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A Dispatcher I is a civilian employee of the Police Department who performs a variety of tasks in the Department’s Support Services Division. The Dispatcher I receives incoming calls for police assistance and response; acts as a primary Dispatcher when appropriate; performs a variety of general support duties related to police communications; completes a wide variety of general clerical duties.

Examples of Duties:

The Dispatcher I duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Answer emergency and non-emergency police related phone calls, help prioritize requests for service based upon available resources, receive radio requests and handle accordingly, type, process and file a wide variety of reports and materials including memos, letters, complaints, declarations, warrants, citations, crime and traffic reports.  Assists Department personnel and the public in person and by phone performing record checks, collecting fees and mailing requested reports to outside agencies in accordance with established regulations.   A Dispatcher I may be assigned to work various hours, shifts, holidays, weekends and overtime.

Typical Qualifications:

A combination of education and work experience including 2-3 years of general office work involving typing of varied materials, public contact, general filing and basic record keeping; type at least 40 wpm net.  Knowledge of business English, spelling; modern office practices and procedures; record keeping. Ability to learn assigned clerical tasks readily and to adhere to prescribed routine; write English legibly; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; type and learn the operation of other standard office equipment; a willingness to work varying shifts; and to learn radio dispatching skills. 

Salary & Benefits

The City of Pleasant Hill offers a comprehensive salary and benefits program. For detailed benefit information, please review the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Pleasant Hill Police Association.

• Salary: $6,681 - $8,612 per month.
• Health/Medical Benefit: Choice of coverage with Kaiser or Blue Shield. The City pays 80% of monthly premiums at each coverage level. In lieu of medical coverage, the City will contribute $400 (employee only coverage) or $500 (employee + 1 coverage) or $600 (family coverage) into a MissionSquare 457 deferred compensation plan.
• Dental & Vision: City-paid for employee and eligible dependents.
• CalPERS Retirement: Enrollment in 2% @ 60 (Classic Member) or 2% @ 62 (PEPRA New Member).
• MissionSquare Deferred Compensation & Roth IRA Plans: Voluntary plans available.
• Retiree Health Savings (RHS) Plan: City contributes $100.45 /month.
• Life Insurance: City-paid life insurance coverage ($50,000).
• Long Term Disability: City-paid long-term disability coverage. 
• Medicare: Employees contribute 1.45% to Medicare with employer match. 
• Flexible Spending Account (Section 125 Plan): Dependent care and out-of-pocket medical costs may be paid on a pre-tax basis.
• ScholarShare 529: College Savings Plan available to all employees.
• Wellness: Program that offers fitness classes, annual health expos, health and nutrition education, as well as a variety of mental health resources.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential and voluntary benefit provided to all employees, includes counseling and referral services. 
• Uniform Allowance: $1,136 per year, adjusted annually per cost of living.
• Shift Differential Pay: 5% of the employee’s base hourly wage.
• Educational Degree Incentive: 1.25% AA Degree or 60 semester/90 quarter units; 5% Bachelor’s Degree or 120 semester/180 quarter units; 7.5% MA/MS Degree.
• Educational Expense Reimbursement: City will reimburse for tuition, books and technology upgrades up to $500 per semester or quarter.
• Bilingual Pay: $75/month, eligible employees.
• On Duty Exercise Program: 1 hour per shift. 
• Holidays: City recognizes 14 paid holidays per year.
• Sick Leave: Earned at the rate of one day per month, with no maximum accrual.
• Vacation: Earned at the rate of one day per month in the first year, increasing with service years; Lateral accrual rate may include years of service at former agency.
• The City does not participate in Social Security. 

Application & Selection Process

Applications are only accepted online. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/pleasanthillca

Typing certification of 40 wpm net (5 minute test taken within the last 12 months) is required.  Certificates will only be accepted from a recognized business, adult school, or employment agency. Online typing test results will not be accepted. Applications received without a valid typing certificate, or not meeting the minimum words per minute (40 wpm net) will not be considered and applicants will not be contacted to correct the deficiency.

CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT: Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.  You must ensure complete submission of employment application and typing certificate as recruitment may close at any time. 

