City of Portland - Telecommunicator (911 Dispatcher)

Start Date: March 18, 2024 | End Date: September 27, 2024
County: Cumberland County
Job Type: Public Safety - Police

TELECOMMUNICATOR (911 Dispatcher)

Portland Police Department

Your community needs you! Come and join a team with purpose that makes a difference every day and night. 

We are now accepting applications for Emergency Telecommunications Operator (911 Dispatcher). Answer the call and become the ears and voice of public safety.

This is an important, fast-paced and exciting position in Portland's Regional Communications Center (PRCC). PRCC provides 24-hour emergency/non-emergency dispatch services for Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services for the municipalities of Portland, South Portland, and Cape Elizabeth.  The normal duties of this position include but are not limited to: working 8,10 or 12-hour shifts, covering 24-hours a day 7 days a week, including holidays and weekends; communicating with police and fire units by radio; answering both emergency (911) and non-emergency telephones; provide Emergency Medical & Fire instructions over the phone for emergency situations; input data into computer regarding stolen property, vehicles, and guns; enter missing and wanted persons in state, local and national computer systems; other related duties as required. 

This is a fast-paced team environment that requires the following qualifications: Graduation from high school or equivalent; ability to work with advanced computer-aided dispatching technology; capacity to act quickly, calmly and correctly in emergency situations; must be able to use tact and diplomacy in stressful situations; availability to work all shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays; strong listening, memory and multitasking skills; accurate typing skills; solid customer service skills. Job suitability assessment, Police background check, and polygraph required. Must be able to obtain Maine Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification (EMD), Emergency Fire Dispatch Certification (EFD), and Maine Certified Terminal Operator Certification within 6 months of employment. 

Highly competitive and comprehensive new compensation and benefit plan.  Starting rate during 4 weeks academic training $22.17/hour, increasing by a minimum of $2/hour when training on shift. Upon passing probation at 6 months, rises to $23.81/hour, plus a minimum of $2/hour shift differential. Additional $1.50/hour for each qualification gained (Police Dispatch, Fire Dispatch). Educational stipend. MainePERS 3C or 401a pension. 

Lateral Hire Opportunities - Certified Emergency Telecommunicators can be credited for previous experience and placed at the corresponding pay scale step. 

Signing Bonus: We are currently offering a $25,000 sign-on bonus for lateral candidates with a 5-year commitment (available to the first 5 applications received). $10,000 for all other qualified applicants.  

Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check. 

Accepting applications until all vacancies are filled.

To APPLY, click here:  https://selfservice.portlandmaine.gov/ess/EmploymentOpportunities/JobDetail.aspx?req=291&sreq=3&form=1150&desc=TELECOMMUNICATOR%20(911%20DISPATCHER)

City Benefits

Permanent employees receive a generous benefits package that includes paid holidays; employee health insurance; sick and vacation leave; optional life, dental, vision and income protection insurances; choice of retirement plans; and tuition reduction program with the University of Southern Maine and Thomas College.   

The City of Portland is strongly committed to diversity in its workforce.

Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

For questions contact Human Resources by email at jobs@portlandmaine.gov or 207-874-8624. 

City Job Opportunities Website:  www.portlandmaine.gov/Jobs