POLICE DISPATCHER I

Cal Poly Humboldt; California (MO); On-site; USD 5,000 - 7,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package

15 paid holidays

Retirement plan

Job summary

Cal Poly Humboldt is seeking a Police Dispatcher I to handle emergency and non‑emergency calls, dispatch police units, and maintain records. Under supervision, you will operate a computerized dispatch system and support campus safety operations.

The role requires a high school diploma, one year of dispatch or two-way radio experience, and completion of the POST Dispatcher Course; familiarity with CLETS/NCIC and RIMS is preferred. Shift flexibility and confidentiality are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion or ability to attend POST Dispatcher Course.
• Experience with switchboard and two-way radio in law enforcement is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Answer and prioritize 911 and non‑emergency calls.
• Dispatch police units via computerized system.
• Maintain radio contact and logging of status.
• Enter records in law-enforcement databases (CLETS/NCIC/CLEWS).
• Prepare reports and assist with records management.

Skills

Dispatch knowledge

Radio communication

Attention to detail

Confidentiality

Independent decision making

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

POST Dispatcher Course

Tools

CLETS/NCIC

RIMS system

Automated dispatch

Job description

Police Dispatcher I

Job # 559101 | Posted: July 20, 2026 | Open Until Filled

Salary: 12‑Month, CSU Classification Salary Range: $4,611 – $6,718 per month (Step 1 – Step 20). Anticipated Hiring Salary: $4,611 per month (Step 1).

Benefits: Full‑time, benefited, non‑exempt, 12‑month pay plan, one‑year probationary period. Premium benefits package including vacation, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, pre‑tax health and dependent care accounts, fee‑waiver education program, California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and 15 paid holidays.

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 also manages basic records maintenance and distribution.

Key Responsibilities

Dispatching – 60%

• Answers incoming telephone calls (including 911 and TDD) and receives initial information, evaluates, and prioritizes calls for proper dispatch and disposition.
• Dispatches police units using a computerized dispatch system.
• Maintains constant radio contact with all personnel in the field and logs status.
• Monitors radio traffic of other agencies and campus departments.
• Responds to the public counter for initial reports and general questions.
• Provides general information and referrals outside normal business hours.
• Enters records into CLETS, NCIC, and CLEWS systems.
• Interprets database returns and broadcasts as needed.
• Contacts public and private agencies for mutual assistance.
• Maintains telecommunication briefing books.
• Monitors campus fire, panic, intrusion, and environmental alarm systems.
• Maintains department’s computerized law enforcement records system (RIMS).

Clerical/Record Keeping – 25%

• Processes crime reports and citations: keyboarding, printing, copying, scanning, distribution, filing.
• Files department correspondence.
• Takes messages for all personnel.
• Answers multi‑line telephones promptly and forwards calls.
• Prepares various statistical reports as requested.
• Documents parking citations, permits, boots, and queries parking computer systems.
• Updates 826-INFO line as directed.
• Archives reports, records, and logs.

Public Safety Support/Miscellaneous – 10%

• Keeps supervisor informed about work progress and potential issues.
• Assists with campus lost and found.
• Maintains logs via computer‑aided dispatch, Excel, or specialty forms.
• Processes RIMS warrant database.
• Issues building pass records.
• Maintains key log for campus keys.
• Updates dispatch, radio, CLETS, and NCIC manuals.
• Responds to public queries professionally.
• Attends meetings, workshops, training sessions.
• Coordinates with personnel to maximize interdepartmental operations.
• May train new dispatchers.
• Performs other related duties.
• Monitors CCTV system and remote control.
• Operates campus emergency public address system during emergencies and tests.

Other Duties – 5%

• Perform duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of legal codes, procedures, and dispatch techniques.
• Effective radio communication.
• Knowledge of public safety agencies and protocols.
• Achievement of POST Dispatcher certificate.
• Proficiency with automated dispatch and law‑enforcement databases.
• Independent decision making under routine and emergency situations.
• Good geographic knowledge and map reading.
• Accurate interpretation of written policies.
• Clear verbal and written communication.
• Strong working relationships and composure under stress.
• Confidentiality of sensitive information.

Minimum Qualifications

• One year verifiable experience using a switchboard and two‑way radio communication in law enforcement or a comparable agency within the last ten years.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to use phonetic alphabet, speak clearly, follow written instructions, transfer information accurately, handle interpersonal interactions, and learn dispatch systems.
• Completion or ability to attend and complete POST Dispatcher Course.
• Successful written test on dispatching skills and PASSP background check, physical, psychological, drug testing.
• Shift flexibility: rotate, nights, weekends, overtime, holidays, emergency call‑back.
• Typing speed of 45 wpm.
• Meet California State University System minimum requirements for Police Dispatcher Position Skill Level I.
• Pass POST background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years of clerical experience with public contacts, or one year of military or civilian public safety (police/fire) experience, or one year of dispatcher experience.
• California POST Basic Dispatch certificate.
• POST Entry‑Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery Total T‑Score of 55 or higher.

Application Procedure

• Letter of Interest
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Contact information for at least three Supervisor references

Application Deadline

The deadline to submit application materials for first review is 11:55 p.m. on July 20, 2026.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cal Poly Humboldt is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We are committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace.