Communications Operator I

City of Vallejo; Vallejo (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Vallejo is hiring for a full‑time Dispatcher position, responsible for handling emergency calls efficiently and accurately. This role involves operating dispatch equipment, monitoring communications, and coordinating with police and emergency units.

Candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED, with clerical experience preferred and skills in customer service and effective communication. The position offers various shifts and requires ability to work under stress.

Qualifications

• Clerical experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of modern office procedures and correct English usage.
• Computer proficiency, including word processing and email.
• Typing speed of at least 35 words per minute.
• Strong interpersonal skills to handle upset citizens.
• Capacity to work various shifts and sit or stand for long periods.
• Valid California driver's license or ability to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Receive, interpret, and respond to emergency calls using a dispatch system.
• Assign calls to police or emergency units, maintaining accurate logs.
• Operate dispatch equipment and monitor communications.
• Coordinate emergency calls with various agencies.
• Respond to public inquiries efficiently.

Skills

Customer service

Telephone answering techniques

Effective communication

Multi-tasking

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Computer-aided dispatch systems

Standard office equipment

Job description

Position Summary

This recurring full‑time position allows filling of full‑time, part‑time, limited‑term, and temporary vacancies for up to one year. The incumbent performs complex duties directly supporting public safety personnel through receipt, interpretation, and dispatching of calls for law enforcement, fire, ambulance, and other emergency assistance. Responsibilities include utilizing a computer‑aided dispatch system, monitoring two‑way radio communications, maintaining status of field units, and providing information to the public.

Responsibilities

• Receive, interpret, classify, prioritize, and respond to routine and emergency calls, entering relevant information using a computer‑aided dispatch system.
• Assign calls to appropriate police or emergency units, coordinate with patrol supervisors, and maintain accurate logs of all field calls and units dispatched.
• Operate dispatch equipment, monitor multiple screens, and retrieve information from databases on wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registrations, etc.
• Coordinate emergency calls and relay information with other agencies using telecommunications systems.
• Provide officers and personnel with information such as warrants, vehicle, driver’s license, and criminal history data.
• Maintain automated and manual logs, records, and files related to communications center activities.
• Attend court appearances and conduct general clerical duties including filing and indexing.
• Respond to public inquiries, provide information, and resolve complaints efficiently.
• Operate a motor vehicle as required and perform mobile dispatch duties where necessary.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED; some clerical experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of customer service telephone answering, modern office procedures, and correct English usage.
• Computer proficiency, including use of a PC with mapping features, word processing, and email.
• Typing speed of at least 35 words per minute.
• Ability to act decisively under stress, communicate clearly, and comply with oral and written instructions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to handle upset or irate citizens respectfully.
• Capacity to work various shifts, flexible hours, and sit or stand for long periods.
• License or ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Customer service and professional telephone answering techniques.
• Correct English usage, spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• Ability to learn and apply departmental rules, policies, and procedures.
• Effective use of two‑way radio and computer‑aided dispatch systems.
• Map reading and general knowledge of surrounding geography.
• Communication skill to elicit information from upset citizens.
• Maintain confidentiality and routine communication with diverse personnel.
• Multi‑tasking and the ability to maintain composure in stressful conditions.

Tools and Equipment

• Telephone console for 911 and non‑emergency calls.
• PC computer-aided dispatch systems with mapping and printing features.
• Radio console controls, headsets, mobile data computers.
• Standard office equipment, fax machine, and copy machine.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Vallejo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City provides equal employment opportunity for all qualified persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, or other non‑job‑related factors.