Dispatcher I

GRADE 2114
Pay Range $46,446 - $67,787

General Description

The purpose of this position is to learn the proper methods of receiving, handling and processing emergency and non-emergency calls received through the enhanced 911 phone equipment at a trainee level; dispatches fire, rescue, and emergency medical units to all residents and non-residents.This position works under close supervision according to set procedures.

Duties & Responsibilities

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions as necessary.

  • Receives numerous emergency and non-emergency calls.
  • Determines the exact location of the emergency incident and dispatches the proper response agency and equipment.
  • Dispatches additional fire equipment or personnel when circumstances require.
  • Dispatches Delaware State Police helicopter/paramedic service on medical emergencies.
  • Maintains a constant update of all mobile units in service in the field, showing their status, location, and fire ground conditions.
  • Assists fire, rescue, emergency medical, government and private agency officials in the field with special logistical support information such as hazardous materials, water supply, location of handicapped individuals, mutual aid support, and/or evacuation plans.
  • Contacts appropriate utility companies to shut off services in emergency situations when necessary.
  • Relays and/or ties in through radio/telephone communications all basic and advanced life support ambulances to the appropriate medical facility and monitors same for channel control.
  • Provides scene safety and potentially life-saving instructions.
  • Maintains logs/records and collect data.
  • Monitors fire, security, and other alarms in Kent County.
  • Operates logging recorder.
  • Provides back-up service for the City of Dover Fire Department.
  • Performs related work as required.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent.

Additional Requirements

Some knowledge of the geographic area, streets, rural roads, and highway system of the County; Some knowledge of Federal and State regulations governing radio transmissions; Alertness and skill in detecting the scope and magnitude of an emergency; Ability to communicate effectively and to work under confining conditions; Ability to use approved radio equipment and computer systems with pertinent applications; Ability to use GIS computer applications; Regular and timely attendance; Performance of duties in a safe manner.

Physical 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 accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • This is very heavy work requiring exertion more than 100 pounds of force occasionally, More than 50 pounds of force frequently, and in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, and repetitive motions.
  • Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels.
  • Physical attendance at work site is required to perform manual tasks, Provide immediate service to onsite customers and supervise or interact with work groups.
  • Visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, night vision, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arm’s length, Operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities.
  • Mental acuity is required to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes.
  • The worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, noise, vibration, hazards, atmospheric conditions, and oils.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Essential Functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

Special Certifications and License Requirements

  • May be required to pass standardized examination to determine basic knowledge, skills & abilities.
  • Must achieve with 12 months of hire and retain Emergency Medical, Emergency Fire and Emergency Police Dispatch certifications.
  • Must achieve with 6 months of hire and maintain CPR/AED Certification.

Notices

Kent County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S. C. 12101 et. seq.), Kent County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This is an employment at-will position.

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