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be invited to take an online Dispatcher CritiCall test and will be notified by email of their scheduled testing date.  The most qualified applicants based on background and experience as evidenced by their application, and those with a passing score on the online test, may be invited for an oral board interview, which is weighted 100%. To be placed on an eligibility list, an applicant must receive a passing score of 70 or more from each panel member.

A thorough background check, as well as a physical, including a drug screen, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam will be conducted on the top candidates prior to appointment consideration.  Failure to achieve a qualifying score on any portion of the examination process will eliminate a candidate from further consideration.

Immigration Reform & Control Act

To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all new employees are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States on their first day of employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Pleasant Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of1990 (ADA), requests for special accommodations during any stage of the examination process should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.

Recruitment Contacts: 

Sgt. Ron Priebe, (925) 288-4644, rpriebe@pleasanthillpd.org 

Colleen Duran, HR Analyst, (925) 671-5294, cduran@phillca.gov  

A Dispatcher II is a civilian employee of the Police Department who performs a variety of tasks in the Department’s Support Services Division. The Dispatcher II acts as the Department’s primary dispatcher, receiving and relaying incoming calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance; dispatching police units; operating a variety of telecommunications equipment including radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch systems; status monitoring, records and file maintenance in a computer-aided environment; and entry level dispatch training. A Dispatcher II may be assigned to work various hours, shifts, holidays, weekends and overtime.

Additional duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: prioritize requests for service based upon available resources, receive radio requests and handle accordingly, type, process and file a wide variety of reports and materials including memos, letters, complaints, declarations, warrants, citations, crime and traffic reports. Assists Department personnel and the public in person and by phone performing record checks, collecting fees and mailing requested reports to outside agencies in accordance with established regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Have a combination of education and work experience, including a minimum of 1 year of dispatch work; 2 years general office work involving typing of varied materials, public contact, general filing and basic record keeping; type at least 40 wpm (net). Have knowledge of business English, spelling; modern office practices and procedures; record keeping. Ability to dispatch police units quickly and effectively; work under pressure; exercise independent judgment; work with minimal supervision; make sound decisions in emergency situations; learn assigned clerical tasks readily and to adhere to prescribed routine; write English legibly; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; operate computer-aided dispatch system, 911 emergency telephone, and other multi-line telephone systems, various law enforcement telecommunications systems, radio console with headsets and handsets, computer keyboards, cameras, intercoms, security. Willingness to work varying shifts and radio dispatching skills.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The City of Pleasant Hill offers a competitive compensation and benefits program.

• Salary: $6,987 to $9,050 per month. Placement within the range depends on experience and qualifications.
• Medical Benefits: Choice of coverage with Kaiser or Blue Shield. The City pays 80% of monthly premiums at each coverage level. In lieu of medical coverage, the City will contribute $400 (employee only coverage) or $500 (employee + 1 coverage) or $600 (family coverage) into a MissionSquare 457 deferred compensation plan
• Retirement: CalPERS enrollment (PEPRA New Member 2% @ 62; Classic Member 2% @ 60)
• Dental & Vision Coverage: City-paid dental and vision coverage for employee and eligible dependents
• MissionSquare Deferred Compensation & Roth IRA Plans: Voluntary plans available to all employees
• Life Insurance: City-paid life insurance coverage ($50,000)
• Long Term Disability: City-paid long-term disability coverage
• Medicare: Employees contribute 1.45% to Medicare with employer match
• Retiree Health Savings (RHS) Plan: City contributes $100.45 per month to the RHS Plan
• Section 125 Plan: Dependent care and out-of-pocket medical costs may be paid on a pre-tax basis
• Sick Leave: Earned at the rate of one day per month, with no maximum accrual
• Vacation: Earned at the rate of one day per month in the first year, increasing with service years; Lateral accrual rate may include years of service at former agency
• Holidays: City recognizes 14 paid holidays per year
• Uniform Allowance: $1,136 per year, adjusted annually per cost of living
• Shift Differential Pay: 5% of the employee’s base hourly wage
• Educational Degree Incentive: 1.25% AA Degree or 60 semester/90 quarter units; 5% Bachelor’s Degree or 120 semester/180 quarter units; 7.5% MA/MS Degree
• Educational Expense Reimbursement: City will reimburse for tuition, books and technology upgrades up to $500 per semester or quarter
• On Duty Exercise Program: 1 hour per shift
• Probationary Period: One year (12 months)

