Dispatcher I/II (Full-time)

Arcadia, CA Police; Arcadia (CA); On-site; USD 58,008 - 72,372; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CalPERS retirement plan

Three-tier monthly benefit allowance up to $1,800

City-paid Vision Plan

City-paid Life Insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Bilingual pay

Job summary

A city police department in Arcadia, California, is seeking applicants for Dispatcher I and II positions. The roles involve receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls while coordinating with law enforcement, ambulance, and fire services. Candidates must possess a typing speed of 35 WPM and a P.O.S.T. Dispatcher certification. This opportunity offers a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including a retirement plan and tuition reimbursement.

Qualifications

• Typing speed of 35 WPM net with certification.
• Ability to communicate effectively and exercise judgment.
• Ability to learn emergency call procedures and record-keeping practices.

Responsibilities

• Receive and process calls for emergency services.
• Log all calls and units dispatched; maintain status records.
• Coordinate with other agencies and maintain confidentiality.

Skills

Typing speed 35 WPM

English language proficiency

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Valid P.O.S.T. Dispatcher/Telecommunications certification

Job description

Job Overview

The Arcadia Police Department is recruiting Dispatcher I and Dispatcher II. Dispatcher I is entry level; Dispatcher II requires additional experience or promotion from Dispatcher I. Duties involve receiving, routing, and dispatching emergency and non‑emergency calls, logging information, and coordinating with law enforcement, ambulance, and fire services.

Salary

• Dispatcher I – Monthly $4,834 – $6,031; Annually $58,008 – $72,372.
• Dispatcher II – Monthly $5,600 – $6,993; Annually $67,200 – $83,916.

Benefits

• CalPERS retirement plan
• Three‑tier monthly benefit allowance up to $1,800
• City‑paid Vision Plan for employee and family
• City‑paid Life Insurance, Accident & Dismemberment, and Long‑Term Disability
• Expected salary increases of 5% effective 07/01/2026
• Tuition reimbursement/advancement after probationary period
• Bilingual pay

Responsibilities

• Receive and process calls for ambulance, fire, law enforcement, and other services.
• Obtain information, dispatch units in accordance with established procedures, and determine priority.
• Maintain contact with calling parties and responding units.
• Log all calls and units dispatched; maintain status records.
• Coordinate with other agencies, Emergency Management Agency, and Civil Defense.
• Operate telecommunication equipment: CAD system, NCIC terminal, two‑way radio, telephone, teletype, fax, etc.
• Monitor after‑hours dispatching for multiple agencies.
• Perform record‑keeping, filing, and data entry tasks.
• Assist in training new dispatchers (Dispatcher II).
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Attend training and information sessions.

Qualifications – Dispatcher I

• Typing speed 35 WPM net as evidenced by a certified typing certificate (must be within last 12 months).
• Possession or ability to obtain a valid P.O.S.T. Dispatcher/Telecommunications certification.
• English language proficiency.
• Knowledge of office practices and computer equipment.
• Ability to learn and apply communication equipment operations, emergency call procedures, and record‑keeping practices.
• Ability to work under pressure, exercise judgment, and communicate effectively.
• Physical capability to sit for long periods and reach; availability for shift work.

Qualifications – Dispatcher II

• All qualifications for Dispatcher I plus:
• Two years of prior related experience within past five years as a Public Safety/Law‑Enforcement dispatcher or equivalent background.
• Knowledge of emergency communications equipment, maps, hazardous materials procedures, federal and local laws, and full dispatch procedures.
• Ability to perform dispatch work with minimal supervision and to train new dispatchers.

Required Documents

• Certified typing certificate (within last 12 months).
• Valid P.O.S.T. Dispatcher/Telecommunications certification.

Application & Selection Process

• Apply online; attach all required documents.
• Written exam (POST Entry‑Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery). Minimum score of 50.
• Oral interview panel – must receive 70% score.
• Chief’s interview, background check, psychological exam, and medical exam.
• Successful candidates placed on an eligibility list; interview score valid for one year.