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  • 9-1-1 Call Taker

    Bend, Oregon United States Deschutes County Full Time $4,586.49 - $5,853.58 Monthly Jun 07, 2025
    Deschutes County Employer:

    Deschutes County

    Deschutes County is one of the largest employers in Central Oregon and the largest municipal government in the region. The County has 1,200 employees and a $587 million annual budget. The County assesses property, records public documents, conducts elections, collects taxes, and provides a variety of key community services, including public safety, public and behavioral health, building inspection, planning and zoning, road maintenance and construction, solid waste and the operation of a large Fair & Expo Center. Indirect services that support county operations include finance, human resources, property and facilities management, internal auditing, information technology, legal counsel, and public information. For the past decade, Central Oregon has been recognized as one of the best places to live. Deschutes County is conveniently located within a three-hour drive to Portland, Oregon, and within one hour of the Cascade Mountain Range. With an average elevation of 3,600 feet, the area enjoys a dry, high desert climate with cool nights and sunny days. Annual precipitation averages 11.7 inches. The countywide population is over 200,000, spread over 3,054 square miles. Deschutes County is the fastest growing county on the West Coast and one of the most diverse economies in Oregon. Tourism brings to Central Oregon over four million overnight visitors annually. The Mount Bachelor ski resort attracts tourists from across the nation. The nearby Cascade Lakes are also a large draw for tourists. Other local features include a vibrant visual and performing arts community, an outstanding restaurant scene, an extensive and respected health care network, and a high quality educational system. The cities of Bend, (the county seat), Redmond, La Pine, and Sisters are the four municipalities in Deschutes County. Roberts Field Redmond Municipal Airport connects Deschutes County to other major western U.S. cities. In addition to excellent public and private K-12 schools, Bend is home to Central Oregon Community College (COCC) and Oregon State University’s Cascade Campus. To hear from staff about working at Deschutes County Behavioral Health, please click HERE.  Make the work you do matter.  We hope you’ll consider joining our team.

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Summary

    ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

    Our mission is to provide prompt assistance in a caring, resourceful and professional manner to those we serve. The Deschutes County 9-1-1 Service District became a consolidated public safety dispatching agency in 1988, taking all calls for police, fire, and medical service assistance in Deschutes County. The District dispatches for 15 police and fire/emergency medical services (EMS) agencies and works closely with the U.S. Forest Service, AirLink, Life Flight, Oregon State Police, and other State and Federal entities.

    Are you interested in joining a talented team and serving your community? If so, we invite you to review additional information by clicking HERE.

    ABOUT THE COUNTY:

    We know where you choose to live, work and play matters. Deschutes County is one of the largest employers in Central Oregon and the largest municipal government in the region. Our dedicated and passionate workforce of more than 1,250 employees provide County services in a number of departments, divisions, and offices.

    Located in the heart of Central Oregon, between the towering Cascade Mountain Range to the west and the high desert plateau to the east, Deschutes County is the outdoor recreation capital of Oregon. We enjoy a renowned quality of life, with big-city opportunities and small-town neighborhoods.

    ABOUT THE JOB:

    The 9-1-1 Call Taker is the first person that talks to a person in an emergency. They are the critical decision maker in properly assessing the situation, interviewing the caller and getting the information entered into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to be dispatched out to police, fire or medical.

