Police Dispatcher (Police Dispatcher II) - University Police Department

Position Summary

The Police Dispatcher is a specialized classification within police departments which provides essential dispatch communications and records maintenance. Dispatchers are responsible for maintaining effective and efficient communications between campus law enforcement headquarters, campus police officers in the field, outside emergency and law enforcement agencies, and the public. Incumbents in this position receive, record and dispatch general and emergency information quickly, clearly, and accurately. Incumbents at this level typically have a higher degree of accountability for the dispatch and records functions. Their assignments typically involve providing lead work direction to other dispatchers and / or other public safety support staff and / or performing more complex and diverse functions in support of public safety programs. They often participate in the development of operational procedures and protocols related to dispatch functions. Typical nature of work assignments : Coordination of the dispatch and records functions including providing lead work direction of dispatch and other public safety support staff. Ensures adequate coverage at all times by assessing needs and setting work schedules, acting as shift coordinator, planning and assigning work, monitoring performance and training staff. Performance of more advanced dispatch work including developing and auditing procedures and protocols to enhance the operation of the communications and records center; documenting policies and operational protocols and procedures; ensuring police reports and records systems are maintained according to applicable laws and regulations; compiling operational and training manuals; preparing reports on communication center and related police activities; developing and delivering dispatch and related staff and community training programs; and may serve as Emergency Medical Dispatch Manager. Accountable for own work results and daily dispatch operations. Performs day-to-day work independently under general supervision. Work is supervised in terms of overall accomplishments. Work involves addressing a wide range of problems that requires judgment and some ingenuity to develop thorough and practical solutions.

Position Information

Dispatch Communications :

Answering and screening incoming calls to the police department which involve conversing with crime victims, witnesses, and members of the public to elicit and record pertinent information; operating police department and other emergency communications equipment to dispatch officers to calls for service, critical incidents and emergencies; entering and retrieving data for police reports, activity logs and criminal information; utilizing automated dispatch and law enforcement systems and databases to enter, research and retrieve information; operating the 911 telephone system and serving as the primary answer point; coordinating emergency responses including performing emergency dispatch duties; and referring citizens to appropriate resources such as counseling services, domestic violence support services or victim / witness assistance units.

Record-keeping :

Utilizing dispatch and law enforcement systems and databases (both computerized and manual) to maintain department files and reports; entering, recording, researching and retrieving information; updating department warrant and due diligence information; filing police reports; preparing arrest folders, maintaining criminal history files and preparing packets for prosecutors; compiling and sending reports to appropriate agencies; ensuring records and files are maintained in accordance with applicable laws and regulations; and providing related clerical and / or administrative support to the department.

Public Safety Support :

Providing support to other public safety and community service functions including parking and access services; maintaining records; monitoring security and fire alarm systems and coordinating responses; monitoring building access; assisting campus visitors; and vehicle checkout.

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Entry to the first level within this classification typically requires one year of verifiable experience using a switchboard and two-way radio communication system in a law enforcement or comparable agency within the last ten years and a high school diploma or equivalent. Essential entry qualifications require the ability to effectively use a phonetic alphabet, speak clearly and concisely, follow oral and written instructions, transfer information accurately, handle a wide range of interpersonal interactions effectively, and learn the use of applicable automated dispatch and law enforcement systems and databases. Incumbents must have completed or be able to attend and successfully complete the Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Dispatcher Course. Incumbents who, upon hire, do not possess a P.O.S.T. Dispatcher Certificate also will be required to pass a written test related to essential dispatching skills. Additionally, incumbents must successfully pass supplemental P.O.S.T. requirements for dispatchers such as a background check, polygraph, physical and psychological examinations, and related requirements. Thorough knowledge of record keeping laws and regulations for police departments. Ability to provide lead work direction and train new staff. Ability to handle multiple priorities and manage multiple situations while under duress. Ability to analyze and address operational and procedural problems and recommend solutions.

May be required to complete more advanced training.

Must possess a valid California Driver’s License. Position requires the use of state vehicle to attend events and visit off campus locations during work hours. Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Dispatcher Course Certificate or be able to attend and successfully complete the P.O.S.T. Dispatcher Course training.

The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to remain calm, act quickly and use good judgment in emergencies.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and campus community.
• Ability to interact courteously with all contacts.
• Core Competencies – embody the following competencies :
• Bias toward collaboration and teamwork.
• Effective communication skills across a variety of venues.
• Customer / Client Focus with an emphasis in problem solving and resolution.
• Personal effectiveness and credibility as demonstrated by interpersonal and professional confidence.
• Diversity and inclusion.

Environmental / Physical / Special

The dispatch position is primarily an indoor operation. Incumbent will remain near, or in the dispatch console at all times. Must be willing to work any shift assigned, may work holidays, weekends, and nights. Must be able to competently interact with a culturally and ethnically diverse population of students, faculty, and staff.

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