Salary: $42,791.00 Annually Location : PSCC - Bowie, MD Job Type: Probationary FT Job Number: PSI-PSECT-25-03 Department: Office of Homeland Security Opening Date: 11/01/2024 Closing Date: 12/31/2024 11:59 PM Eastern Nature and Variety of WorkCome join our team! Prince George's County Government provides a dynamic and inclusive workplace where employees can thrive, learn, and grow across its 30 diverse agencies, all dedicated to serving the County's residents with essential resources and services. Nestled just minutes away from Washington, DC, Prince George's County combines urban vibrancy with serene surroundings, offering an ideal setting to live, work, and enjoy life. We are Prince George's Proud!BILINGUAL APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. The Office of Homeland Security is seeking qualified applicants to fill Public Safety Emergency Dispatcher I/II positions, Grade P14/P15 in the Public Safety Communications (PSC) Division for its December 2024 training classes. This role is critical in maintaining and supporting public safety. If you have a desire to help the community, support emergency responses, and are seeking a rewarding career in public safety communications, we invite you to apply today. About the Position Call Takers receive incoming calls via the 9-1-1 system's emergency or non-emergency lines, enter and transmit appropriate emergency information and codes into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), and simultaneously provide pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions to distressed or irate callers while recording data in the CAD system. Call Takers are responsible for becoming familiar with emergency and dispatch protocols to effectuate response and transmission of emergency requests in a safe, reproducible, and non-arbitrary manner. Incumbents are expected to exhibit highly skilled listening ability in order to quickly and accurately ascertain from emotional, distraught individuals, the nature of assistance required along with the ability to accurately and quickly type/enter the information in the CAD system. Call Takers must have the tolerance to work under pressure. Work is performed inside a secured, windowless office environment with a specialized low-light system and includes prolonged periods of sitting at a designated workstation monitoring computer screens and entering data. There is limited opportunity for physical movement; rest and meal periods are dependent on workload. Incumbents must be able to perform the following: reaching, fingering, grasping, hearing/listening, seeing/observing, and repetitive motions. Vision abilities required for this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus; the ability to see with or without corrective lenses, and well enough to read standard text and text displayed on a video display terminal. Work may require constant focus on a computer screen for two or more hours at a time. About the Agency The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) was developed as a result of legislation passed in 2003. This new agency incorporated critical emergency response entities that were previously part of other agencies. Public Safety Communications (PSC), which included all County 9-1-1, emergency dispatch and radio system support, had been part of the Office of Information Technology and Communications (OITC). The Emergency Management Division (EM) was within the Fire/EMS Department. EM and PSC were combined under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety/Director of Homeland Security, forming the Office of Homeland Security. The legislation and resulting changes to the Charter, spelled out the separate and distinct missions assigned to EM and PSC. Examples of Work
- Operate a workstation comprised of multiple computer systems including Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency telephone system, geographical mapping tools (GIS and aerial photography), Computer Aided Dispatch, and other repositories for critical information to answer, triage and process incoming emergency and non-emergency calls of service
- Initiate calls for service, utilizing appropriate protocols, provides pre-arrival instructions including CPR instructions, when appropriate
- Receive incoming requests for emergency and non-emergency assistance, determine the type of service(s) required and initiate calls for service in accordance with emergency dispatch protocols and Public Safety Communication (PSC), Police, Sheriff's, Fire/EMS and other public safety agencies' policies
- Receive calls via the radio, 9-1-1 system or telephone while using an issued headset or other computer-based communication equipment and processes/records pertinent information according to agency procedures and protocol
- Make computer inquiries and be able to interpret the information that is received from the various agencies via the computer
- Operate the various technical systems and equipment necessary to obtain and properly process 9-1-1 calls for service. This includes the deaf teletype system, 9-1-1 system, text to 9-1-1 computer function, language line, mapping programs, and the Computer Aided Dispatch system
- Provide emergency pre-arrival and post-arrival instructions to the caller to mitigate or lessen the impact of their emergency prior to arrival of public safety responders
- Gather, classify, and supplement pertinent information obtained from caller(s) and enter it into the CAD system, consistent with appropriate protocols
- Utilize life support protocols, as authorized under the Maryland Emergency Medical Dispatch license/certification, to provide appropriate instructions to caller
- Establish communications with hearing impaired callers through the Maryland Relay 7-1-1 telephone system
- Identify non-English speaking callers and utilizes the language translation service as necessary to complete call processing
- Utilize the NCIC, METERS, and other related computer data bases to obtain information on criminal history, arrest warrants, missing persons, driver history, stolen property, stolen vehicles, securities and boats, vehicles, firearms, etc.
