POLICE DISPATCHER I

Humboldt State University; Arcata (CA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 48,216; Full time

Job summary

Humboldt State University is seeking a Police Dispatcher I to join the University Police Department in Humboldt, CA. You will receive emergency and non-emergency calls, prioritize and dispatch units, and maintain radio communications to ensure rapid, accurate responses.

Under supervision you will perform basic records duties, monitor campus alarms, and assist with training of new dispatchers. Availability of varied shifts is required.

Qualifications

• Experience using a switchboard and two-way radio in a law enforcement or similar setting.
• Knowledge of CLETS/NCIC/RIMS databases is preferred.
• Ability to learn and apply dispatch procedures and safety protocols.
• POST certification is preferred or required.

Responsibilities

• Answer emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatch police units.
• Maintain radio contact with field personnel and monitor status of units.
• Enter and manage records in campus dispatch systems and databases.
• Assist with public counter inquiries and referrals.

Skills

Police radio systems

Emergency dispatch

Public safety communication

Calm under pressure

Interdepartmental coordination

Education

High school diploma

POST Dispatcher Course

Job description

POLICE DISPATCHER I

Job no: 559101

Work type: Staff

Location: Humboldt

Categories: Unit 7 - CSUEU - Clerical and Administrative Support Services, Administrative, Probationary, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)

Police Dispatcher I

Department: University Police Department

First Review Date: July 21, 2026

Position Summary: Under the general supervision of the Police Lieutenant, the Police Dispatcher receives emergency and non-emergency calls from the public or other agencies, maintains effective and efficient communications, and dispatches police personnel following prescribed procedures. The position is also responsible for basic records maintenance and distribution. Job duties must be performed quickly, clearly and accurately.

Key Responsibilities:

• Dispatching – 60%: Answers incoming telephone calls (including 911 and TDD calls for fire, medical, police or other emergency services), evaluates and prioritizes calls for proper dispatch and disposition; dispatches police units using a computerized dispatch system; maintains constant radio contact with field personnel; accounts for location and status of all units; records information associated with field calls; monitors radio traffic of other agencies and campus departments; responds to public counter inquiries; provides information and referrals; enters records into CLETS, NCIC and CLEWS; interprets database returns for officers; contacts public and private agencies for mutual assistance; maintains briefing books for missing persons, wanted persons, stolen vehicles, etc.; monitors campus alarm systems and processes alarms; maintains department’s computerized records system (RIMS).
• Other dispatch and records duties: process crime reports and citations; take messages; answer multi-line phones; prepare statistical reports; enter and document parking citations and permits; update information lines; archive reports and logs.
• Public Safety Support/Miscellaneous – 10%: Inform supervisor of progress and problems; assist with campus lost and found; maintain various logs; manage warrants database; issue and maintain building access records; distribute campus keys; update dispatch, radio, CLETS and NCIC manuals; respond to questions; attend trainings and meetings; coordinate interdepartmentally; may train new dispatchers; monitor CCTV as needed; operate campus emergency public address system during emergencies and tests.
• Other Duties as Assigned – 5%

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of legal codes, procedures and techniques for receiving complaints, dispatching and communicating with campus officers.
• Ability to communicate effectively using police radio systems and understand public safety-related agencies and protocols.
• Ability to independently respond quickly, evaluate information, and make appropriate decisions in routine, non-routine and emergency situations.
• Ability to read maps and geographic features, transfer information, and provide clear directions quickly.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and work under pressure with professionalism.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the campus community and general public.
• Ability to learn and use applicable dispatch and law enforcement databases and systems (e.g., CLETS/NCIC/RIMS).
• POST Dispatcher certificate achievement and ability to obtain/maintain required certifications.

As Related to Major and General Responsibilities:

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle simultaneous events under stress and communicate clearly and concisely.
• Ability to hear, record and recall radio transmissions, alarms and telephone conversations; ability to sit/stand for extended periods (often 12-hour shifts).
• Maintain composure in emergencies; elicit information calmly from upset individuals; operate all required public safety telecommunications equipment and computer systems.
• Learn campus geography and buildings; interpret manuals and codes; exercise sound judgment; work with diverse populations professionally.
• Travel for meetings or training as needed and be capable of becoming a trainer.
• Collaborate effectively to support interdepartmental operations.
• POST Dispatcher certification is preferred/required as specified.

Minimum Qualifications:

Entry typically requires one year of verifiable experience using a switchboard and two-way radio in a law enforcement or comparable agency within the last ten years, plus a high school diploma or equivalent. Ability to use phonetic alphabet, speak clearly, follow instructions, transfer information, and learn dispatch systems.

Incumbents must have completed or be able to complete the Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T) Dispatcher Course. If not possessing a POST Certificate at hire, incumbents must pass a written test and meet POST background and medical/psychological requirements (including background check and drug testing).

Additionally, must be available to rotate shifts, work nights, weekends, overtime and emergency call-back; typing speed at least 45 wpm; meet CSU standards for Police Dispatcher I; and pass POST background investigations.

Preferred Qualifications:

Two years of clerical experience with public contacts; or one year of military or civilian public safety experience; or one year experience as dispatcher; or equivalent, operating radio or communications equipment. A California POST Basic Dispatch certificate or qualifying POST exam results (Total T-Score of 55 or higher).

Application Procedure: To apply, qualified candidates must electronically submit the following materials by clicking the Apply Now button: Letter of Interest, Resume or Curriculum Vitae, and contact information for at least three supervisor references.

Application Deadline: The deadline to submit materials for first review is 11:55 p.m. on July 20, 2026. Inquiries: [e-mail] or Cal Poly Humboldt’s Human Resources Office at [phone].

Cal Poly Humboldt is committed to equal opportunity in education and employment. All university programs and activities are open to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. We encourage applicants who support diversity and inclusion.

Affirmative Notices: CSU strongly recommends vaccination per CDC/CDPH guidance where applicable; complies with mandatory training on sexual harassment and violence; mandated reporting requirements; and background checks as a condition of employment.

Legal/Administrative: Cal Poly Humboldt is not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions. Evidence of required degrees/certifications is required prior to appointment. A contingent offer may be rescinded based on background checks. Some positions may require additional checks (credit, motor vehicle, Live Scan).

Equal Opportunity: All university programs and activities are open to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. CSU/Cal Poly Humboldt are committed to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination in education and employment.

Additional Notes: This description may include mandated reporting and compliance information applicable to CSU policies.