POLICE DISPATCHER

City of National City; National City (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team as a Police Dispatcher, where you will be the vital link between the public and emergency services. This role is not just a job; it's an opportunity to make a real difference in your community. You'll handle emergency and non-emergency calls, ensuring that every message is received and dispatched promptly. With a supportive work environment and the chance to develop your skills in a fast-paced setting, this position is perfect for those who thrive under pressure and want to contribute to public safety. If you have strong communication skills and a passion for service, we encourage you to apply today!

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent required.
• Two years of public contact or clerical experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receive and transmit emergency and routine messages.
• Maintain two-way radio communications with emergency units.
• Dispatch personnel and equipment according to procedures.

Skills

Customer Service

Communication Skills

Multitasking

Short-term Recall

Radio Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Two-way Radio Equipment

Computer Systems

Job description

*BOTH FULL-TIME & PART-TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE*

** Open Until Filled 

Make a difference in our community as a Police Dispatcher and join our TEAM! With a state-of-the-art facility that includes large windows providing natural light, and ergonomic sit-stand dispatcher consoles which makes the work environment satisfying and fitting our organization's values.

This is an exciting and rewarding career option! Our Police Dispatchers are first responders who serve as the primary link between the public and Police Officers receiving 911 emergency and non-emergency calls. If you are team-oriented, have a strong work ethic, and exceptional customer service and communication skills – APPLY TODAY!

THE POSITION:
Under general supervision, to receive, evaluate, and transmit emergency and routine voice radio messages; dispatch required equipment and personnel in accordance with standard policies and procedures; maintain records; and perform related duties as required.

This position will perform the key responsibilities listed below and/or may perform similar related duties not listed here.

• Monitors radio receiver for all communications concerning police department and mutual aid radio channels.
• Maintains two-way radio communications with emergency cars and other emergency units on assignments.
• Maintains contact with all field personnel.
• Receives emergency and other-type messages, secures and records/logs all information regarding type of emergency or incident, exact location, and other pertinent information.
• Dispatches personnel and equipment according to standard operating procedures.
• Keeps supervisor informed of general activities and emergency calls or situations.
• Maintains accurate records of requests for service and other departmental activities.
• May instruct other personnel in the techniques and use of the department's communication equipment.

Education:
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.

Training and Experience:
Two (2) years of public contact or clerical experience which demonstrates the ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time and use short-term recall skills. Previous radio communications experience is desirable.

Knowledge and Skills in: Correct English usage; general office practices and procedures; customer service techniques.

Ability to: Learn the rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, which governs the operation of radio transmitters or receivers; quickly recall from memory short-term information received; work under stress; exercise self-control and good judgment in emergency situations; study and maintain a knowledge of departmental policies and procedures, streets, and City geography; maintain clear and accurate records; follow written and oral instructions; speak clearly and distinctly; type at a speed of at least 40 net words per minute; work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed; and establish and maintain effective working relations with all levels of staff and the general public in routine as well as stressful situations.

The examination process will consist of the following:

1. Application: Applications will be accepted on-line only at www.nationalcityca.gov, and all notices will be sent via email. Candidates whose applications indicate the required education and experience most directly related to the position may be invited to continue in the selection process.
2. Pre-Background Questionnaire: Based upon review of applications received, those applicants who best meet the requirements indicated above will be asked to complete a Pre-Background Questionnaire.
3. Performance Test: Applicants passing the review of their pre-background questionnaire will be invited to take the Online CritiCall Test (Pass/Fail). CritiCall is a computer-based test that simulates a generic dispatch environment and is designed to measure the abilities and skills critical for public safety dispatchers such as multitasking, prioritization, map reading, memory recall, comprehension, and data entry. For additional information on the test, please visit CritiCall. The CritiCall test may be waived for candidates accepted for lateral consideration. Candidates will be notified of the test period to take the test.
4. Oral Board Interview: Candidates passing the Performance Test will be invited to continue in the selection process and forwarded to the hiring department for consideration.

Successful candidates must undergo a thorough background investigation including fingerprinting, computer voice stress analysis (CVSA), psychological evaluation, and a thorough medical examination. There are certain types of conduct, which will be automatic grounds for disqualification. Please read the information on the Disqualifying Criteria to help you identify some of the common areas of the background investigation process that may cause a delay or prevent you from competing in the selection process.

For a list of Disqualifying Criteria, click here.