- Identify when it is appropriate to refer callers to other County, State, or Federal agencies or outside jurisdictions and maintains/prepares various logs and records pertinent to operations
This position is designated essential, and the incumbent must be willing to participate as a critical/essential employee during emergencies, such as natural or manmade disasters or special activities/events. Essential employees are expected to report to work or remain at work when other County employees are granted administrative leave. Employees in this classification may be assigned to a one of four twelve hour rotating shifts to meet public safety service level requirements. All personnel in this class of work must work on site and are not eligible for telework or remote work assignments. Qualifications
- High school diploma or G.E.D required
- One (1) year practical work experience to include one (1) year experience demonstrating the use of Windows-based computer programs
- Candidates must successfully pass agency-specified entrance examination
EACH APPLICANT MUST INCLUDE INFORMATION THAT CLEARY DEMONSTRATES THE ABOVE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION. Additional InformationCONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Upon selection, the candidate:
- Must be able to work ten (10) or twelve (12) hour rotating shifts
- Must satisfactorily complete all components of the Academic (Phase 1) training program by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all quizzes, examinations and practical evaluations
- Must complete the NAED (National Academy of Emergency Dispatch) Emergency Telecommunicator Course (ETC) and obtain ETC certification by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all course examinations
- Must complete the NAED - EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatch) course and obtain EMD certification by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all course examinations
- Must complete the NAED - EFD (Emergency Fire Dispatch) course and obtain EFD certification by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all course examinations
- Must complete the NAED - EPD (Emergency Police Dispatch) course and obtain EPD certification by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all course examinations
- Must complete the Maryland State NCIC (National Crime Information Center) CN2 training course and obtain NCIC - CN2 certification by achieving a minimum passing score on all course examinations
- Must complete the CPR/BLS (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/Basic Life Support) course for Health Care Providers and obtain CPR certification by achieving a minimum score of 80% on all course examinations
- PSC employees are considered ESSENTIAL and are required to work during emergency situations, including inclement weather, natural and man-made disasters, etc.
- Must successfully pass a background investigation conducted by Prince George's County's Office of Human Resources Management Public Safety Investigations Division to include a medical examination, drug screen and psychological screening
- Must have the ability (driver's license, vehicle, or other reliable transportation) to report to the primary center in Bowie, Maryland or the backup center in Landover, Maryland at the prescribed reporting times or when directed to do so
SELECTION PROCESS To be considered for this position, applicants must successfully complete all of the following stages: Phase 1
- Qualifications Review and Standards Assessment
- Computerized Pre-Employment Examination
- Preliminary Screening
Phase 2
- Background Investigation
- Psychological Screening
- Medical Examination & Drug Screening
Phase 3
- Final Offer of Employment
- Successfully Complete Public Safety Communications Training Session
Reasons for disqualification may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Previous disqualification for this or other public safety positions
- Deception or falsification of application or other documents
- Poor work history
- Poor driving record which includes suspended license/DWI/DUI
- History or pattern of crimes, both reported and not reported; felony/misdemeanor conviction; illegal drug usage, possession, distribution, sale, or purchase
- Failure to meet physical and mental standards
- Failure to present a professional appearance
Notifications Notifications for this position will be made via email. Applicants must monitor the e-mail account provided and update their online profile with any changes to personal information. Applicants must ensure your e-mail account allows emails from all addresses ending in . For more information, you may email ...@co.pg.md.us.ONLY ONLINE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTEDEligibility to Work: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, an employer is required to hire only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to provide and verify authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S., only after an offer has been accepted and the Form I-9 is completed. For information on E-Verify, or if you believe the County has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at 888-###-#### or visit their website at dhs.gov/E-Verify. INTERNAL APPLICANTS: If you are a current Prince George's County Government employee and seeking a promotion, in accordance with Section 16-200 of the Personnel Law, you have the right to appeal a rejection rating within five (5) working days of receiving a rejection notice. Union employees should refer to their respective collective bargaining agreement and/or union representative for their grievance procedure. Prince George's County Government is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Committed to Diversity and Inclusion in the WorkplaceGeneral Plan Information: The Prince George's County benefits plan year is from January 1 to December 31. A spouse (to include a same sex spouse) can be added to the health benefit plans. A marriage certificate and social security number is required to add a spouse. Children under the age of 26 are eligible for coverage under the health benefit plans. This includes stepchildren and children of the same-sex spouse. A birth certificate(s) and social security number(s) is required to add a child(ren). If you are only adding the stepchildren or child(ren) of a same-sex spouse, you will need to submit a marriage certificate. You will also need to submit the birth certificate of the child(ren) and your spouse must be listed as a parent. The premiums for health benefits are deducted on a pre-tax basis with the exception of Long-Term Disability, Extra Life Insurance and Voluntary Benefits (Short-Term Disability, Whole Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, Cancer Indemnity, Hospital Indemnity Protection, Accident Indemnity Plan, Supplemental Dental and Group Legal Services). New employees must enroll in the County's health benefit plans within thirty (30) days of the hire date. The effective date of the health benefits coverage is the beginning of the month following a waiting period of forty-five (45) days from the date of hire. After enrolling in the County's benefit plans, employees may only make changes to the plans either during the open enrollment period, which occurs annually (usually each October), and/or during the year, due to a family status change (i.e., marriage, births, divorce and adoption). Employee Benefits Prince George's County is proud to offer employees an attractive and comprehensive benefits program, including the following:
- Medical/Prescription/Dental/Vision Insurance Coverage (part time employees are eligible for medical insurance if they work 15 + hours, per week)
- Group Term Life Insurance
- Long & Short-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Dependent Care Assistance Program
- Health Care Flexible Spending Account
Paid Leave (Annual, Personal, & Sick) 13 Paid Holidays Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Pension Plan
- Employer Contribution Rate-11.71%
- Supplemental Pension Plan
- Employee Contribution Rate (Pre-Tax)-3.48%
- 457(b)
- 403(b)
Employee Discounts Employee Assistance Program Voluntary Benefits - Critical Illness
- Whole Life Insurance
- Accident Insurance
- Legal Services
For additional details, please visit: 01 (MQ1) In order to proceed with your Public Safety application, you must comply with Prince George's County's honesty policy. Utilize the link below to watch the required video. You will be provided the answer to MQ1 at the completion of the video. To be directed to the video, please click
02 (MQ1A) I understand that I am applying for a career in Public Safety with Prince George's County which is an essential position. Further, I acknowledge, understand and certify that this application is an
OFFICIAL DOCUMENT that will be used to determine if I meet the selection requirements mandated by Federal, State, and County laws and regulations.
03 (MQ1) I understand my ability to successfully complete this Application and the Supplemental Questions is one of the requisite skills to be considered for this position.
04 (MQ1B) I certify I will
carefully and thoroughly read and answer ALL questions honestly and without error.
05 (MQ2B) I understand that I must complete all required processes by the timeframe provided in order to be considered for a position.
06 (MQ6) I acknowledge that:(a) this process is highly competitive;(b) there are many highly qualified applicants for only a few positions;(c) every step in the process, and all interaction with any County personnel, is designed to assess my character, knowledge, skills and and capabilities to determine if I have the aptitude and suitability for this position.
07 (MQ2C) I will save and review the information I provided in this application often to avoid errors, prevent omissions, and to recheck what I have submitted. I understand that failure to do so will result in being
PERMANENTLY DISQUALIFIED from consideration for any Public Safety position with Prince George's County. I also understand that should I be offered employment and accept a position with Prince George's County and subsequently it is discovered that any information I provided is false, I may be terminated from employment in accordance with Personnel Law.
08 Are you a former
Public Safety Emergency Call Taker with Prince George's County Office of Homeland Security/Public Safety Communications seeking reinstatement?
09 Do you have one (1) year practical work experience to include one (1) year experience demonstrating the use of Windows-based computer programs?
10 I would make an excellent candidate for this position because: 11 What is your current age? You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
- Less than 18 years old
- Greater than 18 years old
12 (MQ4A) I am willing to undergo a comprehensive background investigation, including contact with all my references, current and former employers, current and former co-workers, and close personal associates.
13 (MQ4B) I am willing to undergo a comprehensive background investigation of my driving record, credit and financial history, criminal history, educational history, and military service.
14 (MQ4C) I am willing to undergo a polygraph examination, psychological evaluation, physical examination, and drug testing.
15 (MQ5) Are you a United States citizen or resident alien and can submit proof of citizenship or legal residency?
16 (MQ8) Which best describes your HIGHEST level of education?You must have at least a High School diploma or GED in order to apply.
- None
- High School Diploma or GED
- Some College (less than 60 credit hours)
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Advanced Degree
17 Please select the languages for which you are fluent(select all that apply)
- English
- Spanish
- Korean
- Vietnamese
- Sign Language
- Other
18 (MQ9A) I, as the applicant, am the only person that has provided any information in this application. I understand and willingly accept that I will be PERMANENTLY DISQUALIFIED for a Public Safety position if anyone has completed any part of this application on my behalf.
19 (MQ10A) I will update my online profile with any changes to my personal information as soon as they occur.
20 (MQ10B) I will check my online profile regularly, including the email account I provided, because I understand that all information, notices and scheduling regarding this application and evaluation process will be provided only in my online profile and/or through the email account I provided.
21 (MQ10C) I will update my junk/spam settings to allow emails from all addresses ending in @co.pg.md.us .