APPLICATION

Apply online: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/pleasanthillca

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a City employment application. Typing certification of 40 wpm net (5 minute test taken within the last 12 months) must be submitted with application. Certificates will only be accepted from a recognized business, adult school, or employment agency. Online typing test results will not be accepted. Applications received without a valid typing certificate, or not meeting the minimum words per minute (40 wpm net) will not be considered and applicants will not be contacted to correct the deficiency. Currently employed lateral applicants from a POST certified agency are not required to submit a typing certificate.

SELECTION PROCESS

CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT: Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. You must ensure complete submission of employment application and typing certificate as recruitment may close at any time. Priority will be given to qualified lateral applicants.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be invited to take an online Dispatcher test and will be notified by email of their scheduled testing date.  The most qualified applicants based on background and experience as evidenced by their application, and those with a passing score on the online test, may be invited for an oral board interview, which is weighted 100%.  To be placed on an eligibility list, an applicant must receive a passing score of 70 or more from each panel member.

A thorough background check, as well as a physical, drug screen, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam will be conducted on the top candidates prior to appointment consideration. Failure to achieve a qualifying score on any portion of the examination process will eliminate a candidate from further consideration.

IMMIGRATION REFORM AND CONTROL ACT

To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all new employees are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States on their first day of employment.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Pleasant Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), requests for special accommodations during any stage of the examination process should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.

A Dispatcher II is a civilian employee of the Police Department who performs a variety of tasks in the Department’s Support Services Division. The Dispatcher II acts as the Department’s primary dispatcher, receiving and relaying incoming calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance; dispatching police units; operating a variety of telecommunications equipment including radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch systems; status monitoring, records and file maintenance in a computer-aided environment; and entry level dispatch training. A Dispatcher II may be assigned to work various hours, shifts, holidays, weekends and overtime.

Additional duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: prioritize requests for service based upon available resources, receive radio requests and handle accordingly, type, process and file a wide variety of reports and materials including memos, letters, complaints, declarations, warrants, citations, crime and traffic reports.  Assists Department personnel and the public in person and by phone performing record checks, collecting fees and mailing requested reports to outside agencies in accordance with established regulations. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Have a combination of education and work experience, including a minimum of one year of dispatch work; two years general office work involving typing of varied materials, public contact, general filing and basic record keeping; type at least 40 wpm (net).  Have knowledge of business English, spelling; modern office practices and procedures; record keeping. Ability to dispatch police units quickly and effectively; work under pressure; exercise independent judgment; work with minimal supervision; make sound decisions in emergency situations; learn assigned clerical tasks readily and to adhere to prescribed routine; write English legibly; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; operate computer-aided dispatch system, 911 emergency telephone, and other multi-line telephone systems, various law enforcement telecommunications systems, radio console with headsets and handsets, computer keyboards, cameras, intercoms, security. Willingness to work varying shifts and radio dispatching skills. 

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

This is a one-year, limited-term assignment, with the possibility of extension based on budget, departmental needs and approval. The position will require a minimum of 24.5 hours and up to a maximum of 39.5 hours per week. The work schedule may include nights, weekends, and holidays. Shift schedules are reviewed every four months and are subject to change.

APPLICATION

Apply online HERE. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a City employment application. Typing certification of 40 wpm net (5 minute test taken within the last 12 months) must be submitted with application.  Certificates will only be accepted from a recognized business, adult school, or employment agency. Online typing test results will not be accepted. Applications received without a valid typing certificate, or not meeting the minimum words per minute (40 wpm net) will not be considered and applicants will not be contacted to correct the deficiency. Currently employed lateral applicants from a POST certified agency are not required to submit a typing certificate.

SELECTION PROCESS

This recruitment is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. You must ensure complete submission of employment application and typing certificate as recruitment may close at any time.  Priority will be given to qualified lateral applicants. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be invited to take an online Dispatcher test and will be notified by email of their scheduled testing date.  The most qualified applicants based on background and experience as evidenced by their application, and those with a passing score on the online test, may be invited for an oral board interview, which is weighted 100%.  To be placed on an eligibility list, an applicant must receive a passing score of 70 or more from each panel member.

