Dispatch/Operations Specialist

Purpose Coordinates dispatching functions for Metro Parks and supports specialized functions within the Operations Department.

Example of Duties Performs and coordinates the dispatching function of Metro Parks, including developing assigned dispatching schedules to maximize dedicated dispatch operations.

Provides guidance, training, feedback, instruction, and functional supervision of Park Rangers when they are assigned to dispatching functions.

Maintains and reviews dispatching logs to ensure accuracy and completion.

Responds to requests for dispatch log information from parks and outside agencies.

Follows-up on inquiries requiring additional information.

Trains new Park Rangers on dispatching functions, including expectations, systems, methods, and requirements.

May instruct during in-service training relative to the dispatching/communications program.

Evaluates and ensures that dispatch equipment is operational and coordinates any needed repairs to equipment.

Works with vendors.

Drafts and recommends changes in policies and procedures relative to the dispatch function and communication endeavors.

Ensure appropriate records, including dispatch logs and training records, are maintenance consistent with established programs and guidelines.

Serves as lead dispatcher for assigned special events, critical incidents, and other situations when Incident Command Management (ICM) is activated.

Serves as a coordinator with the unhoused population.

Connects unhoused population to appropriate resources.

Trains staff regarding best practices and procedures.

Assist in coordinating Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs), radios, and LEADS programs, including purchasing, maintaining, and arranging for repairs, and updating equipment and software.

Ensures staff are properly trained in the use of MDTs and in compliance with established policies.

Ensures necessary certifications are up to date with outside agencies.

Assists in the management and coordination of the security camera program; serves as a resource on the use of cameras in investigations; troubleshoots and reports issues with security cameras throughout Metro Parks.

Prepares criminal analysis and other statistical reports; analyzes data and logs looking for patterns or trends in criminal activity within Metro Parks.

Serves as a liaison with other agencies, including Franklin County Sherriff's office and Columbus Police, relative to communication activities.

Oversees evidence lockers and lost & found programs throughout Metro Parks.

Serves as a liaison with outside organizations as needed.

Engages with visitors, addresses complaints, and activating responses from outside agencies as situations warrant.

May be assigned to work special events and major public programs.

May assist Human Resources and Ranger staff in conducting background investigations.

Performs all other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age.

Education/Experience: Associate's degree or above in Natural Resources Management, Natural Resources Law Enforcement, Parks and Recreation, or equivalent combination of related education and experience.

Experience with dispatching required.

Experience working with the public required.

Experience working in a park setting desired.

Language Skills: Ability to communicate effectively and courteously through speech and in writing with coworkers, supervisors, local law enforcement agencies, and the general public on a daily basis.

Team-Oriented: Works on a team.

Outstanding customer service, communications and interpersonal skills.

Attendance: Being present at work is an essential function of the position.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to calculate fractions, decimals, and percentages.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to quickly recognize and assess conditions/situations and take appropriate actions; define problems, collect data and draw valid conclusions; ability to make sound decisions quickly, and logically approach a situation.

Licenses, Registrations: Possession of a valid Ohio driver license, insurable by Metro Possession of valid First Aid/CPR/AED certification and completion of OC chemical spray class within twelve (12) months of employment.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, talk and hear, operate two-way radio, sit, work with hands, drive park vehicles.

The employee is frequently required to use hands to complete reports, use personal computers, etc.

Work Environment: While performing the regular duties of this job, the employee may work both inside in an office environment and outside in a variety of weather conditions.

The noise level in either work environment is usually moderate.

Attention to Detail: Ability to complete routine forms, reports, and memos accurately and efficiently.

Other Information The above Description represents the essential and most significant duties of this position.

It is not intended to exclude other work duties, assignments and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks has a longstanding commitment to provide a safe, quality-oriented and productive work environment.

Alcohol and drug abuse pose a threat to the health and safety of Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks' employees and to the security of the organization's equipment and facilities.

For these reasons, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment.

Supervision Received: Scioto Audubon Park Manager.

Given: Functional supervision of all levels of Park Rangers involved in dispatching functions.

FLSA Status Given the nature of this classification's duties/responsibilities, it has been designated as Non-Exempt under the governing Fair Labor Standards Act and, therefore, is entitled to formal overtime compensation and/or formal compensatory time.

Core Values Attendance: Is at work as scheduled; reports to work on time; follows proper procedures for requesting leave or calling off.

Policies & Procedures: Follows established policies and procedures; inquires of supervisor if unclear on policy/procedure, includes following safety policies, procedures and protocols.

Professionalism: Handles the responsibilities of the position in an effective manner; maintains integrity and appropriate behavior in dealing with conflicts and challenges with the public, co-workers, and managers; offers differing points of view in an acceptable manner.

Team Player: Supports other members of the organization in accomplishing their goals and projects; recognizes and credits others for their contribution in achieving goals.

Positive Attitude: Supports Metro Parks established priorities at all times; cultivates team environment; exhibits enthusiasm while carrying out responsibilities; looks for solutions to work conflicts and challenges.

Productivity: Thoroughly completes work in a timely manner; organizes and plans assignments well or follows supervisory instructions well with little explanation; follows-up as needed.

Quality: Demonstrates technical competence, meets job expectations; completes assignments with few errors.

Initiative: Does not wait to be told what to do; appropriately makes suggestions for improvements; does not hesitate when things do not go according to routine and quickly adjust to meet exceptions.

Interpersonal Communication: Interacts with others with tact and courtesy; communicates clearly and effectively; shares information with supervisor or coworkers to achieve goals; responsive to the public.