Title:  PSAP Emergency Communications Dispatcher I - Williston

Application Deadline Date:  11/01/2024
Req ID:  49347
Department:  Public Safety
Location: 

Williston, VT, US

Position Type:  Permanent
Schedule Type:  Full Time
Hourly Rate:  $27.32

Overview

Watch a short video on being a PSAP Emergency Communications Dispatcher I.

 

Are you looking for a career that serves the community? Are you a highly motivated individual that enjoys a fast paced, team-oriented environment? Do you have customer service or call center experience? Apply now for this opportunity to expand your career and be the voice of the Vermont State Police!

 

Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process must pass testing before they are considered for an interview. Visit this site for more information about the test. A test prep guide will be emailed to applicants if selected.

 

$5,000 Hiring Bonus for New Hires!
When funding is available, all new full-time Emergency Communications Dispatchers will receive a hiring bonus of $5,000 as follows:

  • $1,000 will be awarded upon successful completion of the first pay period.
  • $1,500 will be awarded upon successful completion of the training program.
  • $2,500 will be awarded upon successful completion of one year of service.

 

Job Summary
An Emergency Communications Dispatcher (ECD) receives voice and text requests for police, fire, and medical services. The incumbent in this position determines the nature, urgency, and jurisdiction of a report and either dispatches first responders or transfers the call to the appropriate jurisdiction. The ECD documents information in Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software and provides updates via phone or radio as needed. The ECD provides guidance and assistance to the public in life-safety situations; and coordinates appropriate responses to high-risk, high-stress operations, with the objective of keeping all participants safe. 

 

Training
A new hire will go through a lengthy, structured training program to learn Vermont State Police and E911 policy and procedures for handling emergent and non-emergent calls as well as other PSAP related responsibilities. The average training program lasts approximately 5 months.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to quickly and accurately transcribe radio and telephone messages.
  • Ability to remember details.
  • Ability to operate various software and computers.
  • Ability to operate 2-way radio and other communication systems.
  • Visit this site for the full list.

Who May Apply

This position, PSAP Emergency Communications Dispatcher I (Job Opening #49347), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Michelle Hunt at michelle.c.hunt@vermont.gov.

Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

 

PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).

Environmental Factors

Due to the nature of this work, candidates with 100% loss of sight, hearing ability, or with major speech impediments will not be considered. Eligibility determination of candidates with a less severe disability will be made on an individual basis.  Depending on the needs of the department, mandatory overtime may be necessary. The work is performed in an office environment at a computer workstation using different desktop computer systems, answering multiple phone lines and radio channels to process emergent and non-emergent calls for service. Employees regularly interact with extremely distressed individuals and unpleasant situations in graphic detail. Workload can change at a moment’s notice and the incumbent needs to be able to react calmly.  

 

The work environment includes mandatory overtime; rotating shifts covering 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays; frequent changes in multi-jurisdictional policies and procedures, and changes in equipment. Physical ability to perform the essential functions of the job including frequently remain stationary for long periods of time; frequently operate a computer and other office machinery such as a keyboard, mouse, phone, and fax machine; receive and communicate accurate information in a stressful or confrontational environment.

Minimum Qualifications

One (1) year or more of experience in public safety, first response, or as an emergency dispatcher or telecommunicator. 
OR
Two (2) or more years of experience as a non-emergency dispatcher, or in a customer service or administrative role that includes significant contact with the public.

Preferred Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
Vermont E911 Call Taker Certification.
Experience running license, registration, and criminal history queries.
Experience entering NCIC information.
Experience as a First Responder.

Special Requirements

Performance requirement: Applicants must pass a Department of Public Safety administered computer based "CritiCall" test, which assesses computer and other job related skills.
Certification by the E-911 Board as a telecommunicator may be required within six months of entry into the job.
All candidates must pass a security clearance conducted by the Department of Public Safety.

Additional Benefits for PSAP ECDs

In addition to the generous state employment package, PSAP employees receive the following compensation opportunities:

  • Built-in overtime 
  • Recruitment Awards
  • Promotion eligibility after 2 years, which would also include a differential for training new hires

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

  • 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
  • Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
  • State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
  • Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
  • Low cost group life insurance
  • Incentive-based Wellness Program
  • Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.