When most people think about the Maryland Department of State Police, they picture a trooper. While troopers are generally the "public" face of the Maryland State Police, the Maryland Department of State Police Emergency Dispatchers (MDSPED) provide the link between citizens and troopers. While not as visible as troopers on the road, each MDSPED is just as necessary and critical for the completion of the mission.
Emergency Dispatchers must be the "calm in the eye of the storm." They are often performing many functions at one time under the most stressful of conditions. They must be able to communicate precisely and clearly in emergency situations, maintaining professionalism at all times.
Emergency Dispatchers are the lifeline for both Troopers and the public at large; they are the first line responders for 911 calls and also dispatch numerous routine calls for service. It is a 24/7, 365-day operation. They are responsible for multi-channel radios, telephones and monitoring computer terminals.
Emergency Dispatcher I is the entry level of communications work in law enforcement operations. Employees may be assigned to day, evening, night or a combination of rotating shifts to include holidays, weekends and are subject to call in and overtime based on staffing needs.
