Police Communications Dispatcher (Lateral)

The City of Avondale is accepting Lateral applications for the position of Police Communications Dispatcher assigned to the Avondale Police Department. This is a full-time, FLSA non-exempt position, with benefits. Important: To be considered a Lateral applicant, you must have been working in a public safety communications (Police, Fire, Medical) position within the last twelve (12) months. Lateral applicants are not required to take the National Testing Network's Emergency Communications Test. Answers 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for the Avondale Police Department and facilitates fire and medical assistance as appropriate. Obtains accurate, essential information to process each call according to established protocols; uses a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to enter all relevant information for dispatch. Essential Functions Monitors assigned radio channels; dispatches calls and information to police units via CAD and the radio system; maintains an accurate status and location of police units, maintains a computerized log of calls for service and units dispatched. Provides excellent customer service at all times. Dispatches responders by communicating information to police officers as well as facilitating needed medical and fire emergency services to people in distress. Must be able to multitask at a high level while utilizing the radio and phone system while simultaneously entering information into the computer-aided dispatch system. Must maintain accurate and up-to-date information on every call for service. Supports officers by looking up information in several computer systems, searching for data including vehicle information and warrants; monitors radio traffic, city alarm systems, and security cameras and dispatches emergency responders as appropriate to ensure Officer's safety. Maintains critical records by entering, clearing, and verifying all warrants, missing persons, stolen articles, stolen vehicles; and enters property into computer systems and completes all necessary paperwork. Must be able to operate and maintain various office equipment including multiple computers, printers, copy/fax machines, and phone systems at a high level. Performs tactical dispatch for SWAT team responding to incidents, as assigned. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications High School diploma or GED equivalent is required. Work requires the knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes. Two (2) years of customer service experience is preferred. Terminal Operator Certification (TOC) within 6 months of hire; renew every 2 years. Passing pre-employment screening, including thorough background investigation, polygraph and psychological examination and drug screening test.