02/04/2013 73021

PENNSYLVANIA GAME COMMISSION DISPATCHER

DEFINITION: This is specialized dispatching work in receiving, transmitting, maintaining, and coordinating information in support of a variety of functions in a Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) regional office.

An employee in this job performs dispatching and related communications activities in transmitting and coordinating information to and from Wildlife Conservation Officers (WCOs), Game Land Management Group Supervisors, Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officers, other PGC personnel, law enforcement agencies, other Commonwealth agencies, and the public. Work includes receiving, prioritizing, and determining the appropriate disposition of incoming messages from PGC staff, other agencies, and the public; operating a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System and relaying information over radio, telephone, and email; and entering information into a computerized records management system to create and maintain accurate documentation on various incidents and issues. Work also involves answering questions and inquiries from the public on the Pennsylvania Game Law and regulations and on agency programs, operations, and procedures. Work is performed with considerable independence within established operating standards.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Relays information to WCOs regarding wildlife concerns and issues, program requests, and alleged Game Law violations.

Receives and responds to inquiries from the public concerning wildlife, hunting, and the Pennsylvania Game Law.

Establishes and maintains information in the CAD system by creating electronic incident slips for assignment to appropriate personnel for further action and by researching or updating previously created incidents.

Receives calls from other law enforcement agencies and provides information and assistance, creates incident records in CAD, or refers to other PGC staff for response.

Receives reports of illegal activities involving the Pennsylvania Game Law and regulations and dispatches WCOs or other staff for further investigation.

Utilizes the Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN) and Pennsylvania Justice Network (JNET) to access, research, and maintain information regarding driver’s license checks, vehicle registration checks, criminal history checks, and individual warrant checks to assist PGC staff and other commonwealth agencies.

Researches and responds to requests from WCOs and other PGC staff regarding firearms checks, Pennsylvania driver’s license photos, and hunting license information.

Monitors the status and locations of WCOs, Game Land Management Group Supervisors, and other PGC personnel through the CAD system and through related systems that use Global Positioning System and Geographic Information System technologies.

Maintains status checks on WCOs and other PGC staff on duty and during incident responses by monitoring CAD and related systems or by maintaining telephone or radio contact.

Responds to emergency alerts within the region and statewide in response to remote electronic alerts activated by WCOs and coordinates emergency response by PGC staff and other agencies.

Operates the region’s voice recorder software to retrieve information for recorded dispatch calls as requested.

Monitors and reports issues or malfunctions in dispatch communication devices and systems.

Assists in training new staff in the regional communications center.

Communicates with other dispatchers regarding continuing or active issues or incidents and the activities of prior shifts.

Participates in mandatory training programs as required.

Testifies in court as a material witness regarding incidents.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of personal computer operation.

Knowledge of communications equipment such as two-way radios, multi-line telephones, and computer aided dispatch systems.

Knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, and conduct.

Skill in operating a computer keyboard to enter information efficiently and accurately.

Ability to prioritize incoming calls and messages.

Ability to read and interpret written material.

Ability to read and interpret maps and geographic information.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years of dispatch operations experience, two-way radio operation experience, or complex clerical experience.

Possession of a valid Public Safety Telecommunicator certificate issued by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials may be substituted for six months of the required experience.

Possession of a valid Pennsylvania hunting license may be substituted for three months of the required experience.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a clear, firm voice and no major speech, hearing, or visual impairments that would interfere with understanding verbal communication, being understood, or using electronic communications equipment and visual display equipment.

POST EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENT: Must be able to obtain CLEAN and JNET certification within the probationary period and maintain these certifications for the duration of employment in this job.