This critical role serves as the vital communications link between the public needing help and emergency services response. As first responders, public safety dispatchers (PSD) are typically the first point of contact when a person reaches out for help. This requires a candidate to be able to work independently in a high-stress environment while receiving and evaluating incoming emergency and administrative requests for emergency services, including but not limited to law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS); triaging those requests for service; providing guidance and assistance to the public in life-safety situations; and coordinating appropriate responses to high-risk, high-stress operations, with the objective of keeping all participants safe.

Required Education/Experience:  
A high school diploma or GED.
  
Preferred Certificates or Licenses:  
Must be able to obtain and maintain the following licenses and certifications within a given time frame:
 
Illinois Department of Public Health, Emergency Medical Dispatcher
Illinois State Police, Full Access Certification, Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS)
American Heart Association, CPR Certification
International Academy of Emergency Dispatch Certifications:
Emergency Telecommunicator Course (ETC)
Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)
Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD)
Emergency Police Dispatch (EPD)   
  
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Work is performed in an emergency communications center. The work level can fluctuate from minimal to fast-paced and high volume. The employee deals with crisis situations that require them to quickly make major decisions involving people, resources, and property with frequently limited direction. 
• The PSD may be asked to work scheduled shifts at any time of the day and on weekends and holidays. Must be able to cope in a safe manner with stressful situations, emotional callers, responders, and unprofessional contacts. Under unusual circumstances, the PSD may be required to perform duties at or near the scene of any emergency.  
• This position is designated as essential and must report to work during times when other facilities maybe closed.  This position is subject to call back and hold over to maintain minimum staffing 24/7.