The Dispatcher receives and coordinates emergency and non-emergency calls for service, ensuring timely and accurate communication between the public, first responders, and other agencies. This position plays a critical role in supporting community safety through effective call handling, radio communication, and information management in a fast-paced environment. The Dispatcher serves as the first point of contact in emergency and non-emergency situations, connecting the community with essential public safety services.
Mission: The City provides services that promote a safe and welcoming environment, support sustainable growth, and strengthen community for today and tomorrow.
Vision : Blue Springs is a growing community with the heart of a small town, driven by big opportunities and a commitment to a high quality of life for all.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Emergency Call Handling - Receives and processes emergency and non-emergency calls for service, including police, animal control, fire, and ambulance. Dispatches appropriate personnel and resources for police calls using radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems. Transfers fire and EMS calls to the appropriate communication center for response and dispatch.
• Documentation and Reporting - Accurately files, maintains, and retrieves reports and records in accordance with departmental procedures and legal requirements.
• Radio and System Monitoring - Monitors local, county, and state law enforcement, fire protection, and public service radio frequencies to maintain situational awareness and coordinate communication as needed.
• Law Enforcement Information Systems Operates, queries, enters, and retrieves data from law enforcement information systems while maintaining strict confidentiality of all sensitive information.
• Emergency Contact Records Maintains and updates the business emergency contact file to ensure accurate information is available for emergency response.
• Equipment Maintenance Performs basic maintenance and replacement of communication equipment as needed and reports any defects or malfunctions promptly.
• Customer Service and Information Routing Answers incoming telephone calls, provides routine departmental information, and routes inquiries to appropriate personnel or departments.
• After-Hours Support Receives and responds to after-hours service calls for City departments such as Streets, Water, and Parks, and notifies designated on-call personnel as required.
• Geographical Knowledge Maintains a thorough working knowledge of the City's geographical and jurisdictional boundaries to ensure accurate and efficient dispatching of services.
• Work Schedule and Readiness Works varied shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Must remain alert, focused, and in a state of readiness at all times to respond effectively to emergencies.
Knowledge of:
• Basic geography, including the location of streets, landmarks, and major buildings or areas requiring special police and fire protection services.
• Police Department practices, procedures, records systems, and reporting requirements.
Skill in:
• Computer and electronic data processing systems used in dispatch operations. Standard office procedures and equipment.
• Operating basic office equipment, computers, and multi-line phone systems.
• Accurately typing and entering data while maintaining focus and attention to detail.
• Using dispatch and law enforcement software systems effectively and efficiently.
Competencies:
• Ability to speak clearly in a well-modulated voice and to use good diction. Ability to accomplish oral and written instructions and interface effectively with the public and other employees. Ability to think and act quickly in emergency situations, maintain records, and prepare reports. Ability to multitask.
Education and Experience
• Required: High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Must receive Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES) certification (or similar necessary certification) within 6 months following date of hire and maintain certification while employed.
• Must be able to obtain notary within one year of employment.
• Six months to one year of experience in a related field with experience in telephone switchboard or high frequency radio operations preferred.
• Must pass a background investigation, drug screening, and required hearing/vision tests.
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Must be able to work a variety of shifts including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
• Must be able to sit for prolonged periods; must be able to listen to normal conversation; and use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; must be able to reach with hands and arms; must be able to have vision sufficient to see close up and have the ability to adjust focus; and, must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds and transport it 15 feet.
The City of Blue Springs is an equal opportunity employer. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier-free environment in which all individuals have access to the City's facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise Human Resources if you require accommodation.