Lateral Public Safety Dispatcher

Salary : $73,361.60 - $89,169.60 AnnuallyLocation : City Hall, CAJob Type: Full-TimeJob Number: LPSD26-1Department: Police DepartmentOpening Date: 02/19/2026Closing Date: ContinuousJob SummaryAre you an experienced Public Safety Dispatcher ready for your next move? Join our team and continue making a meaningful impact in your community.This lateral recruitment is open continuous, and applications will be reviewed as they are received so don't wait to apply. Lateral candidates are required to have a California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Course Certificate.Additionally, the City is in the final stages of completing our brand new Public Safety Facility, featuring a modern, state-of-the-art dispatch center built to support dispatchers with updated technology, improved workspaces, and an environment designed for efficiency, safety, and collaboration. Be among the first to enjoy our brand new station!Under general supervision, receives emergency and non-emergency calls for Police, Fire, and Public Works, and dispatches appropriate services following prescribed procedures. Answers non-emergency calls for public safety and other City departments and performs a variety of general administrative support duties including record keeping, typing, and filing.Examples of Essential Job FunctionsManagement reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.Receives and evaluates police and emergency calls, including Emergency Medical Dispatch, and related business calls for the City during an assigned portion of the 24-hours-per-day/7-days-per-week Police Department operations; gives instructions and provides information to callers and/or transfers calls to the appropriate department, agency, or response organization; takes messages for Police Department personnel.Dispatches public safety emergency units in accordance with established procedures and policies using a computerized dispatch system, including determining priority of emergency and contacting and sending appropriate response unit.Maintains contact with field units, including accounting for location and status of units and maintaining records of field calls; sends back-up units, as necessary, ensuring the safety of field units.Enters, clears, and modifies information into local, state and national computer databases; performs broad record maintenance of all daily dispatch activities and relative statistics.Operates computer, telephone, and radio console and telecommunication equipment simultaneously while performing dispatching activities; tests and inspects equipment as assigned.Logs call data in a written or automated format; monitors calls after initial dispatch to provide additional coordination, support, or information.Enters, updates, and retrieves a variety of records from teletype database, including stolen vehicles and property, vehicle registration information, guns and property, and warranted or missing persons.Accesses Federal, State, and local law enforcement information databases to obtain information regarding outstanding warrants, criminal history, records information, and vehicle data; relays such information to sworn staff.Acts as a liaison to the public and representatives of other agencies for the department; provides initial non-emergency contact with the public and representatives of other agencies for the requesting of police records or related services; provides factual information regarding services, policies, and procedures, which requires a knowledge of legal guidelines, departmental policies and procedures, and the use of tact and discretion, or directs the caller to the proper individual or agency; facilitates language interpretation as necessary.Maintains accurate departmental and law enforcement records and files; researches and compiles information from such files.Attends necessary training, shift briefing sessions, participates in drills, and test scenarios to prepare for unexpected emergencies.Trains new dispatch personnel.Performs other duties as assigned.QualificationsKnowledge of:Functions, principles, and practices of law enforcement agencies.Terminology and procedures used in public safety dispatching.Operation of computer-aided communications equipment, including multiple telephone lines and radio systems.City and County geography, maps, streets, landmarks, and driving directions.Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.Principles and practices of data collection and report preparation.Business arithmetic and basic statistical techniques.Basic principles of record keeping.Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to work.English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.Ability to:Assess and prioritize emergency situations while remaining calm and using sound, independent judgment.Memorize codes, names, street locations, and other information.Read and interpret maps and other pertinent documentation.Interpret, apply and explain policies, procedures, and regulations.Attend to multiple activities simultaneously.Obtain necessary information from individuals in stressful or emergency situations.Compile and summarize information to prepare accurate, clear, and concise reports.Perform technical, detailed, and responsible office support work.Compose correspondence independently or from brief instructions.Organize, maintain, and update office database and records systems.Make accurate arithmetic and statistical computations.Enter and retrieve data from a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy.Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical deadlines.Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software programs.Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and legal guidelines in politically sensitive situations.Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.Supplemental InformationAny combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:High School Diploma or GED. One (1) year of general clerical experience involving public contact.Licenses and CertificationsPossession of a P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher certification.Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid EMD certificate is desirable.Discover the Benefits of Working with the City of Pismo BeachAt the City of Pismo Beach, our employees are our greatest asset. We're proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future.Comprehensive Coverage for You and Your FamilyHealth, Dental & Vision Insurance - High-quality coverage through CalPERS Medical, with options tailored to your needs.City Contributions - Up to $2,500/month toward family coverage.Future-Focused Financial BenefitsDeferred Compensation Plan - Build long-term financial security with tax-advantaged retirement savings.City Contributions - Among the most competitive in the region, providing unmatched contributions based on your applicable MOU or Resolution.Longevity PayWe value long-term service and reward your dedication:2.5% pay increase after 5+ years of service5% pay increase after 10+ yearsLateral sworn law enforcement officers receive credit toward longevityInsurance & Optional BenefitsLife & AD&D Insurance - $50,000 in life insurance plus $100,000 in AD&D coverage, provided by the City.Additional Optional Benefits-Aflac supplemental plansFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care through IGOESupport for You and Your FamilyEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for work-life challenges.Work-Life BalanceGenerous vacation and sick leave13 paid holidays - Includes 11 standard and 2 personal holidaysA workplace culture that values your time, health, and personal well-beingRetirement PlanningParticipation in CalPERS and Social Security ensures a strong foundation for your retirement.Benefit details may vary by position and are defined in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Resolution for each classification.Join us-and enjoy the rewards of a career that gives back.01Do you have a POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Course Certificate?YesNo