Emergency Communications Call Takers & Dispatchers

Emergency Communications Call takers and Dispatchers are often called upon to make life and death decisions, and must do so quickly and effectively. Call takers and Dispatchers must be able to work independently with little direction from floor supervisors, listen to and accurately record information provided by citizens, police, fire and medical personnel and performs multiple tasks at the same time.  Call takers answer and process 911 calls and must be able to deal effectively with people who are hysterical, frightened, abusive, non-English speaking, and/or intoxicated.  Dispatchers dispatch police, fire, and emergency medical field units and must be able to communicate effectively and clearly with field units over the radio, while maintaining an accurate status in the computer.  Work is often performed under stressful demands for speed and accuracy.  The ability to work any shift, on any day, and to work overtime are essential functions of the job.