Sanger Police Department
Communications

Definition

Under general supervision, to perform police, fire and EMS communications and some related clerical duties; to receive and transmit routine and emergency radio messages; to dispatch emergency equipment; process and maintain a variety of departmental forms and reports; interact with the public in person and on the telephone; and to do related work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Incumbents in this working level class use a computerized dispatch system on an assigned shift; receive and transmit information; type letters and reports; maintain department files and records. Incumbents will be required to wear a designated uniform.

Examples of Duties

• Under general supervision on an assigned shift, performs emergency dispatch for police, fire and ambulance and performs clerical work;
• receives emergency reports in person and over the telephone and radio system;
• dispatches appropriate emergency equipment and notifies City departments and other agencies of emergency conditions;
• supplies routine information to the public;
• maintains radio contact with units in the field;
• keeps computer logs of all department activities;
• processes, completes and maintains department records and forms;
• makes computer entry;
• receives currency;
• may process permits and licenses;
• prepares and types reports and correspondence from notes or verbal instructions;
• may assist in the compilation of figures and statistics;
• may be required to work overtime or irregular hours;
• and other related duties as assigned.

Desirable Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• The location of major streets, public places and landmarks in the City;
• modern office methods, equipment and procedures;
• correct English usage;
• spelling, punctuation, and grammar;
• Spanish or Asian language, verbal communication skills are highly desirable

Ability to:

• Learn the meaning of various City ordinances, State and specific Federal laws and radio codes;
• learn proper radio dispatch procedures;
• operate radio transmitting communication equipment;
• work under stress, act quickly, use good judgment, and accept responsibility in emergency situations;
• speak and enunciate clearly;
• deal with the general public in a positive and professional manner;
• perform a variety of clerical work involving use of independent judgment, accuracy, and speed;
• type at a corrected speed of 40 words per minute;
• understand the basic operations of a computer system and operate computer quickly and accurately during stressful situations;
• remember and perform multiple tasks simultaneously;
• understand and carry out oral and written directions;
• establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others;
• meet the public tactfully and courteously and furnish routine information;
• perform duties without direct supervision.

Education

• Completion of twelfth grade or equivalent;
• business and secretarial courses;
• college preferred but not required.

Experience

• One year office experience in a clerical and/or dispatch position requiring public contact.

Dispatchers work the following rotating shifts (rotation occurs every three months):