Dispatchers


Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics > Dispatchers > Working Conditions
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Dispatchers

Dispatchers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, dispatchers:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a high level of social contact. Dispatchers spend all of their time talking to customers, coworkers, and emergency personnel.
  • Are responsible for the health and safety of others. This is especially true when they give emergency care instructions over the telephone.
  • Are often placed in conflict situations and talk with people who are unpleasant, angry, or discourteous
  • Communicate with others in person and by phone, e-mail, letters and memos daily.
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  • Work as part of a response team and are responsible for the work done by others.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Almost always work indoors. Occasionally work from inside a car.
  • Work near other people, but have a few feet of space separating self from others.
  • Are often exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.

Work Performance

  • Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could keep emergency equipment from arriving quickly.
  • Repeat the same mental and physical activities.
  • Must meet daily deadlines.
  • Make decisions daily that strongly impact callers. Most decisions are made without consulting others.

Hours/Travel

  • Generally work a set schedule and work 40 hours a week or more.
  • May work evenings, weekends, and holidays, if working as an emergency vehicle dispatcher.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.