    The 9-1-1 Call Taker provides computer-aided emergency and non-emergency dispatch services for all local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services agencies within Deschutes County. Dispatchers operate complex communications equipment, multi-line telephone systems and computer terminals to access and input information. This position requires the ability to maintain accuracy and speed while performing job duties, often under stressful situations.
    Key Responsibilities:
    • Receives and processes incoming telephone calls, and texts, often during high-call volume periods, from people requesting emergency and non-emergency police, fire, and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) assistance in a courteous, accurate, efficient, and timely manner.
    • Enters information into a computer aided dispatch system in an accurate and timely manner.
    • Makes effective, immediate decisions regarding life-threatening situations based on highly complex rules, regulations, and procedures.
    What You Will Bring:
    Knowledge of or experience with:
    • Strong emotional intelligence with a history of honest and ethical decision-making.
    • Interpersonal skills to discern callers' situations and assure an accurate, appropriate, and timely response by responders.
    • A minimum basic knowledge of geography or the ability to learn geography in a timely manner.
    • Excellent listening skills and the ability to communicate clearly.
    • Ability to adapt and communicate effectively with diverse public.
    • Ability to manage your time and assignments.
    Skill in:
    • Thinking quickly and independently in emergency situations that require multiple decisions for action.
    • Coordinating computer systems to access and enhance information provided to responders.
    • Operation of multiple and complex telephone, radio, and computer equipment/systems.
    *This posting is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but rather constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function.

    Notification to all candidates will be sent via email and/or text only. Please opt in for text messaging or check your email and your Governmentjobs.com account for application status.

    Review the full job description by clicking HERE.

    Compensation

    $4,586.49 to $5,853.58 per month for a 173.33 hour work month, during initial training period. $4,829.13 to $6,163.26 for a 182.5 hour work month, once released from training.

    Hourly rate is increased to $30.6317 upon completion of police dispatch training (about 6-12 months, Public Safety Dispatcher I); and $32.1634 upon completion of fire dispatch training (which usually occurs within the first two years of employment, Public Safety Dispatcher II). Dispatchers may also earn up to an additional 6% of their base salary when they obtain their intermediate certification and 11% of their base salary when they obtain their advanced certification through DPSST. At the top step with possession of an advanced certification, a Public Safety Dispatcher II can expect to earn over $99,000.00 per year.

    For those currently possessing DPSST Certification as a Telecommunicator, certificate pay begins upon hire date and will receive an additional:
    • 6% - for Intermediate certification.
    • 11% - for Advanced certification.
    • Out of State Certified applicants will receive certification pay as soon as certification is granted by DPSST.
    Lateral certified applicants with 36 months or more experience begin at pay step 2 - $27.7837 per hour.

    Hours will increase to 182.50 per month after the initial training period.

    Excellent County benefit package when eligible. This position is available immediately. This is a union represented position, for additional information, please click HERE .

    BENEFITS:
    Our robust health plan is offered at a minimal cost of $95 per month for employee only or $116 per month for employee plus dependents, which includes an innovative on-site clinic, pharmacy, and wellness and wellbeing services. Additionally, we include life insurance, retirement (PERS), generous paid time-off (14-18 hours/month to start, pro-rated for part-time), holidays, and professional development opportunities. Please click HERE for full benefit details.

    This position is re-opened until 11:59pm on July 20, 2025.

    Minimum Qualifications

    • High school diploma or GED equivalent;
    • Must be 18 years of age by hire date;
    • Must accurately type a minimum of 42 words per minute.
    To qualify for employment with the 9-1-1 Service District, candidates must:
    • Pass a drug screening; a hearing and vision exam; a thorough background, employment, and criminal history investigation; and a psychological examination.
    • Meet the requirements as outlined in Oregon Administrative Rule 259-008-0300
    • Possess or obtain all required state certificates and licenses within the probationary period, and maintain thereafter.
      • Certification as an Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) Basic Telecommunicator, Emergency Medical Dispatcher and Emergency Fire Dispatcher.
      • CPR and First Aid certification.
      • Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) certification.

    Steps in the Process:
    • Submit Application
    • CritiCall and Assess Testing - This is remote testing.
    • Telephone Interview
    • Sit Along with a 9-1-1 Call Taker and Dispatcher. In person testing (about 2.5 hours total)
    • Panel Interview
    • Statement of Personal History - A successful candidate will complete a full Statement of Personal History investigation prior to receiving a conditional job offer. The psychological and medical evaluations will require completion after the conditional job offer.


