Lead Public Safety Dispatcher

City of CovinaCovina, CA
Onsite

About The Position

The City of Covina is accepting applications for the position of Lead Public Safety Dispatcher with the Police Department. This role provides coordination and oversight of the activities of the Public Safety Communications Division, including lead worker support, performance evaluation of assigned personnel, programs, and operations. The incumbent participates in the work of civilian personnel responsible for the day-to-day operations in the Communications Division. Responsibilities include receiving and processing routine and emergency calls and alarms, dispatching public safety and public works field units, providing pre-arrival instructions, entering and retrieving data from automated law enforcement information systems, coordinating with other emergency service providers, and assisting in training less experienced personnel. This is a lead senior-level classification responsible for assisting with overseeing, directing, and coordinating complex technical, administrative, and operational support functions within the Public Safety Communications Division. It is distinguished from the Public Safety Dispatcher by its advanced knowledge of records management operations, policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements, as well as its expanded scope of responsibility and leadership authority. The incumbent ensures adherence to established policies, procedures, and service standards, and keeps superiors informed of events affecting their area of responsibility.

Requirements

  • Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience as a Public Safety Dispatcher.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Possession of an Advanced Post Dispatcher Certificate within eleven (11) months of appointment.
  • Knowledge of modern office administrative practices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of the location of major streets, public places and landmarks in the City of Covina.
  • Knowledge of public and agency desk procedures.
  • Knowledge of methods of providing services and information.
  • Ability to learn alphanumeric code systems.
  • Knowledge of Federal Communications Commission regulations governing voice radio and telephone communications.
  • Knowledge of proper operation and care of voice radio and telephone equipment.
  • Knowledge of basic principles of mathematics.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations.
  • Knowledge of methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments.
  • Knowledge of standard office procedures, practices and equipment.
  • Knowledge of modern office practices, methods and equipment, including a computer and applicable software.
  • Knowledge of methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing.
  • Knowledge of proper English, spelling and grammar.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
  • Ability to perform a variety of complex work with speed and accuracy.
  • Ability to remain calm under emergency situations.
  • Ability to learn to operate specialized law enforcement automated information, communication and dispatch systems.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, overtime and rotating shifts.
  • Ability to wear a department uniform.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
  • Ability to interpret, explain and apply applicable laws, codes and regulations.
  • Ability to read, interpret and record data accurately.
  • Ability to organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to make sound decisions within established guidelines.
  • Ability to analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response.
  • Ability to follow written and oral directions.
  • Ability to observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Skill to effectively operate specialized law enforcement automated information, communication and dispatch systems.

Responsibilities

  • Accepts lead worker responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of the Public Safety Communications Division.
  • Assists in the planning, coordination and assigning of work assignments and work schedules.
  • Reviews and participates in the work of assigned staff.
  • Assists in the training, motivation, and performance evaluation of assigned personnel.
  • Monitors staff activities to ensure adherence to safety standards, work quality, accuracy, and confidentiality requirements.
  • Assists with reviewing, implementing, and updating policies and procedures.
  • Receives and processes routine and emergency calls and alarms.
  • Dispatches public safety and public works field units as required.
  • Provides pre-arrival instructions.
  • Enters, retrieves and uses data from various automated law enforcement information systems.
  • Coordinates with other emergency service providers as appropriate.
  • Assists in the training of less experienced personnel.
  • Learns and develops an understanding of applicable policies, procedures, and work methods associated with assigned duties.
  • Receives and enters calls for service in CAD.
  • Dispatches and monitors the status of field units.
  • Interprets level of service needed through information obtained from field officers or citizens.
  • Retrieves information for officers from CLETS, including information on outstanding warrants.
  • Coordinates multi-agency responses when necessary.
  • Transfers calls to appropriate agencies if warranted.
  • Informs the Watch Commander of calls in progress.
  • Maintains records of all pending and dispatched calls for service.
  • Receives information and calls for service from other law enforcement agencies.
  • Provides information to other agencies by telephone and teletype.
  • Monitors station security after hours.
  • Monitors the City’s alarm system and determines the appropriate response.
  • Assists in the care of juveniles.
  • Provides matron services when required.
  • Responds to questions and concerns from the general public, department staff and other agencies.
  • Takes and records telephone and counter reports.
  • Provides information as appropriate and resolves service issues and complaints.
  • Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/ local agencies and associations, City management and staff, and the public.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service