Public Safety Dispatcher: Emergency Communications

City of Bartow; Bartow (FL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Bartow is seeking a skilled Public Safety Dispatcher to handle emergency and non‑emergency calls, operate the CAD system for police and fire responses, and coordinate with agencies to ensure rapid service delivery.

Required are a high school diploma or GED, Florida driver’s license, and essential certifications. Flexibility, strong judgment and calmness under stress are critical for success in this essential role.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License required.
• Possession of or ability to acquire FCIC/NCIC Operators and 911 certification.
• Possession of CPR certification.
• Possession of State of Florida Public Safety Telecommunicator certification within one year of employment.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Elevated background check may be required by City of Bartow upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Operates a multi‑line telephone to answer calls, interview callers, classify requests, and determine responses.
• Directs calls to proper departments and answers routine questions.
• Operates a complex Computer Aided Dispatch System for Police and Fire Emergency Response.
• Notifies dispatch of service requests and records activities of dispatches.
• Receives and forwards service requests and calls for City departments and other agencies.
• Operates radios, switchboard, alarms, and computer terminals.
• Dispatches emergency equipment and personnel where and when needed.
• Maintains FCIC/NCIC networks and public safety computer records.

Skills

Public safety knowledge

Dispatch operations

Interpersonal skills

Office equipment

Street knowledge

People skills

Policy interpretation

Record keeping

Learning agility

English fluency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The City of Bartow is seeking a skilled Public Safety Dispatcher to handle emergency and non‑emergency calls, operate the CAD system for police and fire responses, and coordinate with agencies to ensure rapid service delivery.

Required are a high school diploma or GED, Florida driver’s license, and essential certifications. Flexibility, strong judgment and calmness under stress are critical for success in this essential role.