    Necessary Special Requirements

    Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days of hire date. The employment offer will be contingent upon presentation of an acceptable and verifiable driver's license, pre-employment screening for criminal history, driving history, and controlled substances (NOTE: Positive test results for marijuana use may result in rescission of a contingent offer of employment). This screening must be completed with satisfactory findings in order for a formal offer of employment to be extended.

    Must pass a driving record review and criminal history background.
    • A current driver's license, state of issue, date of birth, and a list of states previously lived in (if applicable) are required. Candidates who wish to be considered for this position must include an accurate driver's license number, state of origin, date of birth, and a list of states previously lived in in the Supplemental Question portion of the application.
    Physical Requirements : Must meet the physical requirements as outlined in Oregon Administrative Rule 259-008-0011. Most work in this classification series occurs under a stressful, high activity office environment where concentration and focus are required for long periods of time. There is often little opportunity to talk to co-workers. Work is performed in an area with moderate noise and lighting fluctuations with restrictions to the workstation.

    Excellent County benefit package when eligible.
    Deschutes Countyoffers eligible employeesa comprehensive healthcare package that covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $95 per month for employee only or $116 per month for employee plus dependents. Coverage becomes effective the first of the month following1month of employment. Included in the health care package is the Deschutes Onsite Clinic (DOC), which provides a wide range of health, wellness, and primary care services to employees and their dependents. The DOC offers convenient hours and no out-of-pocket costs to patients. The DOC Pharmacy is a full service pharmacy available to employees and dependents to have their prescriptions filled at a discounted co-pay. In addition to the health care package, DeschutesCounty provides a generous and comprehensive benefits program to eligible employees.

    Employer paid benefit offerings include:
    • Life Insurance for employee and dependents
    • Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
    • Long-term Disability Insurance
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Retirement Program through Oregon PERS
    • Time Management Leave
    Employee paid voluntary benefit offerings include:
    • 125 Flexible Spending Program
    • 457 Deferred Compensation Program
    • Supplemental Life and Accident Insurance
    To learn more about Deschutes County's generous benefit offerings, please visit www.deschutes.org/hr and click on Employee Benefits.

    Closing Date/Time: 7/20/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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How Emergency Management Jobs Help Save Lives: A Guide for Job Seekers

How Emergency Management Jobs Help Save Lives: A Guide for Job Seekers
 

What Are Emergency Management Jobs in Government Agencies?

Emergency management careers in government agencies are crucial roles dedicated to protecting communities and coordinating responses to disasters and crises at local, state, and federal levels. Read on to find out if a job in this field is the right job for you.

These positions focus on safeguarding public safety and minimizing the impact of emergencies through careful planning, efficient response, and effective recovery efforts.
Government emergency management jobs typically exist within:
  1. Local government: City or county emergency management offices
  2. State government: State emergency management agencies
  3. Federal government: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other federal departments
Key responsibilities of government emergency management professionals include:
  1. Developing and maintaining emergency operations plans
  2. Coordinating with various government departments and agencies
  3. Managing emergency operations centers during crises
  4. Allocating resources and personnel during emergencies
  5. Conducting risk assessments and hazard analyses
  6. Implementing public education and awareness programs
  7. Overseeing disaster recovery and mitigation efforts
  8. Ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations
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Imagine being the person who designs an early warning system that saves thousands of lives during a tornado, or the one who coordinates a multi-agency response to a major flood. These are real examples of the critical work government emergency managers do. Did you know that government emergency management isn't just about responding to disasters? A significant part of the job involves prevention, preparedness, and helping communities become more resilient. Your work could stop a crisis before it even begins.

Government emergency managers must stay updated on the latest technologies and best practices. From using advanced weather modeling to predict severe storms to leveraging social media for public communication during crises, these professionals are at the forefront of applying innovative tools to protect citizens.

As climate change increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, and as our society faces new challenges like cybersecurity threats, the role of government emergency management professionals becomes ever more vital.
 