A thorough background check, as well as a physical, drug screen, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam will be conducted on the top candidates prior to appointment consideration.  Failure to achieve a qualifying score on any portion of the examination process will eliminate a candidate from further consideration.

IMMIGRATION REFORM AND CONTROL ACT

To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all new employees are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States on their first day of employment.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Pleasant Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), requests for special accommodations during any stage of the examination process should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.

Questions about this recruitment? Contact Sgt. Ron Priebe, (925) 288-4644, rpriebe@pleasanthillpd.org or Colleen Duran, HR Analyst, (925) 671-5294, cduran@phillca.gov 

The City of Sunnyvale is seeking to fill the position of Public Safety Dispatcher with an energetic and highly motivated individual who possesses excellent customer service, technical and interpersonal skills.

 
Under general supervision of the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher, processes emergency and non-emergency calls for service; dispatches police, fire, medical, rescue, animal control or other emergency equipment, by telephone or radio, utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer aided dispatch systems (CAD); and performs related work as required.

The minimum qualifications required for this position are - Graduation from high school or tested equivalent; and Two years of experience dispatching police and/or fire services for a public safety agency utilizing contemporary dispatching technical tools, including computer aided dispatching systems; or successful completion of probation as a Public Safety Dispatcher-in-Training with the City of Sunnyvale.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application packet will consist of a City of Sunnyvale employment application, responses to the required supplemental questions and a current (dated within one year of application) typing certificate verifying 35 or more net words per minute (online typing certificates will not be accepted).

For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and selections may be made at any time within the process. It is recommended to apply immediately. The review of applications received will occur at the end of each month.  

**To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; 

AND

 

• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or

OR

• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; 

OR

• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

The City
The City of Santa Clara is a "full service" city – one of only a few communities in the Bay Area that has its own police, fire, library, recreation, and electric, water, and sewer utilities, as well as all of the other departments and civic amenities expected in a thriving community. Santa Clara is a family-oriented and business-friendly city, led by a city government that has developed an award-winning ethics program and a commitment to fostering public trust. Located in Santa Clara County at the southern tip of San Francisco Bay, about 45 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Clara is a strategic regional hub, convenient to freeways, airports, railroads, expressways, light rail, and other public transportation.

The Department
The men and women of the Santa Clara Police Department take tremendous pride in providing the community with outstanding service through the "Santa Clara Way" of service.  In partnership with the citizens, the team provides law enforcement services with professional and dedicated staff. The team will always identify and resolve problems utilizing all available resources and perform services professionally and with a high level of integrity. To learn more visit our website.   

The Position 
As a Public Safety Dispatcher II, this non-sworn classification dispatches public safety, fire, and emergency medical services out into the community. The successful incumbent will be responsible for receiving incoming calls for police, fire, or medical assistance and dispatch necessary units. This classification is distinguished from the Public Safety Dispatcher I by a broader range of responsibility due to a higher level of experience and training.  

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview will be required prior to appointment. 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESDIES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS. ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level classification in the non-sworn flexibility staffed Public Safety Dispatcher I/II series. Incumbents are expected to work independently and exercise judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the class of Public Safety Dispatcher I in that the latter is the entry level class where incumbents are trained on full range of dispatch functions under immediate supervision. This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher in that the latter has full responsibility for supervising a shift of Public Safety Dispatchers I/II.

 

 

Typical Duties

 

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all the duties that may be performed.

• Operates base radio console equipment, transmitting and receiving routine and emergency messages
• Receives emergency and routine requests for services from the public via 9-1-1, alternate emergency lines, and business lines
• Dispatches appropriate emergency vehicles, equipment and personnel in response to those requests, in accordance with established policies and procedures
• Coordinates emergency operations between various departmental personnel and equipment
• Operates data terminals for information pertaining to daily public safety operations, and general emergency services
• Maintains written logs, files, and computer information in the prescribed manner
• Updates computer files and performs other clerical functions and tasks as directed
• Performs other related duties as assigned

 

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Classroom education involving fire science or law enforcement related studies.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate and a valid Medical Priorities Dispatching System (MPDS) Certificate are required prior to the completion of the probationary period.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to perform all the essential functions of the job assignment. All candidates will be required to pass a City background investigation, which will include fingerprinting and may include polygraph and/or psychological testing.

