Public Safety Dispatcher I/II
: Job Details :

Salary : $67,895.88 - $91,094.16 AnnuallyLocation : Rohnert Park, CAJob Type: Full-TimeJob Number: PSD Oct 2024Department: Public Safety DepartmentOpening Date: 10/21/2024FLSA: Non-ExemptThe PositionRP DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY MISSION STATEMENT:Dedicated to working collaboratively with the community to maintain trust and safety by providing professional services with compassion and integrityThe city of Rohnert Park is seeking to fill one (1) Full-Time Public Safety Dispatcher I/II. This recruitment will create and eligibility list for current and future vacancies.Ideal candidates will possess:

• High ethical standards
• Be committed to providing excellent, friendly customer service
• Be a team player and
• Have technical and computer skills.

Entry level applicants who have completed the POST Dispatcher Basic course are desirable.We are also currently accepting applications for Lateral Dispatchers. To be considered as a lateral applicant, you must:

• Have a minimum of two years of dispatching experience within the last three years with a public agency.
• Have successfully completed your Communications Training Program in your current agency.
• Possess a California P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate.

Hired Lateral Dispatchers will receive a $20,000 Recruitment and Retention Bonus as follows:

• $5,000 upon completion of communications training program
• $5,000 upon completion of probationary period
• $10,000 upon completion of three years of service

Additional Paid Leave Incentives for New Lateral Public Safety Dispatchers as follows:

• Initial annual leave bank of 40 hours on date of hire
• Initial annual accruals based on date of hire with prior agency for length of service.

• If you possess an Intermediate Dispatcher POST Certification, you will receive a 2.5 % Stipend, or if you possess an Advanced Dispatcher POST Certification, you will receive a 5.0% Stipend.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please complete an online application and the required supplemental questions - go to , and click on Job Opportunities. It is important to complete all the required application materials. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to interview. Work history must include all employment for the last ten years and electronically attach relevant certificates, i.e. POST Dispatcher Basic Course.PLEASE NOTE:You may submit a resume or other relevant documents to further describe your qualifications; however see resume will NOT meet the requirements of a complete application, including employment history, or be accepted in lieu of responses to supplemental questions. Be advised that your resume and other attachments not specifically requested by the City in order to apply for this position may not be used to determine your qualifications.If you need assistance applying online, please click on the Application Help/FAQ's link: DEFINITIONUnder general supervision, receives law enforcement, fire, medical, and other emergency calls and dispatches public safety units and other City resources following prescribed procedures; answers non-emergency calls for public safety and other City departments; performs a variety of general administrative support duties for the Department of Public Safety including record keeping, typing, and filing; and performs related work as required.SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISEDReceives general supervision from the Public Safety Communications Supervisor. Functional direction is provided by a Public Safety Sergeant or other management personnel in the absence of the supervisor. Exercises no supervision of staff.CLASS CHARACTERISTICSThis is a non-sworn public safety class series that performs the full range of receiving and dispatching emergency calls for the Department of Public Safety. Responsibilities are centered on extensive contact with the public over the telephone, in both emergency and non-emergency situations to receive, transmit, and provide factual information, forms, and reports. All activities must be performed within specified legal guidelines.Public Safety Dispatcher I: This is the entry-level classification in the Public Safety Dispatcher series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic experience learn City systems, operations, practices, and procedures. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence. Assignments may vary with the skill and training of the incumbent. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.Public Safety Dispatcher II: This is the journey-level classification in the Public Safety Dispatcher series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Work is normally reviewed upon completion and for overall results.Positions in the Public Safety Dispatcher class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience, which meet the qualifications for, and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class. This class is distinguished from the Public Safety Communications Supervisor in that the latter is the full supervisory-level class in the series responsible for organizing, assigning, supervising, and reviewing the work of staff on an assigned shift involved in police and fire dispatch services.Ideal Candidate Examples of TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)Management reserves the rights 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 law enforcement, fire, medical, and other emergency calls, and related business calls for the City during an assigned portion of the 24-hours-per-day/7-days-per-week Department of Public Safety operations; provides information and/or transfers calls to the appropriate department, agency, or response organization.
• 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.
• Operates computer, telephone, and radio console and telecommunication equipment simultaneously while performing dispatching activities; tests and inspects equipment as assigned.
• Monitors security cameras in the Public Safety building and the area surrounding the building.
• 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; determines the nature of the contact; 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.
• 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.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

In performing the duties described above, the incumbent is expected to:

• Provide outstanding and friendly customer service.
• Create and maintain a respectful and collaborative working environment.
• Communicate honestly and behave in a manner that is ethical, legal and fiscally responsible.
• Demonstrate care for the organization, customers, and coworkers.
• Perform work of the highest quality possible.
• Practice and encourage initiative and innovation to improve the workplace.

Qualifications and RequirementsKNOWLEDGE 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.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination.
• Computers and software programs to conduct, compile, and/or generate documentation.

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.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Any 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:Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.Public Safety Dispatcher I: One (1) year of general clerical experience involving public contact.Public Safety Dispatcher II: Two years of dispatching experience with a public agency within the last three years.LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment.
• Possession of a Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Dispatcher certificate within 12 months.

Public Safety Dispatcher II:

• Possession of, P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher certificate.

