Job Abstract

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include, but are not limited to the following characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. 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 emergency calls from the public requesting police and other emergency service; determines nature and location of emergency; prioritizes calls and dispatches police or other emergency units as necessary according to established procedures.
• Maintains contact with all units on assignment; maintains status and location of police field units.
• Simultaneously receive, respond and document information from multiple sources while maintaining accuracy in order to relay information with accuracy to responding personnel.
• Coordinates emergency calls and relays information and assistance requests involving other public safety agencies.
• Operates a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system to send units in response to emergency calls and other public service needs.
• Enters, updates and retrieves information from computer networks relating to wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration and other information.
• Performs a variety of record keeping, filing, indexing and other general clerical duties related to communication and records activities; responds to requests for assistance and general questions at the counter.
• Maintains custody, control and safekeeping of inmates detained in City jail, including booking of arrested persons, performing searches, taking inventory of prisoner's property, fingerprinting and administering breath tests, where applicable; monitors the activities of prisoners in City detention facilities and transports inmates; provides daily care of prisoners.
• Maintains and enforces custodial facility regulations of the jail.
• Learns and develops an understanding of applicable policies, procedures, and work methods associated with assigned duties; uses law enforcement terminology and cites Code sections by number.
• Assists officers in program functions assigned, including but limited to community events such as Neighborhood Watch, Too Good For Drugs, and similar activities.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

• One (1) year of public contact experience with clerical/administrative support experience.

• Valid Class C California driver's license, acceptable driving record, and evidence of insurance.
• Typing certificate - 5-minute timed noting a net typing speed (after errors) of 35 WPM or more.

• No felony convictions.
• Successfully complete CA P.O.S.T. certified dispatch training, the Core Correctional Officers Course (jail school), and CPR certification during the initial 12 months; and pass the 18-month probation period.

Knowledge of:

• Civil, criminal, and municipal provisions relating to the various activities of the City of Signal Hill Police Department.
• Law enforcement, fire, and other operating procedures and functions as they relate to the dispatch function; geography of the City of Signal Hill and the surrounding environment.
• Methods and techniques of supervision and training.
• Methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments.
• Legal and procedural techniques and regulations regarding transmission and reception of police radio traffic.
• Basic radio and related equipment maintenance.
• Modern office administrative practices and procedures.
• Methods of providing services and information.
• Ability to learn alphanumeric and other coding protocol.
• Basic principles of mathematics.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Standard office procedures, practices, and equipment; modern office practices, methods and equipment, including a computer and applicable software.
• Methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing.
• Proper English, spelling, and grammar.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Ability to:

Perform a variety of complex work with speed and accuracy; remain calm under emergency situations; learn to operate specialized law enforcement automated information, communication and dispatch systems; work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, overtime, and rotating shifts; wear a department uniform; perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; analyze a complex issue and develop and implement an appropriate response; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily office activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in retrieving and entering data using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading work related documents and using the computer, and acute hearing is required when providing phone, dispatch and personal service. The need to lift, drag, and push files, paper, and documents weighing up to 25 pounds also is required.

Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

Regular exposure to persons in custody who may present intoxication, infection, disease and/or combative or unpredictable behavior. Infrequently may drag 165 pounds during jail emergency evacuation.