The Town of Southbridge is seeking to proactively identify qualified candidates for the role of Civilian Dispatcher within the Southbridge Police Department. While no current vacancy exists, we are preparing for potential staffing needs and welcome expressions of interest from individuals who thrive in fast-paced, high-responsibility environments. This critical position plays a vital role in public safety, responsible for receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and EMS services. The ideal candidate will demonstrate composure under pressure, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to community service. If you are interested in serving as the first point of contact in emergency response and being part of a professional, mission-driven team, we encourage you to monitor this opportunity and prepare to apply once the position is formally posted.
The Position:
The Civilian Dispatch position includes receiving calls on the 911 system along with the regular business line for the Police Department. The Civilian Dispatch position will determine the appropriate level of response and dispatch public safety personnel calmly and clearly to locations where corrective action is needed. Responsibilities also include maintaining proper records of all communications, providing information and assistance to the general public as well as various clerical and computer-related functions. The Civilian Dispatcher position must be able to work in a fast-paced combined Police, Fire & EMS communications center. Requires excellent communication skills, ability to multi-task and be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. The position available is full-time with benefits included. Salary Range: $29.78 - $32.87 per hour depending on experience and shift differential for second and third shifts. Our 9 full time dispatchers joined MASSCOP LOCAL 478, work a 4/2 schedule and are eligible to work paid details as Special Traffic Constables.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School diploma or equivalent; one year of experience in a general clerical/customer service position involving working with the public; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Certification or ability to become certified as a Massachusetts Public Safety Dispatcher (LEAPS); certification from APCO as a Basic Telecommunicator preferred. Candidate to become certified in enhanced 911 systems through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Our Ideal Candidate:
- Working knowledge of the layout of the Town. Familiarity with related rules, regulations, orders, policies, and procedures. Knowledge of information dissemination related to criminal offenders and public records.
- Basic understanding of the police and fire departments operations and familiarity with the Town’s laws and bylaws as well as a basic understanding of the incident command system.
- Ability to handle emergency situations calmly, promptly, and efficiently while under stress as well as the ability to think clearly in a crisis situation and handle occasional high levels of stress.
- Ability to read, write and speak clearly and give clear directions over the phone and radio. Clearly elicit needed information from a caller who may be a child, injured, or incapacitated person.
- Ability to handle the equipment and machinery required for the job including data entry and retrieval on computer and teletype equipment.
The Town of Southbridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of the workforce. EOE
Apply Online for Full-Time Civilian Dispatch