The City of Healdsburg is currently recruiting for the opportunity of Police Dispatcher! The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, possess strong written and verbal communication skills, and the knowledge and technical abilities necessary to understand and meet the needs of the position.
 
We hope you consider a rewarding career with the City of Healdsburg!

About the Police Dispatcher I position:
The Police Dispatcher will perform communications between Police and Fire personnel, the general public and other law enforcement and fire agencies in emergency and non-emergency situations; to receive and relay information by a variety of communication methods; and to provide technical support to an assigned supervisor.

This is the entry level class in the Police Dispatcher series.  Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks. The Police Dispatcher I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level.  
 
Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned.

Knowledge of:
 
Principles and practices of active listening and clear, effective communication.
 
Principles and practices of record keeping principles and practices.

Ability to:
 
Learn principles and practices of dispatch equipment including two-way radios, computer assisted dispatch and telecommunications.
 
Learn standard broadcasting rules and procedures.
 
On a continuous basis, sit at desk/console for long periods of time; intermittently, twist and reach office equipment; write or use keyboard to communicate through written means; verbally give instructions to officers in the field; monitor and hear officer's responses over the radio; and lift and carry weight of 10 pounds or less.
 
Intermittently review documents related to dispatching operations; observe, identify, and problem solve incidents while dispatching, remember, understand, interpret and explain operational policies and procedures to the public and staff.
 
Learn to project a calm and reasoning demeanor while dealing with irate or emotionally distraught people.
 
Learn the location of major streets, public places and landmarks within the City limits.
 
Learn to maintain accurate records and prepare clear and concise reports and documentation.
 
Exercise good judgment in emergency situations.
 
Speak clearly and precisely.
 
Maintain attention to detail despite frequent interruptions.
 
Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority.
 
Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software.
 
Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities.
 
Learn relevant local, State, and Federal laws, rules and regulations related to area of assignment.

Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties.
 
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
 
Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.
 
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
 

Typical Qualifications

Experience and Training
 
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
 
Experience:
 
Some clerical or dispatch experience is desirable.
 
Training:
 
Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.
 
License and Certificate

Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action.
 
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License may be required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.  
 
Possession of a Public Safety Dispatcher P.O.S.T. Certificate within one year of appointment.