Carson City Sheriff's Office looks for Public Safety Communications Officer applicants
Submitted by editor on Sat, 04/30/2022 - 11:10am
Known as "the first, first responders," the job of a 911 dispatcher is a vital one as they are the first voice a person hears in an emergency situation. They often give life saving instructions while help is on the way, ensure the safety of the caller and others on scene, all while simultaneously coordinating the response of emergency crews.
The Carson City Sheriff’s Office is looking for applicants for the position of Public Safety Communications Operator. This is an exciting and fast-paced career where employees answer 911 and non-emergency calls while also dispatching police, fire and medical crews to calls for service.
“We are looking for candidates that are motivated to learn, can work independently in high stress situations and are able to navigate multiple tasks and responsibilities throughout their shift,” said Jenn Stoffer, Dispatch Manager.
Being a 911 dispatcher is a rewarding career as dispatchers are responsible for helping callers navigate any emergency situation. Often a caller is having one of the worst days of his or her life and it is the 911 dispatcher’s job to be there for that individual, guiding them through some of the most stressful situations imaginable.
“It is important that interested candidates understand the working environment of a 911 dispatch center. We are here to answer calls from the public and coordinate with emergency services any time, day or night," said Stoffer. "We are never closed. That said, our work shifts are varied and require a dispatcher to have the ability to work nights, weekends, holidays and overtime.”
Those who love to help others and give back to their community will have the chance to do just that every single day, all while working alongside highly experienced dispatchers, sheriffs’ deputies, fire and EMS personnel.
“A career as a 911 dispatcher is very rewarding. For anyone considering a career in public safety but are unsure of which area they are interested in most, the Carson City emergency communications center dispatches for police, fire, medical (EMS), public works after hours, and several other additional law enforcement agencies within the city. 911 dispatchers are the vital link to the community and any emergency service they may need which provides someone considering a public safety career the opportunity to be a part of each area.”
The position requires applicants to be 18 years of age, have a High School diploma or GED, and be able to pass a thorough background check. The Sheriff’s Office is looking for applicants with stellar multi-tasking skills, the ability to work well in high stress situations, and individuals who excel at working in a fast-paced, team environment.
“We have such a close group working in our 911 center. This job requires constant team work and communication and we pride ourselves on working together in order to achieve the highest efficiency in coordinating emergency service responses to the citizens of Carson City,” said Stoffer.
The paid training process takes approximately 6-12 months. During that time trainees are taught to answer non-emergency and 911 calls, utilize the radio to communicate with the first responders in the field, and how to utilize Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) applications. Trainees are assigned a certified trainer who monitors the trainee and provides guidance when necessary.
“Our 911 dispatchers are highly trained and are a critical piece to the emergency services puzzle," said Stoffer.
Interested applicants may apply here or at carson.org under the Public Safety Communication Operator job posting.
