Public Safety Dispatcher I/II Flex (Entry Level)

About the role

Join the Corona Police Department as a Public Safety Dispatcher, where you will be at the forefront of ensuring public safety. This dynamic role requires quick thinking, sharp judgment, and top-notch customer service. You will make split-second decisions that save lives, working in a supportive and inclusive environment that values your growth, well-being, and contributions. Candidates must be available to work assigned and rotating shifts, including extended hours, weekends, and holidays.

To be considered, you must attach a valid 5-minute typing certificate of at least 40 Net WPM (test must be taken within 1 year from the application date). Online testing agencies are accepted.

Responsibilities

• Assess and prioritize emergency situations while remaining calm and using sound, independent judgment.
• Dispatch appropriate response units for a diverse range of emergency situations.
• Quickly and accurately disseminate information to public safety personnel.
• Effectively communicate with upset and irate callers; obtain necessary information from individuals in stressful or emergency situations.
• Compile and summarize information to prepare accurate, clear, and concise reports.
• Memorize codes, names, street locations, and other critical information.
• Read and interpret maps and other pertinent documentation.
• Multi-task by listening, speaking, and performing computer functions simultaneously.
• Maintain composure, alertness, and concentration during extended periods.
• Make independent decisions affecting the safety of public safety personnel, citizens, and property within established parameters.
• Learn and effectively utilize various law enforcement software programs to retrieve or record information quickly and accurately.
• Learn and apply a wide variety of classification codes, computer commands, and standard broadcasting procedures and rules.
• Operate a computerized dispatch system, radio, and telecommunications systems quickly and accurately.
• Enter and retrieve data from a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform assigned work.

Requirements

Knowledge & Education

• Completion of the twelfth (12th) grade or equivalent.
• Knowledge of operations and services of a comprehensive municipal law enforcement agency and the dispatch function, including methods and techniques of receiving, prioritizing, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
• Familiarity with principles, practices, methods, techniques, and terminology used in public safety dispatching, including computer-aided dispatch and related emergency systems.

Experience

• Public Safety Dispatcher I: One (1) year of responsible work experience involving considerable contact with the public.
• Public Safety Dispatcher II: One (1) year of increasingly responsible public safety dispatch experience as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Corona or in a comparable capacity, plus successful completion of a training program.

Licenses and Certifications

• Public Safety Dispatcher I: Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months of employment, a valid P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate (to be maintained throughout employment).
• Public Safety Dispatcher II:
  • Possession of a valid P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate (to be maintained throughout employment).
  • Possession of or ability to obtain a valid CLETS Certification (to be maintained throughout employment).

Physical/Mental Demands and Work Environment

For details on physical and mental demands, as well as the work environment, click here.

Core Values

• Integrity: Being truthful and ethical in what we do, what we say, and what we say we do in both our personal and professional lives.
• Respect: Committed to our profession and respecting one another and the community we serve.
• Inclusion: Welcoming to all, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
• Teamwork: Working together to achieve our mission, strengthening the department and community.
• Innovation: Providing modern police services and continuously improving our organizational practices.

Selection Process

• Video Interview: Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and attach a valid typing certificate will be invited to participate in a video interview (Pass/Fail).
• Online Assessment: Candidates who pass the video interview will take an online assessment simulating a "day in the life" of a Public Safety Dispatcher (Pass/Fail).
• Audio Exercise/Written Examination:
  • Audio Exercise: Listen to a recording of example calls Public Safety Dispatchers handle.
  • Written Examination: Must score a minimum of 70% to continue. Candidates with a current and active POST Basic Dispatcher certification or a T-Score of 48 or higher within the last year may waive the written exam.
• Oral Interview: Candidates will be placed on the eligibility list based on examination scores (100% weight).
• Background Investigation: Includes a polygraph examination, comprehensive medical and psychological exams, and a urine drug screen. The Chief of Police makes the final hiring decision (Pass/Fail).

About the Organization

The City of Corona, located in Riverside County, California, spans approximately 40 square miles and has a culturally diverse population of around 168,100 residents. The city operates under a Council-Manager form of government, with a total operating budget of $422.7 million for Fiscal Year 2026, including a General Fund of $231.3 million. The city employs 935 dedicated staff across departments such as Police, Fire, Public Works, and more, providing high-quality services to residents and visitors.

Corona offers a strong economy, expanding retail and commercial sectors, and a high quality of life with access to outdoor activities like skiing, surfing, and boating within an hour's travel time.