Public Safety Telecommunicator/E911 Dispatcher

Seward County E911 is now accepting applications for the position of a Public Safety Telecommunicator/E911 Dispatcher!

The Public Safety Telecommunicator – 911 Dispatcher serves as the vital communications link between the public and emergency services. Operating within the public safety ecosystem, individuals in this role are typically the first point of contact during crises. This position requires the ability to work independently in a high-stress environment, receiving, evaluating, and triaging incoming emergency and administrative requests for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS). The objective is to provide critical guidance to the public and coordinate appropriate responses to keep all participants safe.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Emergency Call Management: Professionally screen and prioritize incoming requests via phone, text-to-911, video feeds, and automated data.
• Crisis Communications: Maintain an empathetic, calm, and controlling presence with callers experiencing acute distress. Provide critical pre-arrival instructions and safety guidance according to established protocols until field units arrive.
• First Responder Coordination: Relay accurate operational data to field units, monitor responder safety, conduct status checks, and coordinate with specialized resources such as traffic management, advanced life support or regional response teams.
• Specialized Caller Assistance: Navigate complex communication barriers by utilizing translation services, TDD relays, and mental health resources to assist diverse caller populations.
• Technical System Operation: Simultaneously operate multiple complex computer systems, including computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, geographic information systems (GIS), and communications consoles without error.
• Documentation & Compliance: Accurately document incident details to establish urgency, maintain records for legal discovery, and adhere strictly to federal disclosure and privacy laws.
• Public Notifications: Activate mass community warning systems and utilize designated platforms to inform the public of severe weather or critical safety events.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Credentials: Possession of a valid driver’s license
• Background Check: Successful completion of a comprehensive local, state and federal background check. Must be without felony convictions.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Windows-based software and comfortable operating multi-screen electronic telecommunications equipment.
• Professional Attributes: Strong attention to detail, dependability, adaptability to rapid change, and a service-oriented mindset.
• Stress Management: Ability to function effectively without reservation under chaotic, stressful, and emotionally demanding circumstances.

Work Schedule and Operational Requirements

The Seward County Emergency Communications Center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. To ensure continuous public safety coverage, candidates must meet the following scheduling criteria:

• Shift Flexibility: Availability to work a varied schedule, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Operational Adaptability: Capacity to work extended hours or alternative shifts as dictated by emergency operations and department needs.

Professional Support

Seward County 9-1-1 provides necessary training, certifications, and continuing education for career development. Recognizing the demanding nature of public safety communications, the department provides access to debriefing tools, stress management techniques, and critical incident support models.

Starting wage 22.45 per hour or more depending on experience.