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911 Dispatcher

The job of 911 Dispatcher is one of the most essential positions we have here at the ACSO and is vitally important for public safety. It’s a demanding but incredibly rewarding position — our dispatchers help save lives 365 days a year. The hiring and selection process for 911 Communications Dispatcher generally occurs for two academies each year.

Dispatcher Hiring Process

  • Preliminary Application Review
  • Screening Interview
  • Computer-Based Testing: This is a technical test that measures skills and abilities in decision making, typing speed (minimum 35 WPM), memory recall, multi-tasking, reading comprehension, and data entry.
  • Oral Board Interview
  • Sitting In (Plugging in) the Dispatch Center
  • Conditional Offer of Employment
    • Polygraph Examination
    • Credit Check/Background Investigation
  • Final Determination

Work Schedule/Shifts

The work week is four 10-hour shifts. Days of the week would vary, based on the shift picked. Dispatchers work a set schedule — same days of the week and shift hours — for four months. This includes working holidays if the shift falls on a holiday. Dispatchers must be available to work every shift option.

Training

You will spend a minimum of 1,000 hours in the training program, including classroom and on-the-job training, before you are eligible for release.

ACSO’s POST Emergency Communications Academy: Approximately ten weeks and will include both Idaho POST and agency-specific training on: Law, Fire, and EMS call taking and call processing, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Law dispatching, CPR, type codes, geography, CAD functions, stress management, liability, interpersonal communications, emotional intelligence, problem solving skills, service areas, phone system technology, radio use, jargon, officer safety information, and agency branding.  Emergency Communications Officers will receive their POST Academy certification upon completion of ACSO’s in-house Emergency Communications Academy.

ACSO’s Emergency Communications CTO Program: Following the academy, Emergency Communications Officers will transition to on-the-job training.  During this time, the Emergency Communications Officer will be paired up with multiple CTOs (Communications Training Officer) and will receive the opportunity to experience working a variety of shifts.  The CTO program is at minimum 18 weeks.  Upon completion of the CTO program, Emergency Communications Officers will receive their Idaho Basic POST Certificate.

We recognize that everyone learns at their own pace and we can certainly work with that. As long as you are showing consistent improvement and are still happy with your career choice, we will do everything we can to help you to succeed.

Lateral Transfer Wage Information

While the selection process is the same for all dispatcher applicants, those transferring from other law enforcement agencies with current (within the last three years) dispatcher experience may receive a higher starting wage. View our wages plan.

  • Level III = Two to four years of current experience working in a public safety emergency communication center providing law enforcement, medical and fire dispatch services.
  • Level IV = Five to six years of current experience working in a public safety emergency communication center providing law enforcement, medical, and fire dispatch services.
  • Base = Seven or more years of current experience working in a public safety emergency communication center providing law enforcement, medical, and fire dispatch services.
dispatch person with headset standing at a desk with several monitors