Police Dispatcher

California State University, Northridge•Northridge, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Police Dispatcher coordinates emergency communications, dispatches officers, responds to public inquiries, monitors campus security systems, and maintains law enforcement records. The role supports public safety operations, facilitates emergency responses, and provides professional assistance to the campus community. The Dispatcher answers and screens calls to the police department, eliciting and recording relevant information from crime victims, witnesses, and members of the public. The role operates police and other emergency communications equipment to dispatch officers to service calls, critical incidents, and emergencies; uses automated dispatch and law enforcement systems to enter, research, and retrieve information; monitors security and fire alarm systems and coordinates responses; and maintains records and files in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Other duties may be assigned. This is a regular, full-time position for 40 hours per week with rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. It has a one-year probationary period. The anticipated hiring range is $4,611–$5,848 per month, depending on qualifications and experience; the classification salary range is $4,611–$6,718 per month. The position is designated sensitive and requires satisfactory background and clearance checks, including POST-related requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Typically, one year of full-time, verifiable experience using a switchboard and two-way radio communication system in a law enforcement or comparable agency within the last ten years.
Must have completed, or be able to attend and successfully complete, the Police Officers Standards and Training (POST) Dispatcher Course.
Applicants without a POST Dispatcher Certificate must pass a written test related to essential dispatching skills.
Must successfully pass a POST background investigation, physical and psychological examinations, drug testing, and related requirements.
Must pass fingerprint clearance (LiveScan) and POST medical and psychological examinations.
Ability to communicate clearly, professionally, and empathetically with diverse people, including callers in emergencies or stressful situations.
Ability to remain composed under pressure, exercise sound judgment, and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced emergency communications environment.
Knowledge of emergency dispatch procedures, law enforcement communications protocols, and public safety operations.
Proficiency in operating computer-aided dispatch systems, emergency telephone equipment, radio communications, and law enforcement databases.
Ability to accurately document, retrieve, and maintain confidential records and information in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to coordinate emergency responses and collaborate with public safety personnel and campus stakeholders.
Must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States; the university does not currently sponsor staff or management positions for H-1B employment visas.

Responsibilities

Answer and screen incoming police department calls, gathering and recording relevant information from callers, crime victims, and witnesses.
Operate police and emergency communications equipment to dispatch officers to service calls, critical incidents, and emergencies.
Use automated dispatch and law enforcement systems and databases to enter, research, and retrieve information.
Monitor security and fire alarm systems and coordinate responses.
Maintain records and files in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Respond to public inquiries and provide professional assistance to the campus community.
Support public safety operations and facilitate emergency responses.
Perform other duties as assigned.