Job Description

Posting number: POSTING

Department: FIRE

Job classification: SENIOR EMERG SERV FIRE DISPATCHER

Posting type: Open

Categories: Fire & EMS

Summary

On an assigned shift, Senior Emergency Services Fire Dispatcher is responsible for operating the public safety communication system in the Department of Fire. The incumbent is a working supervisor, training personnel and participating in the operation of a telephone, radio, computer and related equipment to dispatch fire personnel and equipment to scenes of fires, accidents, medical and other emergencies. Incumbents must be able to function calmly under stress, and take appropriate action swiftly. They must exercise sound judgment, alertness and responsiveness in emergency situations. Work is performed under supervision from a higher-level fire official in accordance with established policies and procedures. Supervision is exercised over Emergency Services Fire Dispatchers.

Examples of duties

Assists the shift Captain, Fire Alarm Dispatcher or a designee in supervising the dispatch center;

-schedules personnel and replacements for each shift;

Trains personnel and participates in the operation of the communications and public address system including radio equipment, and computer terminal, telephone, transmitter, paging, voice alarm, municipal alarm system, etc. to dispatch fire personnel and equipment;

Receives all types of alarms for various incidents requiring police, fire or EMS attention to fires, hazardous situations, medical emergencies etc.;

-dispatches vehicles and personnel for routine and emergency service calls and;

-maintains continuous status and location of police, fire and emergency vehicles;

-maintains all records on same;

Operates computer terminal, including e-mail, to retrieve/relay information;

Determines priorities of service when necessary in accordance with established policies and procedures;

Receives incoming telephone calls and provides needed information; Receives calls over the telephone from fire, police and other governmental agencies;

In an emergency, may be required to provide medical information;

Receives, records and files complaints from the public and maintains records on same;

Prepares and submits reports to Commissioner or a designee of any unusual or emergency situation;

Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications

Continuous and permanent status as an Emergency Services Fire Dispatcher in the Department of Fire for two years.

Special Requirement

Possession of a valid Emergency Medical Technician certificate that must be presented at time of appointment and maintained during employment.

Successful candidates must satisfactorily complete the APCO Communication Training Officer Course and the ICS-200, IS-700 and IS-800 (or an equivalent course administered by the Fire Department) within one year from date of appointment.

THE CITY OF BUFFALO IS AN EQUAL OPPORUNITY EMPLOYER

Supplemental information

Good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of public communication equipment that includes radio and telephone equipment, pager system, voice alarm, municipal alarm system;

Good knowledge of the geography of the City;

Good knowledge of basic supervision and scheduling;

Familiarity with fire terminology and procedures;

Ability to train subordinate staff;

Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions;

(continued)

SENIOR EMERGENCY SERVICES FIRE DISPATCHER #2309 (cont'd.)

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS (cont'd.)

Ability to maintain records and prepare reports;

Ability to operate a computer in the input/output of data;

Ability to quickly analyze emergency situations and take decisive action;

Ability to perform calmly and efficiently in all types of situations;

Ability to speak clearly and distinctly;

Clerical aptitude; good hearing; mental alertness; sound judgment, courtesy, tact;

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.