PERMANENT CITY EMPLOYEES PREFERENCE POINTS
Current permanent employee candidates who receive a passing score on the examination will have an additional five (5) points added to his/her final score. 

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application. 
 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 

Knowledge of:

• General public safety radio and telephone communications systems
• Police and fire emergency procedures
• Primary roads, streets, highways, major buildings, and public facilities within the City's boundaries

Skill in:

• Reading and interpreting maps; and maintaining accurate records

Ability to:

• Read, write, spell, and speak in clear, concise English
• Learn correct telephone answering techniques, policies and procedures
• Operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system with sufficient speed and accuracy to document field activity and create calls for service within response criteria guidelines
• Analyze situations quickly and accurately, while taking effective action to assure public safety provider and citizen safety
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and distinctly using radio and telephone equipment
• Maintain composure and work accurately in emergency situations
• Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
• Establish and maintain tactful, courteous, and effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work, including the general public
• Work in a confined area, wearing a headset which restricts physical movement about the work area
• Accurately enter information into the CAD system while simultaneously receiving information by phone or radio
• Retrieve data from CAD terminal or other keyboard device, maintain appropriate documentation of previous events, details, and conversations
• Work in a highly structured environment where all communications are recorded or documented and reviewed as public record
• Handle multiple priorities and organize workload
• Extract information or data from other computer systems
• View multiple video display terminals for extended periods of time in low variable light conditions
• Distinguish and interpret the meaning of colors on video display terminals
• Distinguish and comprehend simultaneous communications from several sources
• Work continuously or uninterrupted as required, standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Perform with a high standard of customer service, professional conduct, and civic responsibility
• Use emergency medical questioning techniques and provide medical instructions via telephone when required
• Type at a net rate of 35 wpm on a computer keyboard

Additional Information: 
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a complete City Application and meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov.  This position is continuous: Applications will be reviewed at the end of each month for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

Per Diem Dispatchers will provide public safety dispatching at Levi's Stadium and/or Santa Clara Police/Fire Communications.

 

As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants. 

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

 

 

Typical Duties

 

Duties may include, but are not limited, to the following:

• Operates base radio console equipment, transmitting and receiving routine and emergency messages
• Receives emergency and routine requests for services from the public via 9-1-1, alternate emergency lines, and business lines
• Dispatches appropriate emergency vehicles, equipment, and personnel in response to those requests, in accordance with established policies and procedures
• Coordinates emergency operations between various departmental personnel and equipment
• Operates data terminals for information pertaining to daily public safety operations and general emergency services
• Maintains written logs, files, and computer information in the prescribed manner
• Updates computer files and performs other clerical functions and tasks as directed
• Performs other related duties as assigned
• Receives emergency and routine requests for services from the public via 9-1-1, alternate emergency lines, and business lines

 

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements: 

Graduation from high school or possession of a GED

 

Minimum Experience Requirements: 

• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

 

License/Certifications: 

Possession of a current P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatch certificate is required.

 

Other Requirements:  

• Incumbents must have the ability to work, as assigned, on schedules that may include Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and non-traditional work hours.
• Must be able to perform all the essential functions of the job assignment.  All candidates will be required to pass a City background investigation, which will include fingerprinting and/or psychological testing.

