Stephen Loftus

This is the first supervisory level in the series. Under direction, incumbents typically plan, organize, and assign work to a group of 6-11 communications personnel and may assist with 24-hour operation of a communications center. Typical duties include planning, organizing, and assigning work to a small group of employees; providing for and conducting training in the operation of communications equipment and CHP and allied agency procedures; preparing and coordinating employees' work schedules; reviewing and evaluating employees' work performance; participating in the selection of new communications personnel; supervising or personally performing, when necessary, normal and/or the most difficult dispatch duties, and operating communications equipment; assisting with the management of a communications center by performing a wide variety of routine staff work and administrative duties; interpreting and applying the provisions of a wide variety of manuals, labor contracts, rules and regulations, etc.; preparing a variety of reports, memorandums, correspondence, and operating manuals; ensuring that communications equipment is fully operational; and providing leadership and support to team-building efforts.

• Conducted regular evaluations of dispatcher performance to identify areas for improvement and provide constructive feedback for growth opportunities.
• Boosted dispatcher performance by developing comprehensive training programs that emphasized critical thinking and decision-making skills.
• Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local regulations regarding emergency communications systems and practices.
• Developed innovative strategies to improve overall call handling efficiency while maintaining high-quality service standards for callers in distress.
• Enhanced emergency response times by streamlining dispatch processes and implementing efficient communication protocols.
• Improved interdepartmental collaboration by coordinating with local law enforcement, fire departments, and medical services to ensure seamless public safety operations.
• Demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by effectively managing a team of dispatchers during high-stress situations, maintaining composure under pressure while ensuring public safety objectives were met.
• Facilitated teamwork among dispatchers by encouraging collaboration on complex calls requiring multi-agency coordination efforts.
• Cultivated strong working relationships with external agencies such as neighboring jurisdictions'' public safety departments or private security firms to enhance cooperation during emergency events.
• Implemented advanced technology solutions to streamline call-taking processes and improve data collection capabilities within the 911 center.
• Continuously sought opportunities for professional development, staying current on industry best practices and adjusting departmental procedures accordingly.

Working under direction, duties include operating radio, automated telephone, and computer-related equipment to receive, transmit, and record information; dispatching appropriate personnel and resources such as officer, emergency equipment, allied agencies, etc.; screening incoming calls from officers, public, media, and other allied agencies and taking appropriate action; receiving and handling 911 calls; receiving and handling calls from citizens who are difficult to communicate with (e.g., upset, abusive, intoxicated, suicidal, very young/old, or speech-impaired); querying specialized law enforcement databases for information; communicating with personnel of other agencies to obtain and disseminate information; monitoring and responding to field units and allied agencies; providing information to field units; disseminating information and advice to the public; briefing oncoming dispatcher; and processing reports and records.

• Contributed to a safer community by consistently prioritizing and triaging incoming calls based on urgency.
• Collaborated with other public safety agencies during joint operations, ensuring effective communication and resource allocation.
• Entered criminal record checks, driver's license numbers and warrants into telecommunications systems to fulfill officer requests.
• Fielded 911 emergency and non-emergency calls and determined level of support that was needed for response.
• Handled sensitive information with discretion, adhering to confidentiality guidelines and protecting privacy rights.
• Maintained detailed records of all dispatched events, providing documentation necessary for reporting purposes.
• Used specialized software to track and maintain case incident numbers and logs.
• Monitored alarm systems and closed circuit televisions to dispatch appropriate police response to intrusions and trouble indicated alarms.
• Remained calm in very high-pressure situations and kept callers on line until law enforcement arrived on scene.
• Supported fellow dispatchers during high-stress situations, promoting teamwork, and fostering a positive work environment.

• Conducted traffic stops and enforced traffic laws, reducing accidents and promoting safe driving habits.
• Utilized non-lethal force techniques when appropriate to de-escalate tense situations without compromising officer safety.
• Conducted prisoner transports while prioritizing inmate welfare and adhering to mandated security protocols.
• Participated in warrant service operations alongside fellow deputies, ensuring suspect apprehension without incident.
• Assisted in investigations and evidence collection, leading to successful case resolutions.
• Provided support during high-risk operations, ensuring the safety of fellow officers and civilians.
• Maintained accurate reports on incidents, arrests, and other activities for thorough documentation of daily tasks.
• Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency situations.
• Collaborated with fellow deputies for effective crime prevention and community outreach efforts.
• Supported federal, state, and local agencies during joint operations or mutual aid requests.
• Assisted individuals experiencing mental health crises or drug-related issues with empathy and professionalism.
• Testified in court as a credible witness, contributing to successful prosecutions and convictions.
• Assisted in the planning and execution of large-scale events such as parades or festivals, ensuring public safety and crowd control.
• Improved communication skills by interacting with diverse populations during calls for service or community events.
• Performed arrests while adhering to proper procedures, maintaining the rights of suspects and minimizing liability risks.
• Participated in training exercises to ensure readiness for various emergency scenarios including active shooter situations or natural disasters.
• Collaborated with local schools to educate students about law enforcement responsibilities and promote a positive image of the profession.
• Conducted thorough searches of vehicles, residences, or persons when warranted by probable cause or search warrants, resulting in the seizure of illegal items or contraband.

Kern County Sheriff’s Office Dispatchers operate and control telephones, 9-1-1 equipment, transmitters, and receivers in the Sheriff’s Office through a computer-aided dispatch system.

Dispatchers access and relay information via telephone and radio messages.

• Investigated and reported crimes, accidents, offenses, and damage to property.
• Issued traffic citations and electronic tickets for violations of traffic laws.
• Assisted in the development of departmental policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Provided expert testimony in court proceedings, contributing to successful prosecution of numerous cases.