Work Environment
• Innovative and supportive leadership
• Fast paced, engaging and challenging
• Numerous training opportunities
Basic Requirements
Be 18 years of age, with a High School Diploma or equivalent and ability to successfully pass computer checks and background investigation.
Application Process
Applications may be submitted directly to the Office of the Director via email or in person at the Pettis County Courthouse, or via mail to:
Pettis County Joint Communications
415 S Ohio Ave, Suite 300
Sedalia, MO
65301
Call the administrative office at (660) 851.7176 if you have any questions, or if special accommodations are required.
Applicant Selection Process
Communications Specialist (911 Dispatcher) is an entry level position but due to the nature of services the recruitment process may take several weeks.
Once an application is received, applicants who meet the basic job requirements are invited to take part a computer-based skills assessment that measures various aspects of as multitasking, reading comprehension, and typing skills of prospective applicants.
Upon successfully completing the Criti-Call assessment, applicants will be asked to come in for a sit-a-long to make sure that 911 is a good fit for them.
If the applicant wishes to continue in the process, they are invited to an interview and then a background investigation is conducted for those that pass into the final stages of the process.
Following the background investigation, the applicant may receive a conditional offer of employment and then a personality assessment is provided to the applicant.
Thinking About A Career in Communications?
Do You Have What It Takes to Be a 911 Telecommunicator?
Test Your Skills: 911 Call Simulator
Think you have what it takes to answer the call when someone needs help the most?
Put your skills to the test with our interactive 911 call simulation! Enter a few basic details, including your name and email address to experience a simulated emergency call and get a feel for what it’s like to work in a 911 communications center.
How will your information be used?
The name and email address you provide may be used to follow up with you about career opportunities, recruiting events, or additional information about becoming a 911 telecommunicator. Completing the simulation does not require you to apply for a position, and your information will not affect your simulation experience.
No experience is required, and you don’t have to be applying for a job to participate. Whether you’re curious about a career in 911, considering a career change, or simply want to see what it’s like on the other end of an emergency call, this is your opportunity to give it a try.
Take the challenge. Answer the call. Do you have what it takes?
Why does someone choose to become a 911 Dispatcher?
Every call, every day, you make a difference in the lives of the community and field responders.
Is the job of 911 Dispatcher stressful?
At times, yes. However, you will be taught how to handle 911 emergency calls both from the citizen (who needs help) and to the responder (fire, police, and medical services). Once these skills are developed and you gain experience, your stress will be greatly reduced.
Additionally, you will be given the skills and tools to manage your stress in a healthy man
What kind of educational background or experience is necessary to become a 911 Dispatcher?
A high school education or GED with some job experience, with direct customer contact (example: restaurant, customer service, or a retail store).
What skills are necessary to become a 911 Dispatcher?
• strong work ethic
• desire to help others.
• excellent communication skills
• ability to provide excellent customer service.
• ability to multi-task in a fast paced and dynamic environment
• good short-term memory and common sense
• strong keyboarding and computer skills
Are 911 Dispatchers required to be bilingual?
No, being bilingual is not required but if you have the skills mentioned above and are bilingual then you should apply.
Are applicants hired for specific shifts?
No. The shift ultimately assigned to a 911 Dispatcher (after training) will depend on which shift is needed at that time. Therefore, applicants must be able to work any assigned shift, which includes day, evening, and midnight hours.
Is training only day shift hours?
Classroom training is typically Monday-Friday and field training occurs on an assigned shift, which includes day, evening, and midnight hours.
Are applications accepted from people who have worked for other agencies?
Absolutely! Call the administrative office at (660)851.7176.