Emergency Services Dispatcher

Our Communications Center is in operation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and receives more than half a million calls annually. The Emergency Services Dispatcher (ESD) is the first voice someone in need hears when they call for help. The ESD must be able to professionally listen to the call, obtain critical information about the incident and dispatch the appropriate emergency responders as quickly and efficiently as possible.

General Qualifications and Overview

• Must be able to communicate effectively in writing, in person and/or over the telephone and radio.
• Must be able to type a minimum of 35 correct words a minute.
• Must pass all pre-employment testing.
• Must be willing to work any shift to which you are assigned.
• Must be willing to remain on duty when activated for an emergency such as a hurricane.
• There are a minimum of six dispatchers on duty at all times.
• The initial training period is between 6 months and 9 months.
• After the first five-week training period, the ESD is assigned to a shift and will work 12-hour shifts on what is commonly called a “2-2-3” work schedule.

How to Apply

Applicants can easily complete the online application HERE. Once you have completed your application, a member of the Recruitment and Staffing Office will contact you and ask you to provide copies of the following items as part of your application package:

• Birth Certificate (Proof of U.S. Citizenship if not born in the United States)
• High School or GED and College Diplomas
• Driver’s License
• Social Security Card
• Court-issued legal documentation supporting any legal name change (i.e., marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.)
• If you have prior military service, a copy of your DD214 with your separation code and the type of discharge you received.
• A certified driving record from the Department of Motor Vehicles from all states licensed over the past six years.
• If you are a former law enforcement officer, provide all training certificates.

Applicant Documents

• Personal Inquiry Waiver (must be notarized)
• Hiring Board Questionnaire (completed and submitted online)

The documents can be submitted any of the following ways:

• E-mail
• United States Postal Service
• Drop off in person to the Sheriff’s Office located at 2001 Duke Street in Beaufort, South Carolina

NOTE: The Recruitment Office offers free Notary services. If the applicant would like to use this service, the applicant may bring the completed form to the Recruitment Office located at 2001 Duke Street in Beaufort, South Carolina.