 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 

Knowledge of:

• General public safety radio and telephone communications systems
• Police and fire emergency procedures
• Primary roads, streets, highways, major buildings, and public facilities within the City's boundaries

 

Skill In: 

• Reading and interpreting maps; and maintaining accurate records

 

Ability to: 

• Read, write, spell, and speak in clear, concise English
• Learn correct telephone answering techniques, policies and procedures
• Operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system with sufficient speed and accuracy to document field activity and create calls for service within response criteria guidelines
• Analyze situations quickly and accurately, while taking effective action to assure public safety provider and citizen safety
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and distinctly using radio and telephone equipment
• Maintain composure and work accurately in emergency situations
• Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
• Establish and maintain tactful, courteous, and effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work, including the general public
• Work in a confined area, wearing a headset which restricts physical movement about the work area
• Accurately enter information into the CAD system while simultaneously receiving information by phone or radio
• Retrieve data from CAD terminal or other keyboard device, maintain appropriate documentation of previous events, details, and conversations
• Work in a highly structured environment where all communications are recorded or documented and reviewed as public record
• Handle multiple priorities and organize workload
• Extract information or data from other computer systems
• View multiple video display terminals for extended periods of time in low variable light conditions
• Distinguish and interpret the meaning of colors on video display terminals
• Distinguish and comprehend simultaneous communications from several sources
• Work continuously or uninterrupted as required, standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Perform with a high standard of customer service, professional conduct, and civic responsibility
• Use emergency medical questioning techniques and provide medical instructions via telephone when required
• Type at a net rate of 35 wpm on a computer keyboard

 

 

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Possession of a current P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatch certificate. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

 

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov. 

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the general supervision of a Senior Public Safety Dispatcher or Watch Commander and the overall direction of the Communications Operations Manager.

 

What you will do:

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

Receive emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, or other related services; determine nature and location of emergency; determine priority and dispatch emergency units as necessary and in accordance with established procedures; coordinate emergency calls and relay information and assistance requests involving other law enforcement agencies.

Use a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system to enter calls for service/radio traffic and monitor real-time status of situations; use an automated records management system (RMS) related to public safety activities to enter and retrieve information.

Maintain contact with all units on assignment; maintain status and location of field units and monitor radio frequencies of outside public safety agencies.

Receive incoming telephone and voice radio calls for non-emergency assistance; dispatch animal control, utilities and street maintenance staff as needed.

Enter, retrieve, and update information from teletype networks, including the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) relating to wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, stolen vehicles and other information.

Maintain familiarity with major roads, streets, areas, and industrial and public facilities within City boundaries.

May complete recovered stolen vehicle reports in accordance with established procedures.

Relay emergency and non-emergency information to public safety personnel and other agencies in the field.

Monitor multiple frequencies.

Determine and report the need for equipment repairs.

Receive structured classroom and on-the-job training.

Assist in relaying information during response to natural disasters.

Perform the duties of a Public Safety Call Taker, as assigned. 

Perform related work as necessary.

JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Emergency telephone answering techniques, policies, and procedures.
• General policies and procedures used in the operation of the City's dispatch center.
• Primary roads, streets, highways, areas, major buildings, and public facilities within the City's  boundaries.
• Standard radio broadcasting procedures and rules associated with operation of an emergency services communication network; learn to monitor multiple frequencies.
• Radio and other codes used in the creation of computer aided calls for dispatch.
• Correct telephone answering techniques, policies, and procedures.
• Use of various police report forms.
• Correct English usage, including comprehension and grammar.
• Modern office equipment and methods including use of computer applications in word processing.
• Principles and practices of customer service. 

• Read, write, spell, and speak in concise English.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Deal tactfully with the public and others.
• Work in a confined area and wear a headset.
• Remain calm during emergencies and obtain relevant information from callers who are in stressful situations.
• Answer and prioritize calls for emergency and non-emergency police, fire, and other City services and to dispatch appropriate units in response in a courteous manner.
• Accurately enter information in the computer system while receiving information by telephone. 
• Operate a computer aided dispatch system, video display terminal, teletype and other computer programs and equipment related to public safety communications and records.
• Interpret maps.
• Effectively perform emergency telephone answering and processing duties.
• Read and comprehend information and instructions.
• Perform several job tasks effectively under pressure for sustained periods of time.
• Memorize and retain information from a variety of sources.
• Interpret information from distraught, incoherent or angry callers and relay critical facts to appropriate emergency or nonemergency personnel.
• Speak clearly and concisely via radio, telephone and in person.
• Type accurately at a speed of 35 words per minute.
• Work various shifts, including day, swing and graveyard as well as weekends and holidays.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Depending on employee group, some of these benefits may include:

