Job Description
Join the Front Line of Public Safety in Austin, TX
The City of Austin is urgently seeking dedicated and detail-oriented individuals to join our team as Police Dispatcher Trainees. As a vital member of the Emergency Communications Department, you will be the critical link between the community and law enforcement. In this entry-level trainee role, you will receive comprehensive on-the-job training to master the art of emergency response coordination, radio communication, and crisis management.
This is a unique opportunity to launch a stable, rewarding career in public service with excellent benefits, career progression, and the satisfaction of knowing you are saving lives every day.
Responsibilities
- Learn Emergency Response Protocols: Receive intensive training to effectively coordinate emergency police, fire, and medical responses.
- Monitor Communication Systems: Constantly monitor radio frequencies and communication lines to receive and dispatch emergency calls.
- Information Gathering: Collect and accurately record essential details from callers, including location, nature of the incident, and descriptions of suspects or vehicles.
- Unit Coordination: Dispatch police units and resources to the scene, ensuring optimal coverage and response times.
- Database Management: Update and maintain accurate records of calls, reports, and field units within the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
- Emergency Triage: Provide pre-arrival instructions to callers to ensure safety while awaiting the arrival of first responders.
- Multi-Tasking: Handle multiple radio channels and phone lines simultaneously without losing focus or accuracy.
Qualifications
- Education: High School Diploma or GED required; coursework in criminal justice or communications is a plus.
- Training: Successful completion of the Police Dispatcher Trainee training program and certification.
- Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a professional demeanor.
- Typing Proficiency: Ability to type at least 35-40 words per minute accurately.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to remain in a stationary position for long periods; ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 lbs.
- Background: Must pass a comprehensive background check, including criminal history and drug screening.
- Stress Tolerance: Ability to remain calm and make quick decisions under high-pressure and stressful situations.