Reminder: Applications For Communications Disptacher Due Thursday

The City of Salem is hiring for a communications dispatcher, and the deadline for external applications is July 16.

Salem Patch Jobs Page also makes it easy to search for full-time, part-time or seasonal positions - as well as internships - in the region. With thousands of available positions, you’ll find the right opportunity to fit your education, location and specific criteria.

Salem Communications Dispatcher Information

JOB SUMMARY: The Communications Dispatcher performs a full range of radio and telephone operational duties and is required to process and prioritize incoming calls for police, fire and EMS assistance. The Communications Dispatcher has frequent telephone contact with members of the community; some situations are emergency in nature, and the Communications Dispatcher must be able to think and act clearly and calmly.

DUTIES: Uses a computer-aided dispatch system, receives emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical or other emergency services. Coordinates dispatching of emergency police, fire and other public safety equipment by receiving and transmitting radio calls. Determines the nature and location of the emergency; determines priorities, and dispatches police, fire ambulance or other emergency units as necessary and in accordance with established procedures. Operates LEAPS/NCIC computer, becoming and remaining familiar with procedures for operations, data entry, data retrieval capabilities. Immediately answers and processes all incoming calls giving priority to 911 calls first, regular emergency lines second, and business lines third, conducting all conversations in a courteous and businesslike manner. Obtains necessary information from all callers. Maintains contact with all units on assignment, maintains status and location of police and fire units. Provides communication and support services to the police and fire departments. Enters, updates and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems. Receives requests for information regarding vehicle registration, driving records and warrants, and provides pertinent data. Monitors several complex public safety radio frequencies. Operates and maintains a variety of communications equipment, including radio consoles, telephones and computer systems. Monitors all prisoners on the video screens continuously while in custody and notifies the Officer in Charge of any unusual occurrences observed. Inputs and accesses information automated law enforcement systems. Inputs and retrieves computer data quickly. Maintains accurate, up-to-date files and logs. Prepares reports as required. Assists citizens in completing departmental forms. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the types of work that may be performed. Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods related to dispatch and communication. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to read, write, and spell the English language. Ability to communicate clearly in person, telephone, and in writing. Strong proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. Ability to satisfactorily complete Basic Dispatcher’s School given by the MPTC. Employee will attend school as soon as possible after beginning employment.

QUALIFICATIONS: High School diploma and work experience which demonstrates dependability and the ability to function under stress. College education preferred. Emergency telecommunications experience and experience with computer aided dispatch systems preferred. Certifications in police/fire telecommunications, E911, Emergency Medical Dispatch, LEAPS/CJIS and prior public safety agency experience a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND OFFICE ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand. The employee frequently is required to walk, sit, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms; climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Required hear and talk. Vision abilities required by this job include close, distant, color and peripheral vision. Work is frequently performed in emergency and stressful situations. The employee may, occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Any internal AFSCME Local 1818 candidate wishing to apply should do so in writing, stating qualifications and department presently employed. Such applications shall be submitted to jobs@salem.com no later than 7:00PM, July 9, 2015. External applicants have until 7:00PM, July 16, 2015 to apply for this position. Applications must be sent to jobs@salem.com.