Public Safety Dispatcher- Entry-Level

Description The City of Laguna Beach Police Department is accepting applications for the position ofPublic Safety Dispatcher - Entry Level.

A 5% Cost of Living Increase is scheduled for 01/01/2024.

The Position:Under the general supervision of a Police Sergeant, dispatches public safety equipment and personnel (Police, Fire and Marine Safety) in response to requests for service using telephone, computer, and radio communications systems.

Responds to emergency calls for public safety service(s) requiring independent judgment as to a course of action where unprecedented situations may arise; performs a variety of general support duties related to communication activities including recordkeeping, typing, monitoring alarm systems and teletype communications; performs related duties as assigned.

Reports to/Supervises:Reports to the Support Services Supervisor and in his or her absence, reports to the shift Watch Commander.

In the Chain of Command structure, the Public Safety Dispatcher ultimately report to the Support Services Division Commander (Captain or Lieutenant), excluding issues where the chain of command might be circumvented.

Required Competencies: * Handling Stress * Decision Making * Listening * Oral Communication * Attention to Detail * Integrity and Ethics * Analyzing & Interpreting Data * Critical Thinking * Using Technology * Adaptability * Self-Management * Legal & Regulatory Navigation * Handling Conflict * Teamwork Selection Process:All interested applicants must submit a completed online city application.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis.

The selection process will include the following components: * Peace Officer Standards & Training (P.O.S.T.) Public Safety Dispatcher Entry-Level Test(in compliance with P.O.S.T.

standards, the exam evaluates verbal, reasoning, memory, and perceptual abilities) * Structured Panel Interview- Applicants must pass the P.O.S.T.

Public Safety Dispatcher Entry-Level Test to be invited to the Structured Panel Interview * Applicants that have a valid P.O.S.T Public Safety Dispatcher training certification may be exempt from taking the P.O.S.T.

Public Safety Dispatcher exam.

Applicants who have successfully completed the P.O.S.T.

Entry-level Dispatch Exam through another public safety agency within twelve (12) months of application may be excused from taking the P.O.S.T.

Public Safety Dispatcher exam.

Written verification of this test score must be submitted to Human Resources for review prior to the date of the written exam.

Those recommended for further evaluation will undergo a department interview with City staff.

Based on the Department's needs, the selection process listed may be modified.

Candidates will be notified via e-mail of any changes in the selection process.

Pre-Placement Process: All prospective candidates must successfully pass a background security investigation, polygraph examination, pre-employment physical examination including a drug test, and a psychological examination.

Examples of Duties The following duties are normal for this position.

These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.

Other duties may be required and assigned.

* Receives, screens and transmits public safety calls via telephone and radio communications systems * Dispatches public safety personnel and equipment (Police, Fire and Marine Safety) in response to requests for service * Performs intensive data inputting of information received via computer keyboard * Types departmental reports and initiates forms related to the operation and procedures of the Records Division * Completes reports and complaints for court prosecution * May make personal searches of prisoners * Initiates and sends messages and requests for information on law enforcement computer systems * Employee has considerable contact over the radio and telephone with public safety employees in the field and the general public, frequently in emotionally stressful situations * Works evening, weekend and holiday shifts as assigned Qualifications Any combination demonstrating the ability to effectively and successfully perform the duties of the position is considered qualifying.

A typical combination is as follows: Education: Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Experience: Two (2) years of experience in clerical and public contact work is required.

Typing speed of at least 30 wpm is required (Note: typing certifications are not required to apply, but will be required at a later date.) License/ of any certification and/or license relevant to the position of public safety dispatcher is preferred.

Supplemental Information Knowledge of: * Office procedures and methods Ability to: * Keep basic records and type on a computer * Work shifts, including evenings/nights and weekends (minimum of 48 hours a month) * Learn the rules of the Federal Communications Commission regarding radio transmissions * Work under stressful situations and exercise good judgment in emergencies * Accurately record and retain data given verbally Skills: * Possess a clear speaking voice and an excellent memory * Capable of making rapid and appropriate decisions * Constant alertness and attention to detail when dealing with the public and dispatching personnel and equipment Laguna Beach: With seven miles of City beaches and towering hills with captivating Pacific views, Laguna Beach residents enjoy some of the most stunning landscapes in Southern California.

The City ofLaguna Beach hosts millions of visitors to its world-famous arts festivals and beautiful beaches.

Services provided to its resident population of approximately 23,000 include police, fire, marine safety, recreation, parks, public works, community development, parking, transit and animal control.

The Department:The Police Department is organized into two divisions (Support Services, and Investigative and Field Services), and provides general law enforcement services, including animal control.