Fire Dispatcher I

About the Position

The County of Los Angeles Fire Department is seeking dedicated candidates for the role of Fire Dispatcher I. This essential position involves receiving and managing emergency service requests within the most populous county in the nation, serving approximately 10 million residents. Fire Dispatchers play a crucial role in coordinating timely dispatch and response of fire, rescue, and paramedic units while maintaining communication across multiple channels in a fast-paced, paramilitary environment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Respond promptly to emergency calls from the public via 911, Public Safety Answering Points, and other safety agencies.
• Gather preliminary incident information from callers to ensure appropriate dispatch of resources following operational procedures and inform units of any notable risks or unusual factors.
• Distinguish between routine and urgent messages, responding accordingly or involving supervisors as necessary.
• Deliver pre-arrival emergency instructions in line with departmental Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols.
• Operate specialized communication equipment maintaining liaison with public, private, and non-emergent safety agencies.
• Under guidance, utilize Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems to identify and dispatch the nearest qualified units.
• Handle coded and conventional message transmissions through various communication media ensuring urgent messages receive priority and coordinating resources effectively.
• Maintain and update dispatch records and emergency call logs accurately.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, including recognized GED, or an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.
• Ability to type at a minimum speed of 30 net words per minute.
• Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License or equivalent alternative transportation means.
• Capability to work under the physical demands classified as Light (Physical Class II), including occasional light lifting up to 10 pounds and moderate ambulatory activity.

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of the Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) Certification training post-appointment.
• Willingness to adhere to a paramilitary work setting, fulfilling orders and performing tasks in a high-pressure emergency communications center.
• Availability to work any shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime, with possible shift rotations and recalls requiring extended duty up to 36 continuous hours with rest breaks.
• Ability to multitask efficiently, managing simultaneous communication channels and maintaining focus under stressful conditions.
• Participation in approximately ten months of training to attain proficiency in required skills.

Examination and Selection Process

The selection includes a three-part assessment:

• Typing test (minimum 30 net words per minute) – required unless previously excused due to past qualifications.
• Multiple-choice examination evaluating customer orientation, learning potential, and responsibility (30% weight).
• Performance test assessing decision making, multitasking, listening, summarization, prioritization, memory, map reading, spelling, and reading comprehension (70% weight).

A passing mark of 70% or higher in Parts II and III is mandatory to remain on the eligibility list. Passing the exam does not guarantee employment. Background and medical checks are required following conditional offer acceptance.

Additional Information

• The department operates 24/7, requiring flexibility for any shift assignments.
• Candidates must maintain professionalism, including maintaining hygiene and appearance standards in the dispatch center.
• Applicants accepted on the list will remain eligible for employment consideration for 12 months.
• The dispatchers must be able to effectively handle sensitive and critical calls that may involve grievous injuries or fatalities.
• Applicants should be prepared for high-intensity work with potential recalls and the inability to leave the dispatch center during shifts except in emergencies.