Police Communications Dispatcher (Lateral)

Avondale, AZ
Avondale Police Department

Salary: $27.35 – $41.03 Hourly

Position Summary:

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; uses a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to enter all relevant information for dispatch.

Essential Functions:

  • Monitors assigned radio channels; dispatches calls and information to police units via CAD and the radio system; maintains an accurate status and location of police units, maintains a computerized log of calls for service and units dispatched.
  • 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.
  • Must be able to multitask 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, and security cameras and dispatches emergency responders as appropriate to ensure Officer’s safety.
  • Maintains critical records by entering, clearing, and verifying all warrants, missing persons, stolen articles, stolen vehicles; and enters property into computer systems and completes all necessary paperwork.
  • Must be able to operate and maintain various office equipment including multiple computers, printers, copy/fax machines, and phone systems at a high level.
  • Performs tactical dispatch for SWAT team responding to incidents, as assigned.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent is required.
  • Work requires the knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes.
  • Two (2) consecutive years of experience working at a dispatch center is required. Candidates must have worked in a public safety communications (Police, Fire, Medical) position within the last twelve (12) months.
  • Terminal Operator Certification (TOC) within 6 months of hire; renew every 2 years.
  • Passing a pre-employment screening, including a thorough background investigation and psychological examination.