The Town of Dedham seeks highly qualified candidates for the position of Civilian Dispatcher (Night Shift 11:30 pm - 7:30 am) to perform highly responsible administrative and technical work dispatching fire and police.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma.
- One year experience in responsible position involving work with the public.
- Some communications experience helpful.
Special Requirements
- Certified in enhanced 911 systems through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- Certification in CPR, first aid, and police and fire dispatch.
- Certification by state Criminal History Systems Board
- LEAPS and PAMET certification.
Knowledge, Ability and Skill
- Working knowledge of layout of Town and surrounding communities.
- Familiarity with related rules, regulations, orders, policies and procedures.
- Working knowledge of computers and electronic data processing; ability to type and operate computer at efficient speed.
- Basic understanding of emergency operations and familiarity with Town By-Laws.
- Ability to learn communications systems’ techniques; handle emergency situations calmly, promptly and efficiently while under stress and think clearly in a crisis situation.
- Ability to read, write and speak English clearly and give clear directions over the radio and phone.
- Ability to attend to a number of details occurring simultaneously.
- Excellent communications skills.
Essential Functions of the Job
- Receives requests for routine, public safety and emergency services; dispatches safety, service and other appropriate personnel to calls as required; coordinates back-up support activities via radio.
- Determines priorities among calls for service; keeps supervisory personnel aware of priority calls and equipment status.
- Answers all incoming calls; receives pertinent information and provides assistance or makes referrals.
- Maintains constant and diligent monitoring of the radio system.
- Maintains police and fire incident reporting on computer-aided dispatching systems; performs data entry on computer to enter service calls ensuring that entries are concise and accurate.
- Updates files, and maintains accurate, detailed records, logs and other pertinent information.
- Communicates via telephone or radio with other agencies, such as utility companies, alarm services, ambulance companies, highway departments, towing agencies, hospitals, etc.
- Participates in training, developing competency in all phases of dispatching, including the operation of computer aided dispatch system.
- Performs similar or related work as required, or as situation dictates.
Job Environment/Physical and Mental Demands
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. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The physical demands include standing, walking, reaching, writing, listening, speaking, seeing and the ability to type and operate controls on the equipment. The employee is required to have the cognitive ability and focus and manage multiple detailed tasks. The employee may be subject to mental and emotional situations and exposure to stress and vicarious trauma that require mental resilience.
How to Apply
Please email your resume and cover letter to Recruiting@Dedham-ma.gov.
Additional Information
The Town of Dedham offers an excellent benefits package including a defined benefit pension plan, 457 retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, 12 week paid parental leave, 80% subsidized health insurance, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability, accident insurance, and critical illness insurance. Employees enjoy 12 holidays, 15 sick days, 3 personal days, longevity days, and vacation starting at 3 weeks and up to 5 weeks.
The Town of Dedham is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate our diverse community by respecting and appreciating our individual differences. Our inclusive culture energizes all of us to belong, collaborate, and grow.
