Brian Wolfe: Dispatchers needed for Malheur County

The general job duties of a 911 dispatcher include:

• Questioning callers to determine their location and the nature of the emergency;

• Receiving incoming telephone calls regarding fire, police and emergency medical services;

• Determining response requirements and placing priorities on situations;

• Recording details of all calls, dispatches and messages;

• Retrieving and entering data from teletype networks and computerized data systems; and

• Contacting emergency response field units to determine their availability for dispatch.

911 dispatchers must:

• Have a strong grasp of the English language, both in the written and spoken word, which includes the meaning and spelling of words, composition, and grammar;

• Have knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures, including word processing systems, stenography and transcription, and similar office procedures and terminology; • Have knowledge of laws, legal codes, government regulations, and agency rules;

• Have knowledge of computer applications, computer programs, and computer hardware and software;

• Have knowledge of the jurisdictional geographical area they will be serving, including highways and thoroughfares;

• Be able to communicate effectively and use logic and reasoning to come to solutions, conclusions, or alternate approaches to problems;

• Be able to identify complex problems, develop and evaluate options, and implement solutions;

• Advanced First Aid/CPR/AED;

• Basic telecommunications;

• Critical incident stress;

• Domestic violence;

• Emergency medical dispatch;

• Hazardous materials;

• Suicide Intervention;

• Terrorism; and

• TTY Training

As of Sept. 14, 2021 Malheur, County Dispatch has received 57,139 calls for service and an additional 9,844 emergency 911 calls so far this year.

Malheur County Sheriff’s Office currently has openings for dispatchers. The beginning wages for Dispatch is $3,430 monthly, plus a full benefit package. If you can multitask and are interested, please contact the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office.