Lead Dispatcher (Police Dispatcher II)

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

15h • Onsite

About The Position

San Diego State University is seeking an experienced and service-focused Lead Dispatcher to provide lead direction and operational oversight for the University Police Communications Center. This role coordinates dispatch operations, supports communications personnel, and ensures reliable emergency communications and public safety services for the university community.

Requirements

• One year of verifiable experience using a switchboard and two-way radio communication system in a law enforcement or comparable agency within the last ten years.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to effectively use a phonetic alphabet, speak clearly and concisely, follow oral and written instructions, transfer information accurately, handle a wide range of interpersonal interactions effectively, and learn the use of applicable automated dispatch and law enforcement systems and databases.
• Must have completed or be able to attend and successfully complete the Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Dispatcher Course.
• Incumbents who, upon hire, do not possess a P.O.S.T. Dispatcher Certificate also will be required to pass a written test related to essential dispatching skills.
• Must successfully pass supplemental P.O.S.T. requirements for dispatchers such as a background check, physical and psychological examinations, drug testing, and related requirements.
• Emergency call taking and public safety dispatch, including prioritizing incidents, assisting callers, and coordinating field responses.
• First-level supervision in a 24-hour communications center, including assigning work, adjusting staffing, training employees, and addressing performance concerns.
• Advanced proficiency with CAD, 9-1-1, multi-channel radio consoles, display terminals, and related communications equipment.
• Knowledge of CLETS requirements and the ability to accurately manage and safeguard information in law enforcement databases.
• Ability to monitor, troubleshoot, and coordinate support for communications center systems, including alarms, access control, and CCTV.
• Ability to coordinate mutual aid and information sharing with law enforcement, fire, emergency medical, and other public safety agencies.
• Ability to apply and improve dispatch procedures, quality standards, and training practices while recommending solutions to operational issues.
• Ability to remain composed, maintain confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and communicate clearly during high-stress incidents.
• Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
• Achievement of the P.O.S.T. Dispatcher certificate.

Nice To Haves

• Possession of a P.O.S.T. Intermediate and/or Advanced Dispatcher Certificate
• Completion of the P.O.S.T. Communications Training Officer course
• Completion of the P.O.S.T. Civilian Supervisory course
• Completion of the P.O.S.T. Tactical Dispatcher course
• Bilingual skills are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide lead direction to assigned personnel, establish work priorities, review work, and provide input on employee performance.
• Oversee daily Communications Center operations, staffing, and operational readiness while ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Promote teamwork, professionalism, and high-quality service among Communications Center personnel.
• Ensure operational readiness of 9-1-1, radio, CAD, fire alarm, access control, CCTV, and other Communications Center systems.
• Receive and process emergency and routine calls, dispatch police personnel, and maintain accurate CAD records.
• Troubleshoot equipment and system issues and coordinate technical support when needed.
• Support police, dispatch, and records functions and coordinate assistance or mutual aid with outside agencies.
• Enter, retrieve, update, and validate information in CLETS and other authorized law enforcement databases.
• Serve as the agency's backup Agency Terminal Coordinator (ATC), as needed.

Benefits

• 15 paid holidays
• vacation
• sick leave
• CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare
• reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC
• Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost
• CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents
• FlexCash
• life and disability insurance
• legal and pet plans
• Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities

What This Job Offers

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