Louisville City Wire

MetroSafe, the city’s 911 hub, is seeking to train and hire its next generation of 911 Telecommunicators. 911 Call Takers and Dispatchers are the first first responders when an emergency strikes. MetroSafe today announced applications are being accepted for the upcoming training academy.

“911 is the lifeline our residents call when they need help. Our telecommunicators provide lifesaving instruction to those in their darkest hour as well as celebratory milestones like helping deliver a baby,” said Jody Meiman, Executive Director, Louisville Metro Emergency Services. 

MetroSafe, along with 911 call centers across the country, is experiencing staffing challenges and anticipating a wave of retirements from telecommunicators who have been dedicated public safety servants for decades. 

“Over the past thirty years, I’ve seen the technology and resources evolve to better rapidly get help to residents in need,” said Viola Brown, MetroSafe Dispatcher, who will mark her 30th anniversary this month. “Having a career in 911 is challenging but fulfilling, and I’m proud to mark this milestone and continue to serve residents and first responders.”

Currently, the center is short dozens of positions. MetroSafe has seven trainees in training who will be added to the current work force upon completion. 

In a report released this summer, NENA, the national 9-1-1 Association, cited 82 percent of 911 centers as being understaffed and data showed a growing shortfall in younger workers to replace those who are retiring or burning out.

“We’re seeking quick thinkers who are able to adapt well to rapidly changing situations,” Meiman said. “If you like an exciting, fast-paced environment and work well under pressure, a career in 911 may be for you.” 

911 Telecommunications is a public safety position that involves taking critical 911 calls from the public, which includes calls such as cardiac arrests of persons including children and infants, working fires with victims trapped inside, shootings and auto accidents. 

After the application period, trainees will be selected to go through a 180-hour, paid training academy held primarily during daytime hours (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.). Trainees receive $22.31/hour for the duration of the training. The hiring process includes a civil service testing, a criminal background check, a panel interview and job shadow, and suitability training. Upon successful completion, trainees will be granted full-time employment with MetroSafe starting at $24.48/hour for Call Takers or $27.25 for Dispatchers and will be paired with a trainer who will instruct and monitor the trainee’s progress. 

Louisville Metro offers an $8,000 public safety hiring incentive paid in installments upon hiring. Additionally, MetroSafe trainees and employees have access to an on-staff licensed clinical professional counselor for voluntary trauma-focused therapy and access to a gym with equipment donated by Planet Fitness. 

No prior experience in public safety is needed. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, have a high school diploma or equivalent and not been convicted of a felony. High school seniors who are at least 18 years of age and anticipating graduation in 2023 are welcome to apply. To be eligible for the academy, applicants must also pass a pre-employment drug screening and a polygraph test.

Applicants should apply online at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/emergency-services/services/start-your-career-louisville-metro-emergency-services.

Original source can be found here.