ARE YOU READY TO BE A PST?

A professional public safety telecommunicator is a highly responsible, multi-functional public servant who must handle many tough requirements, often in crises. The nature of the NPD telecommunicator’s job includes these key elements:

• Mostly sedentary.
• Operate telephone, radio and computer equipment, usually concurrently.
• Answer 9-1-1 emergency calls and public inquiries, and dispatch police and fire units.
• Usually routine call taking and dispatching, but periodically high-stress during emergencies.
• Work on one of three 8-hour shifts (0700-1500; 1500-2300; 2300-0700).
• Must be willing to work assigned shift that may include weekends and holidays.
• Work with a team of two to four other Telecommunicators.
• Occasional requirement for overtime.
• Must pass a police background investigation.
• Must pass a CVSA examination.
• Must not have used tobacco for at least 6 months prior to application for employment.
• Must not have any visible tattoos that can be deemed offensive.

A career as a Public Safety Telecommunicator offers some personal rewards, some of which are intangible, such as:

• Satisfaction that you provide a vital service to the public.
• Awareness that citizens rely on you as the first “First Responder” to their calls for help.
• Pride in knowing that on a daily basis you help promote the protection and preservation of life, property, and community security.
• Knowledge that you serve in a profession that is growing in national recognition.