The Impact of Emergency Management on Communities

Government emergency management professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding lives, protecting property, and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of disasters and crises. Their work touches every aspect of community life, often in ways that citizens may not immediately recognize. Emergency managers are at the forefront of protecting public safety. They develop early warning systems for natural disasters, create and implement evacuation plans, coordinate search and rescue operations, and ensure the continuity of essential services during crises.

Imagine being the person whose carefully crafted evacuation plan saves an entire town from a devastating wildfire. That's the kind of impact you could have in an emergency management role.
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But emergency management goes beyond immediate response. These professionals work to make communities more resilient by conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities, implementing mitigation strategies to reduce potential damages, educating the public on preparedness measures, and developing long-term recovery plans.

The work of emergency managers also helps safeguard local economies by minimizing disruptions to businesses during disasters, facilitating rapid recovery efforts to get communities back on their feet, and managing disaster relief funds and resources effectively. Emergency managers serve as the crucial link between various government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. This coordination ensures a unified and efficient response to emergencies, maximizes the use of available resources, and reduces duplication of efforts and potential conflicts.

Effective emergency management builds public trust in government institutions by demonstrating preparedness and competence during crises, providing clear, timely, and accurate information to the public, and showing visible leadership during challenging times.

In times of crisis, communities look to their leaders for guidance and support. As an emergency manager, you could be that beacon of hope and stability when it's needed most.

Emergency management influences long-term community planning and development by advocating for resilient infrastructure, informing land-use decisions to reduce vulnerability to hazards, and promoting sustainable development practices. Emergency managers also play a crucial role in ensuring that all community members, especially vulnerable populations, are protected and supported during crises. They develop inclusive emergency plans, ensure equitable distribution of resources and assistance, and address the unique needs of diverse community groups.

Emergency management isn't just about responding to disasters – it's about creating stronger, more equitable communities. Your work could help ensure that no one is left behind when disaster strikes.

The impact of emergency management on communities is profound and far-reaching. From saving lives in immediate crises to shaping the long-term resilience and development of communities, emergency managers are instrumental in creating safer, stronger, and more prepared societies. As you consider a career in emergency management, remember that your work could be the difference between chaos and order, between devastation and swift recovery. Are you ready to take on this critical role and make a lasting impact on your community?

 

Skills Required for Success in Emergency Management

Success in government emergency management roles requires a unique blend of skills that combine leadership, analytical thinking, and interpersonal abilities. These professionals must be prepared to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining a clear head and a steady hand.

Ever wondered what it takes to be the calm in the storm, the voice of reason in chaos? Emergency management demands a special set of skills – let's explore if you have what it takes to excel in this critical field.

Leadership and Decision-Making

Emergency managers must be able to take charge in crisis situations, making quick, informed decisions that can have life-or-death consequences. They need to inspire confidence in their team and the public, even under extreme pressure. This requires not just the ability to lead, but also the courage to make tough calls when lives are on the line.

Communication

Clear, effective communication is paramount in emergency management. These professionals must be adept at conveying critical information to diverse audiences, from government officials and first responders to the general public. They should be skilled in both verbal and written communication and be able to translate complex technical information into easily understandable terms.

Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Emergency situations rarely follow a script. Successful emergency managers must be able to analyze complex situations quickly, identifying key issues and developing innovative solutions on the fly. It also entails factoring in people's civil rights when they face emergencies. This requires a keen analytical mind and the ability to think outside the box when conventional approaches fall short.

Stress Management and Emotional Intelligence

Working in emergency management means dealing with high-stress situations regularly. The ability to remain calm under pressure, manage one's own emotions, and respond empathetically to the stress and trauma of others is crucial. Emotional intelligence helps in navigating the human aspects of disaster response and recovery.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Emergency management is inherently a team effort, involving coordination across multiple agencies and organizations. The ability to work effectively in a team, foster cooperation, and build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Adaptability and Flexibility

In the ever-changing landscape of emergency management, adaptability is key. Professionals in this field must be able to pivot quickly as situations evolve, adjusting plans and strategies in real-time. They should be comfortable with ambiguity and able to function effectively in unpredictable environments.

