FT/PT Police Dispatcher
GetBadgedJob Description The Voice Behind the Badge: When every second counts, be the one who makes the difference! Image The Arlington Police Department is looking for dedicated, quick-thinking individuals to join its team as Public Safety Dispatchers! When an emergency strikes, you’re the first voice someone hears and the critical connection between those who need help and the officers responding. It’s a fast-paced, high-responsibility role where your ability to stay calm, think clearly, and make split-second decisions can make all the difference. Serving a vibrant, close-knit community just outside Boston, Arlington’s dispatchers play an essential role in protecting the residents, families, businesses, and neighborhoods that make this town such a special place to live and work. We’re looking for individuals who can handle the pressure, communicate with confidence, and take pride in being the steady voice during someone else’s most difficult moments. You may not wear the badge or patrol the streets, but you’re an essential part of every response. Your voice. Their lifeline. One incredible opportunity to serve. Minimum Requirements The Arlington Police Department encourages candidates who possess the following preferred qualifications, skills, and experience to apply. While not mandatory, these qualifications may strengthen a candidate’s application and consideration for employment. Education And Experience High school diploma; two years of experience in a responsible position involving work with the public; some work experience in emergency services is helpful; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional Requirements Certified in enhanced 9-1-1 systems in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Ability to obtain and maintain EMD certification. Knowledge, Ability and Skill: Working knowledge of the layout of the town, as well as local businesses and landmarks. Familiarity with related rules, regulations, orders, policies and procedures. Working knowledge of computers and electronic data processing. Working knowledge of modern office practices and procedures. Basic understanding of the police and fire departments’ operations and familiarity with town bylaws. Ability to learn communications systems' techniques. Ability to handle emergency situations calmly, promptly and efficiently while under stress. Ability to think clearly in a crisis situation. Ability to elicit needed information from a caller who may be a child, injured or incapacitated. Ability to read, write and speak English clearly and give clear directions over the radio and telephone. Ability to attend to a number of details occurring simultaneously and do so with accuracy. Must be able to type and operate computer at efficient speed. Skill in record keeping. Physical Requirements Minimal physical effort is generally required. Ability to operate a keyboard and sit at the computer and dispatching equipment for long periods of time. Ability to operate dispatching equipment and all other related emergency equipment at efficient speed. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Additional Qualifications Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Takes incoming calls of an emergency, non-emergency, or business nature; obtains all pertinent information; relays information to public safety personnel involved in the situation. Dispatches safety, service, and other appropriate personnel to calls, as required; coordinates back-up suppo…