Emergency Telecommunications Dispatcher I

Newton, MA
Newton Police Department

Salary: $60,121 – $63,783

Position Summary:

The ETD is a critical part of the public safety team here in the City of Newton. Under the supervision of the appropriate supervisor and in accordance with departmental procedures, the Emergency Telecommunications Dispatcher I (ETDI) has the primary purpose of receiving and responding to oral and electronic emergency 911 calls, other business lines, medical, sewer and water, silent and intrusion alarms, and other means of communication requests for assistance or service in order to coordinate the assessment, evaluation and response by ETDIIs in the deployment of appropriate resources, personnel and information; maintains incident records and data; responds to requests for information and resources from public safety personnel; performs periodic testing of various equipment; coordinates with third parties to give and receive information; and all other duties as directed and required. Sound decision making capability and the ability to multitask in often stressful circumstances for long periods of time is necessary and required for the effective completion of tasks.

Essential Functions:

  • Receives emergency 911 and other oral and electronic inquires, ascertains extent of emergency or inquiry and determines the appropriate type, need, and level of service required to respond effectively. Evaluates emergency severity and responds according to established guidelines. Obtains or solicits information necessary for caller or patient identification and emergency needs through emergency medical dispatch (EMD) protocols.
  • Answers silent and intrusion alarms, telecommunication devices for the hearing impaired and other means of communication requests for assistance, aid, or service. Responds to vehicle registration, driving records and other police requests. Follows up on requests for stolen car, stolen vehicle plates, missing persons, outstanding warrants, and other data. Logs or records radio calls, incident transactions, and activity reports.
  • Monitors and responds to intrusion, hold up, burglar, and other direct connect alarms. Monitors occupied police holding cells and other public safety building areas. Answers routine police and medical incoming telephone calls, ascertains nature of call and routes to appropriate person or department.
  • Enters data and retrieves communications computer systems information in order to keep records of all actions including alarms received and transmitted, location and nature of calls. Performs periodic testing of various equipment including, police radio and telephone systems.
  • Contacts third party vendors to give or receive information such as power lines down, gas leaks, pinging of phones and other ongoing situations in the City.
  • Participates in City and other emergency drills, training and activities. Follows and adheres to department, City and other government rules, regulations, policies, and procedures including mandatory overtime policy.
    Performs other duties as required and directed by the appropriate supervisor, Chief of Police or designee.

Requirements:

  • High School/GED and one to three (1-3) years of related work or training experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Associates degree or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice of related field is preferred. Ability to type at least thirty (30) words per minute. Must have interest in and be suitable for work in a combined Police, Fire and EMS dispatch center. Ability to work a schedule that includes rotating shifts including days, nights, weekends, holidays and occasional required overtime. Must obtain certification from the Massachusetts State 911 within a period of time as determined by the City.
  • The City of Newton operates under a tiered system for its emergency telecommunications dispatcher positions. ETDIs are responsible for the call taking, EMD and E-911 aspects of the ETD model and does not include the requirement of Police and Fire dispatching. ETDIs will be trained on the full aspects of Police and Fire dispatching in order to ascertain if they are eligible to elevate to an ETDII. Must be able to successfully pass a thorough background check for public safety personnel and maintain a record that does not conflict with the ability to work within a police department. A strong and continued commitment to public service required and the ability to display a continuous commitment to public safety and the emergency communications profession.