Job Description
Are you ready to serve your community and start a rewarding career in public safety? The City of Lexington is currently accepting applications for Police Dispatcher Trainees. This is an exceptional entry-level opportunity offering a comprehensive paid training program to prepare you for a critical role in our Emergency Communications Center.
As a Police Dispatcher, you will serve as the first point of contact for citizens in need. You will be the vital link between the public and our first responders, requiring a calm demeanor, quick thinking, and exceptional multitasking abilities. We are looking for motivated individuals who are ready to learn, grow, and make a real difference in the lives of Lexington residents.
Responsibilities
- Answer and Process Calls: Receive emergency and non-emergency calls, assess situations accurately, and provide clear instructions to callers.
- Dispatch Coordination: Utilize Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems to allocate police, fire, and EMS units to incidents efficiently.
- Data Entry: Maintain precise and up-to-date records of all calls, incidents, and officer status in the departmental database.
- Communication Management: Facilitate effective two-way communication between field units, command staff, and the public during high-pressure situations.
- Unit Status Monitoring: Monitor the status of patrol units and other emergency vehicles to ensure optimal coverage of the city.
- Training Compliance: Complete all mandatory classroom instruction and on-the-job training to achieve full dispatcher certification.
Qualifications
- Education: High School Diploma or GED is required; completion of college coursework is a plus.
- Communication Skills: Superior verbal and written communication skills with the ability to speak clearly and concisely under stress.
- Typing Proficiency: Ability to type at least 35-40 words per minute with high accuracy.
- Experience: Previous experience in customer service, call centers, or dispatch operations is preferred but not mandatory for this trainee role.
- License: Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record required.
- Background: Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including criminal history and drug screening.
- Technology: Basic computer literacy and the eagerness to learn new software applications.