DISPATCHER SENIOR/STATE POLICE 76153

2/1/91 F

This is the third class in the Dispatcher series. Positions in this class operate communications equipment, send and receive information related to law enforcement activities and emergency services; and provide work direction on an assigned shift in a communications center. Positions in this class are distinguished from the Dispatcher/State Police class by its lead work and communications center coordinative responsibilities.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty, operating a variety of communications equipment, and receiving and sending information regarding law enforcement activities and emergency services requirements. Requests for information are received from law enforcement personnel, the media, and private citizens, and may concern criminal activities, verification of criminal history records, driving records, and vehicle registration. Positions in this class receive requests for assistance and dispatch the appropriate law enforcement personnel or emergency service assistance. Positions in this class have the responsibility for maintaining, updating, and reviewing a variety of records, logs, and forms; reviewing the dispatcher's record of activities; and monitoring equipment status and reporting malfunctions or failures. Positions operate equipment to enter and retrieve criminal justice information; schedule the work of Dispatchers/State Police; coordinate the activities of a communications center in emergency situations; report unusual situations or events to a State Police uniformed supervisor; provide on-the-job training for Dispatchers/State Police; and update communications center procedures and manuals.

Supervision Given: Supervision typically is not a factor; however, positions provide technical guidance and direction to State Police Dispatchers.

Supervision Received: Receives direction from a State Police Sergeant or higher level State Police authority.

Scope: Work affects law enforcement activities and services provided within a State Police Division, and may influence statewide or interstate law enforcement operations.

Impact of Actions: Effective actions assist in the provision of appropriate law enforcement or emergency services. Unsatisfactory performance may result in loss of life, destruction of property, and the loss of goodwill.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contact with private citizens to receive complaints or provide information; with law enforcement personnel from within and from outside the district relative to public safety; with emergency services providers; and with personnel from other state agencies.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of the department's policies, procedures, and regulations; the physical layout of the division to which assigned; and of the department's communications networks.

Skills: Working skill in keyboarding.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; to maintain accurately and update a variety of logs and records; and to act appropriately in emergency situations.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification as a dispatcher in accordance with standards set by the Department of Criminal Justice Services and as a Virginia Criminal Information Network Operator in accordance with standards set by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent; courses in communications procedures, and communications equipment operation.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience as a communications equipment operator.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class replaces the State Police Lead Communications Operator class. It was revised by a Classification Review/Specification Update team, effective February 1, 1991.