Police Communications Dispatcher (Lateral)

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.

Essential Functions: 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 and inputs all relevant details into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for timely dispatch. Additional functions of the position include: 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. Monitors assigned radio channels; dispatches calls and information to police units via CAD and the radio system; maintains accurate status and location of police units; and maintains a computerized log of calls for service and units dispatched. Multitasks 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. Supports officers by looking up information in several computer systems, searching for data including vehicle information and warrants; monitors radio traffic, city alarm systems, security cameras, and dispatches emergency responders as appropriate to ensure officers' safety. Maintains critical records by entering, clearing, and verifying all warrants, missing persons, stolen articles, and stolen vehicles; enters property into computer systems and completes all necessary paperwork. Performs tactical dispatch for SWAT team responding to incidents, as assigned. Operates and maintains various office equipment, including multiple computers, printers, copy/fax machines, and phone systems at a high level. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency is required. Knowledge of basic operational, technical, or office processes. Applicants must have at least two (2) consecutive years of dispatch center experience and must have worked in a public safety communications role (Police, Fire, or Medical) within the last twelve (12) months. Must be able to obtain a Terminal Operator Certification (TOC) within six months of hire. Certification must be renewed every two years and maintained for the duration of employment. Must be able to successfully pass a comprehensive background check and a psychological exam.

Supplemental Information: Employment offers are conditional upon the successful completion and passing of:

• NeoGov Application
• Panel Interview
• Comprehensive Background Investigation and Fingerprinting
• Psychological Evaluation