Technical Proficiency

While not all emergency management roles require deep technical expertise, a basic understanding of relevant technologies is important. This includes familiarity with emergency management software, GIS mapping tools, communication systems, and data analysis platforms.

Cultural Competence and Empathy

Communities are diverse, and emergencies affect different groups in various ways. Successful emergency managers must be culturally sensitive, able to understand and respect diverse perspectives, and ensure that emergency plans and responses are inclusive and equitable.

Project Management

Many aspects of emergency management involve overseeing complex, multi-faceted projects. Skills in planning, organizing, and managing resources are crucial for success in roles ranging from preparedness initiatives to recovery efforts.

Continuous Learning

The field of emergency management is constantly evolving, with new threats emerging and best practices developing. A commitment to ongoing learning and professional development is essential to stay current and effective in this dynamic field.

While some of these skills can be developed through training and experience, others – like the ability to remain calm under pressure or to think creatively in crisis situations – are often innate qualities. As you consider a career in emergency management, reflect on your own strengths and areas for growth. Do you have the foundation to become a skilled emergency manager? With the right combination of natural abilities, education, and experience, you could play a crucial role in safeguarding your community and saving lives.

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Education and Training for Emergency Management Roles

Embarking on a career in government emergency management requires a solid foundation of education and ongoing training. The field demands a unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Formal Education:

While some entry-level positions may only require a high school diploma, many emergency management roles prefer or require a bachelor's degree. Relevant fields of study include:

  • Emergency Management
  • Public Administration
  • Homeland Security
  • Public Safety
  • Criminal Justice
  • Environmental Science

For those aiming for leadership positions or specializations, a master's degree can be highly beneficial. Advanced degrees in Emergency Management, Public Administration, or related fields can provide deeper insights into policy-making, strategic planning, and advanced crisis management techniques.

Certifications:

Professional certifications can significantly enhance your credibility and career prospects in emergency management. Some key certifications include:

  • Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) from the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM)
  • Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) for those early in their careers
  • Various FEMA certifications through their Emergency Management Institute

These certifications often require a combination of education, experience, and passing an exam, demonstrating your commitment to the field and your expertise.

Practical Training:

Hands-on experience is crucial in emergency management. Many educational programs incorporate practical elements such as:

  • Internships with local emergency management agencies
  • Participation in disaster simulations and exercises
  • Volunteer work or internship opportunities with organizations like the Red Cross or local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)

Ongoing Professional Development:

Emergency management is a dynamic field, requiring professionals to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Ongoing training opportunities include:

  • Workshops and seminars offered by professional organizations
  • FEMA's Emergency Management Institute courses (many available online)
  • State-specific training programs
  • Conferences and networking events in the emergency management community

Specialized Skills Training:

Depending on your specific role or career goals, you might pursue additional training in areas such as:

  • Incident Command System (ICS)
  • National Incident Management System (NIMS)
  • Crisis communication and public information
  • Hazardous materials management
  • Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection

Government-Specific Training:

For those pursuing careers in government emergency management, familiarity with government operations and policies is crucial. This might involve:

  • Training on local, state, or federal government procedures
  • Understanding of relevant laws and regulations
  • Courses on interagency cooperation and coordination

Military Experience:

Many successful emergency managers come from military backgrounds. The leadership, discipline, and crisis management skills developed in the military can translate well to emergency management roles.

As you consider your educational path in emergency management, remember that the field values a combination of formal education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, there are numerous opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills.

 

The Future of Emergency Management

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As we look to the horizon, the field of emergency management is poised for significant evolution, driven by technological advancements, changing global dynamics, and shifting societal needs. The future of this vital profession promises both exciting opportunities and formidable challenges for those ready to step into the role of community guardians.

Emergency management is calling for innovative minds like yours - just check out the new jobs posted below and fine-tune your resume.

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