Animal Dispatcher
San Mateo, CA
Full Time
Mid Level
About the Organization
A leading nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to protecting animals, inspiring compassion, and strengthening the bond between people and pets. Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the organization provides vital programs that save lives and create a more humane community.
Position Summary
The Dispatcher plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and monitoring field staff activities. This position requires strong communication skills, multitasking abilities, and the capacity to remain calm and professional under pressure. The Dispatcher provides essential support to staff, the community, and partner agencies while maintaining accurate records and reports. This role must be performed on-site and is represented by Union Local 856.
Key Responsibilities
A leading nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to protecting animals, inspiring compassion, and strengthening the bond between people and pets. Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the organization provides vital programs that save lives and create a more humane community.
Position Summary
The Dispatcher plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and monitoring field staff activities. This position requires strong communication skills, multitasking abilities, and the capacity to remain calm and professional under pressure. The Dispatcher provides essential support to staff, the community, and partner agencies while maintaining accurate records and reports. This role must be performed on-site and is represented by Union Local 856.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, screen, prioritize, and dispatch service requests from the public and partner agencies.
- Monitor and track the activities and locations of field staff, ensuring safety and support as needed.
- Deliver excellent customer service by assisting callers and agencies, often in high-stress situations, with professionalism and problem-solving skills.
- Prepare, proofread, and maintain a variety of reports and documents, including Animal Bite Reports, Public Safety Reports, Dangerous/Vicious Animal case files, and citations.
- Review and finalize Animal Bite Reports for submission to county officials.
- Maintain records of county Dangerous Animal Permits, including annual renewals, with accuracy.
- Compile statistical data and assist management with reporting.
- Monitor and respond to department emails and voicemails.
- Operate a two-way radio professionally to coordinate communications.
- Provide information to the public regarding animal welfare, ordinances, rabies quarantines, and wildlife concerns.
- Occasionally interact with the public at the shelter, including assisting with Animal Bite Reports.
- Quickly assess service requests to determine urgency and appropriate department response.
- Collaborate with other departments and provide assistance as needed.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to ensure smooth operations, positive public relations, and quality service for the community and animals.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Six months to one year of related experience/training preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must pass a background check upon hire.
- Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and standby shifts as required.
- Strong multitasking abilities and effective communication skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Professional, calm, and courteous demeanor with the ability to handle stressful situations.
- Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills.
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