Dispatcher

Job Title: Dispatcher

Position Function: The Security Communications Dispatcher will be directly responsible to the Security Communications Supervisor and/or the Division Director of Safety and Environmental Services. The dispatcher will handle notifications, calls and requests that come through dispatch; as well as any additional tasks related to the functions of Security Communications.

Essential Performance Responsibilities:

• Manages computer, radio and phone traffic through Security Communications. Includes answering multiple-phone lines, monitoring and responding to electronic notifications, radio monitoring and communication, dispatching proper personnel, use of standard and specialized software programs to maintain a log of locations and call types, as well as arrival and departure times of designated Facilities and Safety Services personnel.
  
• Is knowledgeable of Plant Facilities operational areas for immediate communication and efficient dispatch of proper personnel on routine and emergency requests.
  
• Competently monitors system-wide alarm systems and reports all malfunctions in the alarm systems to support staff/departments in a timely manner.
  
• Monitors traffic and parking areas of the School Service Center Complex.
  
• Follows appropriate procedures for visitors and staff entering and exiting the School Service Center Complex, as well as maintaining a daily building sign-in sheet.
  
• Monitors and efficiently communicates with fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and 9-1-1; alerting appropriate district personnel of communications with these agencies, when necessary.
  
• Monitors available weather warning systems during hazardous weather conditions and updates appropriate district personnel.
  
• In emergencies pertaining to USD 259 properties, personnel, and students, dispatchers will follow appropriate protocols for managing the multiple tasks related to the communications necessary in these situations.
  
• Provides assistance to the department, as requested.

Additional Duties: Assists with additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

Equipment: This position may require the ability to use SMART boards and iPads in addition to basic office equipment such as computers, copiers, scanners, and fax machine. Must always comply with USD 259's guidelines for equipment use.

Travel: Limited travel between schools and central offices may be required.

Physical and Mental Demands:

• Dispatcher will work a standardized work schedule and may include working weekends, holidays and/or evenings and will report to the Supervisor of Security Communications.
  
• Punctuality and reliability regarding attendance are a must.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate both verbally and written in order to communicate with others inside and outside of the organization for the purpose of giving and obtaining information
  
• Ability to communicate effectively with a Supervisor when their discretion is needed
  
• Ability to perform as an effective team player
  
• Ability to plan, organize, make decisions and prioritize work to meet the daily demands of the building
  
• Exhibit a professional manner and a positive attitude
  
• Use good judgment to make decisions on recurring assignments
  
• Display a significant degree of professionalism and confidentiality
  
• Ability to conform to proper standards of professional dress and appearance
  
• Knowledge of company's mission, purpose, goals and the role of every employee in achieving each of them
• Must be able to work as a team member as well as by him or herself.
  
• Must be capable of remaining calm during times of crisis, emergencies and other situations involving multiple tasks and management of related security communications.
  
• Must be able to communicate clearly, professionally and effectively with staff, administration and others via computer, phone and/or radio.

Interrelations:

• Contact with personnel within the district and with customers and vendors
  
• Will be working under the direct supervision of the department supervisor in order to complete day to day tasks
  
• Will be working with a diverse population requiring the ability to handle all situations with tact and diplomacy
  
• Must understand and respond appropriately to customer needs and maintain a positive attitude with all customers and colleagues
  
• Expected to interact with all internal and external customers in a friendly, professional manner and provide quick, responsive customer service

Employee Punctuality and Appearance:

• In order for schools to operate effectively, employees are expected to perform all assigned duties and work all scheduled hours during each designated workday, unless the employee has received approved leave
  
• Any deviation from assigned hours must have prior approval from the employee's supervisor or building administrator
• All employees are required to report to work dressed in a manner that reflects a positive image of USD 259 and is appropriate for their position

Qualification Profile:

• Previous dispatch experience and/or security related experience preferred.
  
• Possess good customer service skills
  
• A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required
  
• Must be proficient in the use of phones, radios, computers, printers, and standard software programs
  
• Must also be capable of learning customized district programs and systems

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt