POLICE DISPATCHER I

California State University, Chico; California; On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Cal Poly Humboldt is seeking a Police Dispatcher I in Humboldt, CA. The role involves receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, prioritizing dispatch, and coordinating with police personnel using a computerized system. The position also handles basic records maintenance and public safety support.

You will work under the Police Lieutenant, ensuring quick, clear, and accurate communication. Requires experience with public safety communications, POST dispatcher coursework, and CSU requirements.

Qualifications

• Experience with switchboard and two-way radio in law enforcement or similar agency.
• Ability to type 45 words per minute.
• Completion of POST Dispatcher Course or eligibility to attend.
• Must meet CSU minimum requirements for Police Dispatcher at Skill Level I.

Responsibilities

• Answer 911 and non-emergency calls, obtain information, and prioritize dispatch.
• Dispatch police units using a computerized dispatch system.
• Maintain constant radio contact and track unit location and status.
• Monitor campus alarm systems and CCTV as appropriate.
• Maintain department records in RIMS and assist with reports.
• May train new dispatchers.

Skills

Emergency communication

Two-way radio

Public safety

Typing 45 wpm

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

POST Dispatcher Course

Tools

RIMS

CAD

CLETS/NCIC

Job description

Overview

Police Dispatcher I – Job # 559101 | Location: Humboldt | Work type: Staff

Department: University Police Department

First Review Date: July 21, 2026

At Cal Poly Humboldt, bold hearts and open minds shape the future.

Cal Poly Humboldt is a public university within the California State University system, offering a range of programs and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is a full-time, benefited, non-exempt, 12-month position with a one-year probationary period in the University Police Department.

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. 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), obtains initial information for calls for service, evaluates and prioritizes calls for proper dispatch and disposition.
• Dispatches police units in accordance with established procedures and policies using a computerized dispatch system.
• Maintains constant radio contact with field personnel and supports needs; accounts for location and status of all units and records related information.
• Monitors radio traffic of other police and fire agencies and campus departments (e.g., Housing & Plant Operations).
• Responds to public counter inquiries, taking initial reports or calls for service and answering general questions about campus, parking, procedures, found property, Live Scan, etc.
• Provides general information and referral services to the campus, especially outside of normal business hours.
• Performs database inquiries (e.g., CLETS, NCIC, CLEWS) including vehicle registrations, stolen property or gun checks, warrants, missing persons, and broadcasts results to officers as needed.
• Interprets database returns for officers in the field and ensures proper use in accordance with law; understands misuse is a criminal offense.
• Contacts public and private agencies and requests mutual assistance (other law enforcement, fire, ambulance, towing, utilities).
• Maintains telecommunication briefing books for missing persons, runaways, wanted persons, stolen vehicles, etc.
• Monitors campus alarm systems (fire, panic, intrusion, environmental) and processes alarms per procedure.
• Maintains department's computerized records system (RIMS) including calls for service, crime reports, citations, and persons contacted.

Public Safety Support / Miscellaneous – 10%

• Informs supervisor of work progress and potential issues, offering ideas for improvement.
• Assists with campus lost-and-found processes (processing, filing, owner contact).
• Maintains logs via CAD, Excel, and other forms (maintenance requests, incident memorandums, activity logs, building schedules).
• Processes and maintains RIMS warrant database through court reports.
• Issues and maintains records for building access systems (after-hours use)
• Distributes and maintains logs for campus keys checked out from the department.
• Maintains and updates dispatch, radio, CLETS, and NCIC manuals as needed.
• Responds to public inquiries courteously with accurate information.
• Attends meetings, trainings, and reviews materials to stay current on best practices.
• Coordinates with appropriate parties to maximize interdepartmental operations.
• May train new dispatchers.
• Performs other related duties consistent with the role.
• Monitors and uses CCTV systems and related recordings as appropriate.
• Operates campus emergency public address system during emergencies and tests.

Other Duties as Assigned – 5%

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

As stated in Classification Standards:

• Working knowledge of legal codes, procedures for receiving complaints and dispatching campus officers.
• Ability to communicate effectively via police radio systems.
• Working knowledge of public safety agencies and communication protocols.
• Ability to use automated dispatch and law enforcement databases for data entry and retrieval.
• Ability to respond quickly, evaluate information, and make appropriate decisions in routine, non-routine, and emergency situations.
• Geographical knowledge of campus layout; ability to read maps and floor plans to guide officers.
• Ability to interpret policies, follow instructions, and transfer information clearly.
• Ability to provide clear verbal directions quickly and accurately.
• Strong written communication and ability to summarize information.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality under stress and with the public.

As related to Major Responsibilities:

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle multiple events under stress and communicate clearly.
• Ability to hear and record radio transmissions, alarms, scanner traffic and telephone conversations, often simultaneously.
• Ability to sit/stand for extended periods; typical shifts may be long (e.g., 12-hour).
• Ability to remain calm and professional during emergencies and high-stress interactions.
• Ability to elicit information from upset individuals in a calm, professional manner.
• Ability to operate required public safety telecommunications equipment and computer systems.
• Ability to learn campus geography, streets and buildings; read manuals and codes.
• Ability to use sound judgment and follow policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in technical and non-technical language.
• Ability to work with diverse communities in a respectful and professional manner.
• Acknowledgement of POST Dispatcher certification where applicable.

Minimum Qualifications:

Entry to the first level typically requires one year of verifiable experience with a switchboard and two-way radio in a law enforcement or comparable agency within the last ten years, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Must be able to use a phonetic alphabet, speak clearly, follow instructions, transfer information, handle interpersonal interactions, and learn automated dispatch and law enforcement systems.

Incumbents must have completed or be able to attend and complete the Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T) Dispatcher Course. If not already certified, candidates will be required to pass a written test related to dispatching skills and meet supplemental POST requirements (background check, physical and psychological exams, drug testing, Live Scan, etc.).

a. Availability to rotate shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, and emergency call-back.

b. Ability to type 45 words per minute.

c. Must meet CSU minimum requirements for a Police Dispatcher at Skill Level I.

d. Ability to pass POST background investigation for dispatch position.

Preferred Qualifications:

Two years of clerical experience with public contact; or one year of military or civilian public safety (police/fire) experience; or one year experience as a dispatcher operating radio or other communications equipment.

A California POST Basic Dispatch certificate; proof of POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery with 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
• 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. For inquiries, contact [e-mail] or Cal Poly Humboldt’s Human Resources Office at [phone].

Equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination statements follow in policy form as required by CSU and Cal Poly Humboldt. All university programs and activities are open to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected status. Cal Poly Humboldt is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and employment.

Other information: Class Code: 8800 • Publication Date: 07/06/2026