• Alternative Work Schedule and/or Telecommuting 
• Vacation - 80 hours minimum
• 15 Paid Holidays
• Generous employer contribution for Health, Dental and Vision coverage
• CalPERS Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (2.5% at 55 for Classic CalPERS members | 2.0% at 62 for New CalPERS members | 3.0% at 50 for Classic Safety members | 2.7% at 57 for New Safety Members) - No Social Security participation.
• Life and Disability Insurance and Paid Leave
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Health and Wellness Reimbursement
• Professional Development Reimbursement
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (employee paid)

7. Background -  Penal Code §13510(c) authorizes POST to establish minimum standards for recruiting and training public safety dispatchers working in agencies that participate in the POST program.   In addition, public safety dispatches are required to go through a thorough background investigation in the State of California.  View Document - California Code of Regulations (westlaw.com)

EXAM INFORMATION

• Receives emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, private companies and other jurisdictions.
• Dispatches police and fire personnel or other City services in response to such calls.
• Relays emergency and non-emergency information to public safety personnel in the field.
• Relays information to other agencies as required.
• Monitors multiple frequencies.
• Maintains accurate record of location and status of public safety units.
• Operates a manual dispatch system when necessary.
• Assists in relaying information during response to natural disasters.
• Performs related work as necessary.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: Open Until Filled

Please note, this is the posting for the "Lateral Communications Operator" position. See below for Lateral Communications Operator requirements.
 

THE POSITION:

 

The City of Hayward is excited to announce its recruitment for the position of Lateral Communications Operator. 

DEFINITION

Under general supervision from the Communications Supervisor, the Communications Operator operates a computer aided dispatch system receiving calls and dispatching police, fire or other City services.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is a journey technical level position in which incumbents are expected to independently perform the full range of duties assigned. This class is distinguished from the Communications Supervisor in that the latter provides technical and functional supervision over assigned communication personnel.

THE DEPARTMENT

The Communications Center in the Support Services Division of the Hayward Police Department is responsible for dispatching both Police and Fire Services throughout the City of Hayward. The Hayward Police Department is one of 18 CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement) accredited police departments in California and is committed to maintaining CALEA's high standards and broadly recognized excellence.
The Communications Center is frequently the first point of contact that a member of the public will have when requesting assistance from the City of Hayward. The information gathered by the communications operator during this contact is critical to a positive outcome. The Communications Center consists of six (6) stations with each communications operator assigned to a specific job.
 

 

Essential Duties

Duties may include but are not limited to the following: 

JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• English usage, including comprehension and grammar.

Ability to:

• Read and comprehend information and instructions.
• Learn to operate manual and computer aided radio and telephone equipment in dispatching public safety equipment and personnel.
• Perform several job tasks effectively under pressure for sustained periods of time.
• Memorize and retain information from a variety of sources.
• Interpret information from distraught, incoherent or angry callers and relay critical facts to appropriate emergency or nonemergency personnel.
• Assign priorities both to incoming calls and to the dispatch of calls for service.
• Speak clearly and concisely via radio, telephone and in person.
• Respond to requests for emergency and nonemergency services in a professional and courteous manner.
• Type accurately at a speed of 35 words per minute.
• Work various shifts, including day, swing and graveyard as well as weekends and holidays.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

A complete job description and list of duties can be found at www.hayward-ca.gov.

 

Minimum Qualifications

LATERAL REQUIREMENTS:

Experience: Two (2) years of experience as a public safety dispatcher for a Public Safety Answering Point, including heavy public contact while performing multiple tasks and using a computer-aided dispatch system.

Education: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

Licenses and Certificates: Completion of the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Public Safety Dispatcher course is highly desirable.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Typing Certificate: A typing certificate with 35 net words per minute 

1. Certificates will be accepted from a public school, business school or temporary agency; certificates from Internet testing services and/or home computer CD testing will NOT be accepted.
2. Typing certificate (or signed statement on official letterhead from the testing agency) must be dated no earlier than six (6) months prior to the date of the application filing.
3. Typing certificate (or signed letter) must state all of the following information:

· Five (5)-minute timed typing test.
· Gross typing speed in words per minute.
· Gross number of errors.
· Net words per minute

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