Dispatcher/Telecommunicator

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY: Receives calls for emergency services and general information. Dispatches appropriate resources and provides coordination and communication during emergency and routine public safety operations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Dispatches calls for service to law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services (EMS), and emergency management. Gathers precise incident information from reporting persons, and uses reference materials and the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to provide supplemental information. Enters accurate information into CAD and ensures that the data is transmitted to the proper public safety agency. Understands the unique functions for all law enforcement, fire, and EMS operations within Winnebago County. 2. Demonstrates effective communication skills during periods of high stress, and maintains control and command through professionalism. Answers and routes telephone calls and messages to the proper public safety agency. Effectively communicates verbally, nonverbally, and in writing while remaining courteous and objective. Engages people without arousing antagonism or causing situations to deteriorate or escalate. Is aware of the needs and expectations of other agencies/people and is assertive in attending to those needs. 3. Prioritizes multiple calls for service simultaneously and assesses situations to determine appropriate responding agency(s) and number of responding units to manage incidents. Interprets information from the TIME system and Crime Information Bureau (CIB) for law enforcement. Makes sound decisions based on General Orders, Directives, and past practice. Completes assignments independently and without close supervision. Isolates and identifies problems, evaluates alternative courses of action, makes logical decisions, employs good judgment, common sense, and knows when and what type of action is appropriate. ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 1. Operates various software and hardware platforms to include CAD, the TIME System, voice recording systems, phone panel, radio console, weather radar, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), paging systems, and telecommunication devices for the deaf. 2. Answers all radio, phone, and electronic requests in a professional and timely manner. 3. Relays appropriate information to ancillary services such as utility companies, wrecker services, railroads, and various other agencies as required. 4. Provides general information in response to non-emergency calls or refers calls to the appropriate agency. 5. Provides emotional stability during emergency situations for extended lengths of time in order to extract pertinent and detailed information from distraught callers. 6. Validates, updates, confirms, and cancels warrants, runaways, stolen vehicles, guns, articles and property in CIB and NCIC using the TIME system. 7. Completes and interprets warrant checks on individuals as requested by officers. 8. Assists local agencies with communication needs for special events. 9. Trains new dispatchers and provides an overview of the Communications Center to others as directed. 10. Performs all other related duties as assigned by the Communications Captain or designee. WORK RELATIONSHIPS: 1. Reports to the Dispatcher In Charge. 2. Works closely with law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, and emergency management. 3. Interacts regularly with the public.