Assistant Communications Operator

City of Visalia • Visalia, CA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The City of Visalia Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Communications Operator (Dispatch Trainee). This position requires successful completion of the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery. The tentative date for testing is Tuesday, September 29, 2026. A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 corrected WPM before hire. The Operations Division consists of the Patrol Bureau and Communications Unit that provide patrol, traffic, commercial, and emergency communications services for the Police Department. The Patrol Bureau operates out of two District Substations, one in each policing district, and the Visalia Emergency Communications Center. In 2025, the Department fielded more than 264,000 police calls for service. The Assistant Communications Operator shall work under direct supervision of the Communications Supervisor. They will receive and transmit routine and emergency telephone and radio traffic, dispatch and coordinate police, fire and animal control. They will maintain and process a variety of communications paperwork, records, and logs. Perform related responsibilities as required. As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. Upon successful completion of the training period, this position may be flexed up to the Communications Operator level.

Requirements

• Successful completion of the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery
• Typing speed of 40 corrected WPM
• Two (2) years public contact or related dispatch experience involving customer service, telephone contact, problem solving, and/or clerical duties
• Possession of a high school diploma or GED
• Must be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Pass a thorough background investigation
• Pass a polygraph test
• Pass a psychological examination
• Pass a post-offer medical exam

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience working in a law enforcement communications center is desirable
• Completion of Reserve Communications Operator program or possession of POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate is desirable

Responsibilities

• Receive and transmit routine and emergency telephone and radio traffic
• Dispatch and coordinate police, fire and animal control
• Maintain and process a variety of communications paperwork, records, and logs
• Perform related responsibilities as required

Benefits

• CalPERS retirement program
• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Longevity Pay
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Onsite City Health and Wellness Clinic (no out of pocket expenses)
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED