Substitute Part-Time & Per Diem Dispatchers - South Hadley Police Dept

The Town of South Hadley is seeking dedicated and detail-oriented individuals to join the South Hadley Police Department’s team as substitute and per diem, part-time public safety 911 Dispatchers. Substitutes will work as coverage is needed, and in the absence of the regularly scheduled Dispatchers. Work opportunities may be offered for day, evening, and overnight shifts and may include both planned assignments, or shifts on a short notice basis. Please note: These are temporary positions, to be eliminated on or prior to the date Town of South Hadley joins a regional PSAP currently anticipated by the middle or end of October 2026.

This crucial role involves answering and documenting all incoming calls, dispatching appropriate units, handling emergency medical dispatch, and managing various communications. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to work effectively under pressure, maintain confidentiality, and ensure public safety through prompt and accurate response to emergency and non-emergency situations.

The South Hadley Police Department consists of twenty-nine (29) full-time officers, 5 fulltime dispatchers and civilian clerical staff. The department utilizes the latest E911 technologies, TriTech IMC CAD systems, Dell mobile data terminals, PowerPhone EMD and Kenwood radio communications systems.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Receiving, prioritizing, and documenting calls for police, fire, and medical services via 911, business lines, radio, and in-person requests.
• Dispatching emergency and non-emergency units/services based on situational needs.
• Disseminating information to department personnel and coordinating responses to incidents, including crimes in progress, medical emergencies, and other urgent matters.
• Managing information flow to and from various law enforcement and emergency response agencies, ensuring accurate and timely communication.
• Maintaining records and utilizing systems such as LEAPS/CJIS/NCIC for data entry and retrieval.
• Operating camera systems to monitor police facilities and assist with the security of premises.
• Utilizing language interpretation services for non-English speaking callers.
• Staying current with departmental guidelines, policies, and required training programs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

The following requirements may be substituted by and equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job:

• High School diploma or equivalent required and 1 year of relevant work experience
• Candidates must be current in Massachusetts E911 Certification and Training.
• Proficiency with computers, electronic data processing, and modern office practices.
• Ability to handle high-stress emergency situations calmly and effectively, strong decision-making skills in emergency and crisis scenarios, and effective communication skills with the ability to give clear directions and elicit critical information.
• Exceptional multitasking abilities and attention to detail.
• High level of confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to work various shifts including weekends and/or holidays and beyond or outside of normal shift hours as needed to maintain critical public safety services.
• Preferences: Prior municipal emergency dispatching experience; LEAPS, CPR; Familiarity with criminal offender information dissemination and public records laws; Bilingual in Spanish/English; immediate availability and flexibility.

Schedule/Substitute Status:

Position is non-benefited, paying $25.23/hour (Grade 4, Step 2). This is a substitute (as needed), variable hour position, and opportunities to work and schedule will be based on operational need. There is no minimum guaranteed hours, however it is currently anticipated that employees may work 8 hours per week or more if desired.

Questions regarding the position can be directed to Lt. David Gagne.

Visit www.southhadley.org/Jobs to complete the online application and upload a cover letter and resume. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis; positions will remain open until filled.

The Town of South Hadley is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.