22 (MQ11) If hired, I am:(A) willing and able to work any shift I am assigned on any day of the week, including holidays and weekends. (B) I understand that I am an essential government employee and will always report to work on time regardless of weather or other circumstances.
23 (MQ12A) Are you willing and able to adhere to County and Departmental rules and regulations?
24 (MQ12B) Are you willing and able to take orders from superiors?
25 Have you ever been terminated, or resigned in lieu of termination, from a Public Safety agency (Police, Sheriff, Fire/EMS, Corrections, Homeland Security, Emergency Dispatch, etc.)?
26 In the space provided below please list ALL Public Safety Agencies you have applied to within the last 5 years. Include agency name, date of application and disposition or current status. If not applicable, please put N/A. 27 (MJ1) Have you ever used, tried, ingested, inhaled or experimented with marijuana in the past 12 months?
- No, I have NEVER used, tried, ingested, inhaled or experimented with marijuana.
- Yes, I have used marijuana at least one time within the last year (12 month period prior to date of application).
- Yes, I have used marijuana at least one time within the last two years (24 month period prior to date of application).
- Yes, I have used marijuana at least one time within the last three years (36 month period prior to date of application).
- Yes, I have used marijuana at least one time, but it has been more than three years since my last usage.
28 (DRG1) How many times have you used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected or experimented with cocaine?
- I have NEVER used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected or experimented with cocaine.
- 1-2 times
- 3-4 times
- 5 or more times
29 (DRG3) How many times have you used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected or experimented with Heroin, PCP, LSD, or other hallucinogens?
- 0 times
- 1 or 2 times
- 3 or 4 times
- 5 or more times
30 (DRG3) How many years has it been since you used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected or experimented with narcotic drugs (which were not prescribed to you) for the purpose of getting high?
- I have NEVER used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected or experimented with narcotic drugs not prescribed to me for the purpose of getting high .
- One year
- Two years
- Three years
- Four years
- More than five years
31 (DRG4) How many years has it been since you used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected, or experimented with any drug or substance for the purpose of getting high?
- I have NEVER used, tried, inhaled, ingested, injected, or experimented with any drug or substance for the purpose of getting high.
- One year
- Two years
- Three years
- Four years
- More than five years
32 (DRG6) How many times have you used, tried, inhaled, injected, ingested or experimented with synthetic drugs in any form?
- I have NEVER used, tried, inhaled, injected, ingested, experimented with synthetic drugs in any form.
- 1-3 Times
- 4-5 Times
- 6 or more times
33 How many times have you sold or distributed any illegal drugs?
- 0 times
- 1 or 2 times
- 3 or 4 times
- more than 5 times
34 (CRM1A) If you answered yes to the question regarding selling drugs, please explain. If no, put N/A. 35 In the space provided below, please completely explain your history with using, or experimenting with any drugs, marijuana, or other controlled substances, whether legal or illegal, prescribed or not prescribed, etc., for the purpose of getting high.You must include detailed information on:1) what you used2) how many times you used it3) when you used it (month/year)4) any other important information we should know about your drug or marijuana usePlease note that if you progress through the process, your statements here will be subject to a truth verification examination, such as a polygraph, etc. 36 (CRM2B) To the best of your knowledge, do you have any outstanding warrants, protective/ex-parte orders or are awaiting any pending criminal proceedings?
37 (CRM2A) Are you currently on probation or parole? If yes, please explain below
38 (CRM2A) If you answered yes to the previous question(s), please explain. If no, put N/A. 39 (CRM3) Have you ever been convicted, entered a guilty plea, been given Probation Before Judgement (PBJ) or STET Docket for an assault that occurred in a domestic setting? If yes, please explain below.
40 If you answered yes to the previous question regarding whether you have been convicted, entered a guilty plea, been given Probation Before Judgement (PBJ) or STET Docket for an assault that occurred in a domestic setting, please explain below. 41 (CRM4) Have you ever been convicted of, or pled guilty to, a felony? If yes, please explain below.
42 If you answered yes to the question regarding conviction of or guilty plea to a felony, please explain. If no, put N/A) 43 (CRM5) Have you ever stolen anything of value?
- I have NEVER stolen anything
- Yes, it was valued less than $100
- Yes, it was valued more than $100 but less than $500
- Yes, it was valued more than $500 but less than $1,000
- Yes, it was valued more than $1,000
44 (CRM5A) If you answered yes to the question regarding theft, please explain. If no, put N/A. 45 How did you learn about this position?
- Signboard
- Job Fair
- Email from Prince George's County Office of Homeland Security
- Digital Billboard
- Text from Prince George's County Office of Homeland Security
- Other (specify)
- Bus Promotional Ad
- Movie Theater
46 I understand that I may be temporarily or permanently disqualified based on the information I have provided.
Required Question