Police Communications Dispatcher - Lateral (Continuous)

ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Oakland is seeking experienced Police Dispatchers to join the Oakland Police Department Communications Division. This continuous recruitment targets professionals who can act promptly, logically, and decisively while maintaining a calm demeanor under stress. Dispatchers play a critical role in public safety, directly impacting the community by analyzing needs, making decisions, and addressing issues efficiently and effectively. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Receive and screen telephone calls and record data - Analyze calls for priority level - Use computer-aided keyboard and data entry equipment to relay emergency information to appropriate units - Receive, transmit, and record data - Run queries in automated warrant information systems - Answer questions from the public - Dispatch from a mobile command center, as requested MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Equivalent to graduation from high school - Experience: Three (3) years of full-time responsible work experience as a Dispatcher in a law enforcement environment, with no break in service greater than 36 months prior to application - Age: Must be 18 years of age or older SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - California POST Certification: Applicants working in California must possess a valid Public Safety Dispatcher's Basic Course Certificate issued by California P.O.S.T. Out-of-state applicants must pass the P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course within one year of appointment. - Background Investigation: Must pass a thorough background investigation, polygraph, criminal and drug history checks, credit history check, and medical/psychological assessment. - Bilingual Skills: A select number of positions require bilingual skills in Cantonese, Mandarin, or Spanish, which will be tested prior to a final offer. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Filing: Online application review against minimum qualifications. 2. Eligible List: Qualified candidates are placed on an unranked eligible list, active for up to two years. 3. Department Interview: Candidates on the eligible list are referred to the department for an interview, weighted at 100% of the selection score. 4. Background and Medical: Final candidates undergo a comprehensive background investigation, polygraph, and post-conditional offer medical and psychological assessments. HOW TO APPLY - Applications are accepted online only at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oaklandca. - Candidates may only apply once every three months. - For technical support, contact GovernmentJobs Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627. - For recruitment-specific questions, contact Sherry Chhom at SChhom@oaklandca.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Full Time Civil Service - FLSA: Non-Exempt - Bargaining Unit: SC1 - Department: Police Department - Location: Oakland, CA - Opening Date: 04/11/2023 - Closing Date: Continuous - Benefits: CalPERS retirement, full premium health, dental, and vision coverage, 12 days sick leave per year, deferred compensation (457(b) and Roth 401(k)), flexible spending account, wellness program, Employee Assistance Program, tuition reimbursement, and life insurance up to $200,000. - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Oakland values workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity.