911 Dispatcher Job summary 1

Under direct supervision, the 911 Dispatcher performs radio and communications work in the Emergency Communications Center on an assigned shift. Answers Emergency 911 and non-emergency calls for service. Dispatches appropriate emergency personnel (i.e., Police, Fire, EMS, Animal Control, Public Works, Highway Department, etc.) and equipment to citizen complaints. Employee must exercise considerable tact and firmness in obtaining information from distressed persons. Employee must exercise independent judgment and initiative in receiving messages, responding to emergency situations, and dispatching calls. Reports to the Communications Lead Operator (Supervisor).

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 1

Spend a day with MetCom Dispatcher Sara Shover as she answers 911 calls, provides information to crews over the radio, provides a behind the scenes tour. Debra Stevens drowned in her car while on the phone with a 911 dispatcher. KFSM Reneau scolded her for not being more careful and for not knowing the area. 'This will teach you next time don't.

• Operates multi-line telephone system and telecommunication device for the deaf and hearing impaired (TDD) to receive, answer, screen, and process incoming calls for service.
• Responds calmly and tactfully to callers on Emergency 911 and non-emergency lines to obtain complete and accurate information for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Prioritizes calls for appropriate response.
• Operates radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control to calls for service. Monitors the status and location of field units. Relays messages and information to emergency response personnel using appropriate radio terminology, while adhering to the applicable Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations. Records transmitted information into CAD, as appropriate.
• Notifies other agencies needed to assist Police, Fire and EMS in emergencies.
• Monitors security alarms for businesses, court, schools, etc.
• Facilitates language interpretation between non-English speaking callers and interpreters to provide assistance needed.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to speak clearly and precisely over the telephone and radio.
• Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with employees, supervisors, and representatives from other departments and organizations.
• Performs various clerical duties, as necessary.
• Performs other related duties as required.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 1

• Graduation from high school or GED and some experience in clerical or communications work; or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Must obtain bi-annual CPR re-certification.
• Must obtain Emergency Medical Dispatch Training.
• Must hold or have the ability to acquire the Basic Dispatcher State Certification.
• Ability to obtain State certification.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 2

We are looking for a qualified applicant to fill the position of 911 Dispatcher. This position provides excellent benefits, including health insurance, retirement savings programs, wellness discounts and incentives, and many other great benefits such as paid leave time. Dispatchers are responsible for the processing of emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance received on 911.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 2

• Processes medical/fire 911 emergency notifications
• Inquiries and determines location and nature of emergency assistance requests
• Determines and sends proper responses based on location, unit status, and type of incident
• Obtains and provides specific information for responders to allow for immediate intervention upon arrival and to protect the safety of responders and the public
• Tracks unit location and availability continuously; facilitates dispersal of county emergency resources; anticipates additional resource needs by staging uncommitted units for depleted area coverage and/or response to working incidents; provides accurate documentation of call activity; maintains support resource files which indicate current street closings, hydrants unavailable, hospital patient acceptance capabilities, equipment resource lists, premise information files, and other pertinent information; observes and tests on-line and backup equipment and systems continuously.
• Articulates, promotes, and supports the Mission, Vision and Values of the department; provides answers and solutions for non-emergency requests for information and services; reviews and trains to maintain current levels of operations knowledge, stays abreast of continuous system changes, enhances knowledge, and learns new skills; provides input to enhance and improve department services to our customers and the public.
• Answers requests and completes connections; uses knowledge of call information and judgment skills proactively to activate trauma plan which includes timely notification of proper trauma center and additional resources; responds based on stated injuries, location, traffic concerns, time of day, and other pertinent information; determines and provides early weather warning information through activation of county alert sirens, radios, and pagers with accompanying alert information; provides command and control of responders until arrival on event scenes; deviates from guidelines and protocols to ensure proper outcomes of events.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 2

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Hearing and vision acuity and the ability to pass both an auditory (Audiogram) and vision test (Ishihara Color Vision and Vision Titmus near.far.color.perip) with or without reasonable accommodation and pass a drug screen prior to employment.
• International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED): Advanced Emergency Medical Dispatcher (Advanced EMD) and Emergency Fire Dispatcher (EFD at time of hire or certifications completed prior to conclusion of introductory period.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 3

This is a skilled and technical position responsible for answering all incoming emergency and non-emergency phone calls including the Enhanced 9-1-1 System. A 911 Dispatcher provides support for dispatch peers and reports to the 911 Shift Supervisor.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 3

• Public Contact and Relations Represents approximately 90% of the work hours. Assists with answering all incoming phone lines to include emergency 9-1-1 lines and all non-emergency lines. Able to prioritize and handle large volume of incoming calls. Able to prioritize information and calls based upon the pertinent information obtained.
• Remains calm to assist callers during incidents of volatile situations.
• Able to read various maps associated with geographic boundaries.
• Provides police and emergency assistance to the deaf community and demonstrates the ability to properly operate the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD). Respects human diversity and responds professionally in all situations.
• Perform any other related duties as required or assigned.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 3

• High school, plus specialized schooling and/or on the job education in a specific skill area; E.G. data processing, clerical/administrative, equipment operation, etc, plus 2 years related experience and/or training is preferred. Or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Successful completion of telecommunications course is required (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of the ETC Basic Telecommunications Certification training within sixty (60) days after employment
• Successful completion of the Call Taker Training Program (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of the FCIC/CJIS Training/Certification (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of CPR/EMD/EFD/EPD Certification (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of State of Florida PST Certification (within 1 year of employment)
• Successful completion of TTY Certification (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of FEMA IS 100 Certification (within 2 months of employment)
• Successful completion of FEMA IS 200 Certification (within 4 months of employment)
• Successful completion of FEMA IS 300 Certification (within 4 months of employment)
• Successful completion of FEMA IS 700 Certification (within 2 months of employment)

911 Dispatcher Job summary 4

We are seeking individuals with outstanding customer service and communication skills for the position of 911 Dispatcher. This is a great opportunity to launch a rewarding and exciting career. 911 Dispatchers serve as Call Receivers and Dispatchers.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 4

• Receive, prioritize, and route emergency and non-emergency calls (such as citizen concerns or complaints) from the public, transfer calls and calls received directly from other agencies.
• Enter non-emergent caller's information and dispatches according to priority or transfer/refer to the appropriate agency. Gather information from calling parties and enters the type, location, source and all information for emergency calls into Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System.
• Triage emergency requests for assistance. Relay pertinent information between responders via radio.
• Assign emergency response priority by determining whether immediate response could save lives or prevent crimes.
• Route calls for assistance to the correct Dispatcher or appropriate agency, communicate with emergency agencies.
• Retrieve information from State and National computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, stolen vehicles, restraining orders, criminal histories, parolees and other related information; relay information to officers in the field
• Manage multiple radio frequencies and radio communications simultaneously
• Communicate effectively with confused, upset, hostile, or distraught people by phone, while gathering the information necessary to send the correct responders and equipment to the scene.
• Communication center employees may hear and need to respond to graphic descriptions of violence and/or injury.
• Record information and maintain required logs, event cards and other forms during periods of computer aided dispatch down time.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 4

• Attention to detail and the ability to contextually shift from task to task is essential to the position
• Strong organization, flexibility, and ability to control personal emotional responses and act appropriately under high levels of stress
• Strong people skills and high level of customer service
• Follow moderately complex oral and written instructions and to speak the English language clearly and quickly with a well-modulated voice
• Effectively communicate in write using English grammar, spelling, punctuation
• Critical thinking skills, ability to act quickly in accordance with established policy and procedures and maintain composure under pressure
• Previous experience as a Call Receiver/Dispatcher for law enforcement 911 calls
• Experience communicating effectively and efficiently with the public in a fast-paced environment, under stressful conditions
• Knowledge of law enforcement terminology and/or experience in a public-safety setting
• Fluency in another languages such as: Spanish, Vietnamese, Somali, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Amharic, Arabic, Ukrainian)
• Call center experience
• Experience in the use of spreadsheets, and/or database management
• Typing speed of 55 words per minute or higher
• Experience using multi-line phone systems

911 Dispatcher Job summary 5

The 911 Dispatcher is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls for service over the telephone and by other means, employing appropriate call screening protocols, and responding to those calls by dispatching the appropriate public safety resources. This position is responsible for interaction with other public safety dispatch centers in the answering and transferring of calls and incident information, and for maintaining communications with field personnel in law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies. This position is required to respond appropriately to requests for services and information from field personnel. The 911 Dispatcher will report directly to the Shift Supervisor.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 5

• Processes incoming and outgoing emergency and non-emergency telephone calls, ensuring agency policy, procedures and goals are met.
• Dispatches and communicates with law enforcement, fire and EMS units, ensuring agency policy, procedures and goals are met.
• Provides Supervisor with input regarding policies and procedures pertaining to the operation of the communications center.
• Coordinates with Supervisor to implement changes in Center procedures.
• Speaks English clearly and verbally communicates effectively.
• Works effectively and calmly in a high stress environment.
• Maintains familiarity with the general geography of the communities served.
• Meets all training requirements of the Center.
• Participates in available professional development for center staff.
• Communicates in a positive manner with Supervisor and other center staff.
• Reports commendable performance or deficiencies or liability issues to Supervisor in a timely manner.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 5

• Knowledge of accepted call handling practices for public safety call takers with an emphasis on professionalism and high level of customer service.
• Familiarity with principles and practices of radio communications as well as the proper policies and procedures used in public safety dispatching with an emphasis on professionalism and high level of customer service.
• Knowledge of all aspects of operations of a public safety communications center.
• Communication facilities, equipment and management practices as they pertain to the operation of a public safety communications center.
• Technology systems utilized by a public safety communications center.
• Operational needs of public safety responders for law enforcement, fire and EMS.
• Agency’s geographical service areas and relationship/location of public safety responders.
• Practical working knowledge in public safety communications.
• High School Diploma (or equivalent).
• Two (2) years of proven paid experience in public safety communications (preferred).
• Three (3) years general work experience.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 6

We are immediately looking to fill several 911 Dispatcher positions. 911 Dispatchers perform more routine duties of radio dispatch for law enforcement, fire and ambulance services. 911 Dispatcher candidates will demonstrate the proven ability to work in a fast paced environment while performing multiple crucial tasks simultaneously.Rarely will you ever get a chance to meet the hundreds of people who call for help, yet they'll depend on your voice, your directions, and your knowledge to get through an emergency. No day is ever routine - one call may be a minor traffic accident, while the next is a frantic voice screaming for help. Both will be depending on your calm, firm voice and direction until help can arrive. Using state-of-the-art equipment and training, you'll provide the excellent service and security.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 6

• Receive business or emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, medical and other public service agencies.
• Screen information to determine nature of call, performs call classification, determines priority, jurisdiction and documents activity.
• Screen and prioritize telephone workload.
• Cognizant of workloads and specific systems status.
• Provide support and assistance in a team concept during day-to-day operations, critical or large scale incidents.
• Assist in the coordination of mutual aid incidents.
• Develop and foster a positive working rapport with direct and in-direct customers, the public and co-workers.
• Testify in court regarding legal proceeding related to dispatch call(s) received.
• Prepare and submit various reports such as incident reports.
• Develop and maintain working knowledge of highways, streets, buildings and major points of interest in the County and adjacent areas.
• Remain current on procedures for manual dispatch operations and communications Center evacuation.
• Provide off hours services as required.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

911 Operator Igg

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 6

• Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is a minimum of one year experience receiving and processing calls while involved in performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• English language, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• Customer service and interpersonal communications principles.
• Computer operation and use in office and Communications Center environments.
• Basic principles in communicating by means of face-to-face contact, telephone and/or data terminals.
• Various resources within the County in order to provide referrals to the public and public safety agencies.
• Speak, read and write English clearly.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, in English, both orally and in writing.
• Comprehend, interpret, relay and document information via telephone, computer software/ data terminals or other related technology.
• Screen and interpret general data and filter relevant information.
• Learn and operate Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Systems and other related technology.
• Read and interpret various mapping devices and relaying pertinent information.
• Work under pressure, exercising good judgment and common sense while making sound decisions in emergency situations.
• Perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Listen, understand and relay of information via telephone and in person.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 7

This position serves as 911 Dispatcher. The position monitors telephones and radio; enters and receives data from computer systems; maintains records, database and prepares reports; related work as required.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 7

• Operates telephone, radio and computer equipment in dispatching public safety resources and routing emergency and non-emergency calls to the appropriate agencies, with a high degree of accuracy. Observes and reports variations or malfunctions with dispatch equipment performance.
• Receives emergency and non-emergency call information; dispatch calls to the appropriate unit; maintains information on unit activities; accesses computer terminals to obtain, transmit, enter, clear and record information, including the law enforcement data system; maintains the status of field units; completes activity logs or run sheets to record activity of dispatched units; maintains telephone and radio logs.
• Relays and receives information from public and private organizations; notifies or activates other service agencies including Public Works, State Highway, Center for Living, etc.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 7

• Graduation from a senior level high school or GED equivalent is required.
• Customer service experience is preferred.
• Ability to: obtain knowledge of techniques, procedures and methods commonly used in the operation of a dispatch center including the dispatching process with two-way radios, computer terminal and multi-line telephone equipment.
• Ability to learn and retain: the terminology and procedures used by police, fire, emergency medical and other emergency services; the geography and address system of Wasco County and the ability to read and interpret location maps.
• Ability to: type accurately at a minimum of 35 wpm;
• Function effectively and with a high degree of accuracy in stressful situations while maintaining professional courtesy;
• Make prompt and appropriate decisions based on available information;
• Relay information accurately to reflect situation detail;
• Speak clearly and distinctly in a pleasant voice; deal tactfully with the general public;
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with co-workers and others you will come into contact within the performance of duties; have good organizational skills.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 8

The 911 Dispatcher is a highly technical position that answers 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, the interdepartmental calls from police, fire and ambulance services, and calls from other public safety agencies. Monitors computer screens, while efficiently gathering, prioritizing, and documenting caller information. Work requires the exercise of independent judgment and interpretation and is performed under general supervision with periodic review for accuracy and adherence to standards.The 911 Dispatcher provides callers with the appropriate advice or referral, or initiate police, fire, and/or emergency medical (EMS) services to the caller. Dispatches law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel by Operating Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), two-way radio, and other sophisticated communications equipment systems.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 8

• The 911 Public Safety Dispatcher is a highly technical position responsible for receiving, prioritizing and dispatching emergency and public safety service to the public.
• Work requires the exercise of sound independent judgment conducted in a fast paced environment.
• Work is performed under general supervision of a PSAP Coordinator with periodic review for accuracy and adherence to standards.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 8

• Prior experience in public safety dispatching (lateral pay for current dispatchers will be considered); or two years of customer service experience in a fast-paced environment, or an associate's degree in a law enforcement related field of study.
• A keyboarding exam with a minimum of 50 WPM is required. Candidates with one year of current dispatch experience may request a waiver of the 55 WPM keyboarding test.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 9

We are looking for an experienced 911 Dispatcher.

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 9

• Answers emergency and non-emergency telephone requests for law enforcement, fire, and medical services.
• Operates computer-aided dispatch equipment (CAD) by entering call information and dispatching deputies and officers to emergency and non-emergency situations.
• Monitors patrol member's status; notifies on-call personnel; assigns cover cars or requests mutual aid to situations that may be critical and/or threatening.
• Utilizes computer/teletype systems to query and enter operational data; relays information to patrol as required.
• Searches available and appropriate resources to locate and relay operational data and information to Patrol personnel.
• Uses various maps and mapping resources to determine jurisdictions and to properly identify call locations.
• Records and maintains patrol line-ups to correctly reflect Patrol personnel on duty and corresponding assigned vehicle.
• Monitors County alarm systems.
• Answers Agency business telephone calls; provides routine data and information to telephone inquiries; may transfer/direct inquiries to proper agency staff; may refer telephone calls to responsible outside state, court, agencies, departments, or individuals.
• May maintain radio communication monitoring with outside law enforcement agencies.
• May assist in conducting training of new Communications Technicians.
• Operates computers and standard office equipment including commonly used computer software programs.
• Is committed to a high standard of safety laws and all of the Sheriff's Office policies and rules and must be willing to report safety violations and potential safety violations to appropriate supervisory or management personnel.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 9

• Knowledge of computer aided dispatch equipment (CAD).
• Knowledge of and ability to operate CCIC/NCIC.
• Ability to operate computer aided dispatch equipment (CAD).
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to communicate effectively with angry, emotional and excited persons via telephone.
• Ability to remain calm under urgency circumstances.
• Ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written English.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, fellow workers and the general public.
• Ability to listen, talk and type all at the same time.
• Ability to distinguish different auditory tones.
• Ability to track multiple pieces of information at one time and conduct follow-up as necessary.
• Ability to interact in a professional manner with all staff.
• Ability to act and react to emergency and/or threatening situations in a manner consistent with the law, policies and procedures.
• Ability to apply sound reasoning and decision-making.
• Ability to operate computers and commonly used computer software programs, as well as any other standard office equipment as required by position.
• High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
• One (1) year of general public safety experience.

911 Dispatcher Job summary 10

We are looking for the 911 Dispatcher.

911 Operator Jobs Near Me

911 Dispatcher Duties & Responsibilities 10

• Train to receive and evaluate 911 calls and on-emergency calls from the public requesting law enforcement, fire, and/or medical emergency assistance.
• Train to input and transmit call information using computer terminal keyboard.
• Refer callers to appropriate agencies.
• Contacts various parties to notify of complaints and/or actions required.
• Train to verify and/or input data as requested by officers in the field.
• Train to operate two-way radios to dispatch calls to various city and county units and receive/communicate information.
• Train to utilize multiple computer monitors from which to update and monitor call status, transmit and receive data.
• Train to notify different agencies of services requested by personnel in the field.
• Train to contact issuing police agencies by phone to confirm warrants and request written/oral confirmations.

911 Dispatcher Requirements & Skills 10

• Requires a High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum of six (6) months to one (1) year experience
• TCLEOSE Basic Telecommunication License, TLETS, NCIC/TCIC full access, Basic CPR Instructions with AED and First Aid, and TDD instruction all required within one (1) year of hire
• Customer service, dictation style typing preferred
• Must successfully complete all areas of training within one (1) year of hire, which includes passing a series of written examinations
• Must be able to communicate effectively (orally and in writing)
• Must be able to analyze data/information, make quick, accurate decisions under stressful situations

New Jersey has set statewide training standards for telecommunicators who work at Public Safety Answer Points, or PSAPs; these are the centers where 911 calls are first received. In some cases, these training mandates also apply to dispatchers who work at Public Safety Dispatch Points, or PSDPs.

Some mandates relate to a specific type of emergency dispatch: Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). EMDs dispatch emergency medical services and also carry out pre-arrival protocols.

Mandated training may take place over a course of days. An individual can be hired as a trainee before completing training, though some hiring agencies may state a preference for individuals who already hold certification.

Before hire, the individual will need to meet requirements set by the individual agency. In many cases, this is a governmental authority. A majority of New Jersey’s PSAPs and PSDPs operate at the county level. A majority are in law enforcement agencies, though there are various possible settings, including colleges. Some dispatchers work for the state police. Some work for health systems. In some settings, an individual will answer emergency and non-emergency calls or will perform dispatch and other security-related duties.

Higher education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, may offer additional opportunities and status in the Emergency Dispatcher field.

Select a New Jersey 911 Dispatcher Topic:

Meeting Entry-Level Requirements

Dispatchers typically need a high school diploma or GED. Occasionally, an employer will state a preference for individuals who have had some college coursework. Occasionally, an EMD service will state a preference for individuals who have had experience as emergency medical technicians.

The public safety dispatcher will need a broad skill set, whatever his or her educational level. The New Jersey Civil Service Commission lists job titles and basic requirements for state and local civil service positions. Skills include interacting with people in difficult circumstances, applying laws and regulations, operating programs and equipment, preparing reports and data, and communicating effectively. The knowledge base includes local geography as well as police, fire, and medical terminology, communications equipment, dispatch procedures, emergency management procedures, and chains of command.

Bilingualism can be a plus. Some job codes are used only for those who are bilingual in Spanish and English.

A prospective telecommunicator may need to take a typing test and/ or aptitude test.

Telecommunicator Training Requirements

Dispatchers who work at PSAPs must complete approved telecommunicator courses. Courses cover, at minimum, the following content:

• Interpersonal communication
• Telecommunicator public safety role
• Telecommunicator systems
• Telephone techniques
• Radio broadcasting
• Emergency medical services function
• Fire services function
• Police services function
• Enhanced 911 systems
• Public safety record keeping
• Legal issues

The Commission has provided a list of approved training programs (http://www.nj.gov/911/instructor/). As of 2015, the list includes courses by the following providers:

• Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO)
• International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED)
• National Emergency Communications Institute (NECI)

All three providers are approved to offer programs at physical locations. APCO also offers an approved online telecommunicator training program. The APCO certification is termed ‘Public Safety Telecommunicator’; the IAED certification, ‘Emergency Telecommunicator’, the NECI course, ‘Basic 9-1-1’.

Courses may be offered through various sponsors, for example, Jersey Shore Safety Consultants.

A list of upcoming classes is available on the website (http://www.state.nj.us/911/home/highlights/classes.html). The list may not include all courses.

A dispatcher will need eight hours of training a year to maintain New Jersey certification.

According to state administrative code, dispatchers who staff PSDPs may be certified by or may complete local training programs specific to the type of dispatch they provide; this may be fire, police or emergency medical services (http://www.state.nj.us/911/resource/reg/index.html#3).

A basic telecommunicator program is about 40 hours, or one week.

Some agencies have their own training programs in place. These may be significantly longer. The New Jersey State Police Operational Dispatch Bureau has a five week training program (http://www.newjersey.gov/njoem/odb.html).

Additional Requirements for Emergency Medical Dispatchers

In many cases, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification will be required as well. The State of New Jersey requires employees of PSAPs to hold EMD certification. There is an exception: when a PSAP directly transfers emergency medical calls to a PDSP that does employ certified staff.

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services has approved four training vendors. Medical dispatchers may be certified by APCO, IAED, or NECI or by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services (NJOETS) itself. NECI certification is termed ‘EMD Communications Officer’. Most other certifications are termed ‘Emergency Medical Dispatcher’.

The employing agency will likely have a particular vendor that it utilizes.

An EMD will need to recertify periodically. He or she will use the vendor’s recertification program if there is one in place. Otherwise, recertification will be through NJOETS.

The emergency medical dispatcher will need to hold CPR certification through the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or the National Safety Council.

Call-takers or dispatchers who are not certified as EMDs may substitute in cases of illness or emergency. However, they will still need to meet requirements described in state administrative code (http://www.nj.gov/911/resource/reg/index.html).

911 Operator Texas

Long-Term Career Opportunities

Dispatch is part of a much broader field: emergency management.

Skilled dispatchers may move into supervisory positions on the strength of experience and of skills attained on the job or through continuing education or academic coursework.

Higher level positions in emergency communications and emergency management typically require degrees. Public administration and emergency management are among the options.

Additional Information

Information about emergency dispatch requirements is available from the Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services (http://www.nj.gov/911/resource). The OETS has provided a staff directory (http://www.nj.gov/911/contact/).

The New Jersey Chapter of the National Emergency Numbers Association is an additional professional resource (http://njnena.org).