is guided by standard practices, but professional judgment is essential. The position involves contact with internal departments, external agencies, vendors, and the public, often in stressful situations. Regular attendance and alertness are required.

Automatic Disqualifiers include dishonorable discharge, felony convictions, non-citizenship, recent illegal drug use, traffic violations, domestic violence convictions, dishonesty, or falsification.