Dispatcher II

About the role

The Police and Fire-Rescue Departments' Dispatcher II positions involve answering 50-170 calls daily, working long shifts, and responding to emergencies. These roles require multi-tasking skills and quick decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Answer 911 and non-emergency calls
• Elicit essential incident information from callers
• Determine the nature and priority of requests
• Enter information into a CAD system
• Answer routine inquiries
• Refer calls to appropriate departments

Requirements

• Must be a US citizen or have legal right to work
• Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Experience: One year as a Dispatcher in a law enforcement or fire department
• Highly desirable: Ability to communicate in Spanish, Korean, Arabic, Farsi, Somali, Chinese, Indochinese, or Tagalog

Qualifications

• Must meet minimum requirements for education and experience
• Must pass a performance test
• Must be available to work during all City holidays and extended shifts
• May receive additional pay for night shifts and special assignments

Skills

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and under pressure
• Strong multitasking and decision-making abilities
• Knowledge of San Diego's dispatch system

Benefits

• Wage increases based on experience and performance
• Automatic enrollment in SDCERS for eligible employees
• Opportunity for additional pay for specialized certifications and assignments

Pay

• Starting hourly rate varies by department
• Additional pay for night shifts, special assignments, and EMD certification

Schedule

• Rotated shifts covering day, evening, and night shifts
• Typical work hours: 10 hours per shift, 4 days per week
• May work extended periods of night or unusual shifts
• Work 24/7, seven days a week

Notes for Police and Fire-Rescue Departments

• May be required to undergo a comprehensive background investigation including a polygraph exam
• Felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, or drug use may disqualify candidates
• May be required to work during all City holidays and extended shifts
• May receive additional pay for night shifts and special assignments

Notes for Police Department

• Typical starting hourly rate: $33.53
• Must obtain P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher Course Certificate within one year
• Eligible for 20% additional pay with P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher Course Certificate
• Operators in the 911 Police Department Phone Room are eligible for 5% additional special assignment pay
• Work 10 hours per shift, 4 days per week, with 3 consecutive days off
• May be required to work overtime

Notes for Fire-Rescue Department

• Work 12-hour shifts (44/36 rotation schedule)
• May be required to work overtime during training
• Eligible for 17.5% additional pay after EMD certification
• All dispatcher classifications are subject to mandated overtime

Screening Process

• Application Review
• Performance Test (computer-based work simulation)
• Waivers for previous dispatch experience or test results

Supplemental Information

• Personal History Statement required for Police Department positions
• Job involves working in a confined area for long periods
• Individuals must be able to work through a structured chain of command
• May be required to change shifts and cancel days off on short notice
• May be required to work overtime