Job Description
Are you ready to make a tangible difference in your community? The Durham Police Department is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Police Dispatcher Trainee to join our dedicated Communications team. This is a Direct Hire opportunity for individuals eager to start a rewarding career in public safety. As a Trainee, you will receive comprehensive training on emergency communications protocols, CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch) systems, and crisis intervention techniques.
Our dispatchers are the lifeline between the public and our officers. You will play a critical role in ensuring rapid response times and public safety. We offer a supportive work environment, competitive benefits, and a clear path for advancement within the department. If you possess a calm demeanor under pressure and excellent communication skills, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities
- Receive, screen, and process emergency (911) and non-emergency calls from the public, accurately recording all relevant information.
- Dispatch law enforcement, fire, and medical units to incident scenes in accordance with established protocols and priorities.
- Monitor radio frequencies and digital communication systems to maintain situational awareness of ongoing operations.
- Enter and maintain accurate records in the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and Records Management System (RMS).
- Provide critical information to field units, including weather updates, road conditions, and officer safety information.
- Communicate with other agencies, hospitals, and utility companies to coordinate responses during large-scale incidents.
- Perform administrative duties such as filing reports, answering phones, and assisting the communications supervisor with daily operations.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate's degree or certification in Emergency Medical Services or Criminal Justice preferred.
- Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to speak clearly and concisely over radio/telephone.
- Ability to multitask effectively while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Strong computer proficiency, including experience with Windows-based operating systems and data entry.
- Calm demeanor and the ability to remain composed in high-stress, emergency situations.
- Willingness to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.