Job Description
Are you looking for a rewarding career where you can make a tangible difference in your community every single day? The City of Seattle Department of Emergency Management is seeking a dedicated and resilient Police Dispatcher Trainee to join our elite communications team. This is a unique opportunity to enter the field of Public Safety with comprehensive training and the chance to support law enforcement and fire services in real-time.
As a Trainee, you will learn the critical skills required to manage high-pressure situations, coordinate emergency responses, and act as the vital link between the public and first responders. We offer a supportive work environment, competitive benefits, and a clear path for career advancement within the City of Seattle.
Why Join Us?
- Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in saving lives and protecting property.
- Training: Receive extensive on-the-job training and mentorship from seasoned professionals.
- Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy competitive shift differentials and scheduling flexibility.
Responsibilities
- Receive and prioritize incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, accurately assessing the nature and urgency of each situation.
- Dispatch police, fire, and medical units to incidents using Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, ensuring rapid response times.
- Monitor radio frequencies and surveillance equipment to maintain situational awareness of ongoing incidents.
- Enter and maintain accurate logs and records of all calls, dispatches, and unit activities in the CAD system.
- Provide critical information and instructions to first responders and callers during emergency situations.
- Coordinate with other dispatch centers and regional agencies during major events or multi-agency responses.
- Perform administrative duties as assigned, including answering phones and responding to inquiries.
Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively under pressure, with strong verbal and written skills.
- Valid Driver’s License with a safe driving record.
- Proficiency in typing and computer operations (basic computer literacy is required).
- Willingness to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call duties.
- Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful, high-stakes environments.