Additional Information PHYSICAL DEMANDSMust possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, and over the telephone and radio equipment. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 25 pounds and to wear a headset for long periods of time.ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTSEmployees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. WORKING CONDITIONSMust be available to work holidays, weekends, and off-hours shifts including, but not limited to, 12-hour shifts on a regular basis; may be required to work extended shifts in relief or emergency situations. Incumbents are exposed to difficult situations and work under a great deal of stress.CALPERS RETIREMENT: Per the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act (PEPRA), effective 1/1/13, new CalPERS members will be in the Misc. 2% at Age 62 retirement formula with a 3-year final compensation. Employees pay the member's contribution.The City does not participate in Social Security nor State of California Short-Term Disability Insurance (SDI). Medicare Taxes are withheld. MEDICAL INSURANCE: Employees may select from Kaiser, REMIF, or Sutter health plans. The City contributes a set credit amount based on coverage level. DENTAL & VISION INSURANCE: City provides Delta Dental and VSP (vision) insurance at no premium cost to employee and eligible dependents.HOLIDAYS: 14.5 paid holidays per year. ANNUAL LEAVE PROGRAM: New employees accrue 13.167 hours per month of personal time off according to a schedule which increases with length of service.ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: City-paid $50,000 life insurance policy, Short-Term Disability Insurance, LTD Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Education and Tuition Reimbursement Program, Dependent Care Assistance Program, Health Care Tax Free Dollar Account Program, Computer Purchase Program, Catastrophic Leave Program, and free use of the City's Sports Center and lap swim in City's swimming pools. Employees may purchase supplemental life insurance, participate in a deferred compensation program and join a credit union. In addition, the City is a non-smoking workplace.EMPLOYEE UNIT: This position is in the Rohnert Park Public Safety Officers' Association (RPPSOA) Unit.For further details about the benefits offered, please for MOA01 Do you possess a high school diploma or GED?

• Yes
• No

02 Are you currently working as a dispatcher (or have you previously) at another agency? If yes, what agency? Please provide the date you last worked and your total years of dispatching experience. 03 Briefly explain any dispatch experience you possess. 04 Briefly explain any call taking experience you possess. 05 Are you able to type accurately at a speed of not less than 35 net words per minute? *Please note a skills test for keyboarding proficiency at 35 wpm will be part of the selection process.

• Yes
• No

06 Have you successfully completed the POST Basic Dispatcher Course (120 Hours)? If yes, please attach your course certificate of completion to your online application.

• Yes
• No

07 If applicable, are you willing to attend the POST Basic Dispatcher Course in order to meet the POST requirements of a Public Safety Dispatcher?

• Yes
• No

08 Applicants who meet the qualifications will be invited to our CritiCall testing Date TBD. Have you previously taken the CritiCall Entry Level Dispatch aptitude test? If yes, how many times and please indicate the date last taken. 09 Have you taken the POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery within the last 12 months? If yes, how many times and please indicate the date last taken. Please attach the letter you received from the agency where you took the test to your online application. *Please be advised we will not accept T-Scores that are not submitted on agency letterhead. 10 The Department of Public Safety provides services year round, 24/7/365. Are you willing and able to work a variety of shifts, including: 4/10 schedule, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime?

• Yes
• No

11 Have you ever applied for a position with the City of Rohnert Park? If yes, please list the position and date you applied for. 12 Have you ever been employed with the City of Rohnert Park? If yes, please list when and the departments you worked in. 13 Were you referred by a current City of Rohnert Park employee to apply for this position? if so, please type the employee's name below. Please list only one name. If you were not referred by a current City of Rohnert Park employee, please type N/A. *NOTE: This information cannot be added at a later date. 14 Are you currently in background with other agencies? If yes, please list the agencies and your current status in their process. 15 Which of the following best describes your familiarity with street names, building locations and the surrounding areas in Rohnert Park?

• None
• Somewhat Familiar
• Familiar
• Very Familiar

16 Please describe your experience with heavy public contact working directly with a high volume of customers/clients and your experience handling several tasks simultaneously requiring multi-tasking and prioritizing. In your response, please include the name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience, job title, and dates of employment. 17 Please describe your experience working with individuals who are emotionally distraught, confrontational or otherwise strained. In your response, please describe your approach to ensuring clear and effective communications with such individuals and addressing their concerns/issues successfully. 18 Are you willing to undergo a thorough background investigation which may include a review of criminal, employment, educational, driving, and credit records, and an inquiry into your personal and social history, including any use of drugs and alcohol?

• Yes
• No

19 The purpose of a pre-employment background investigation, for all intents and purposes, is to verify that the application you have submitted and any statements you have made to the City of Rohnert Park concerning your qualifications are true. The California Courts have held that an employer has a legal duty to know the persons whom it employs. In some cases, California law may mandate a background investigation before employment, while in other cases it is merely a case of public policy or prudence before placing someone in a position of public trust. Both State and Federal Courts have also held that there is an absolute necessity for public employees to be truthful. You must understand that a lack of truthfulness or deception of any type on your part will automatically and irrevocably result in your application being rejected from further consideration. For some people, there may be one or more incidents or occurrences in their background which they regret or over which they may feel some embarrassment. A prospective employer will not make inquiries into areas of a person's background which have no legitimate bearing on their qualifications for the job. However, you should understand that the mere presence of so-called negative information in your background is not automatically disqualifying. For example, an applicant may have engaged in petty thievery as a child, have used illegal drugs, may have been fired from a job, or even have been convicted of a crime as an adult. While these things, in and of themselves, may not automatically remove that person from consideration for a job, lying about them will.I have read and understand the information above.

• Yes
• No

20 A pre-employment background investigation is not intended to be an intimidating experience or an unwarranted invasion into your privacy. Your background investigator will contact persons who know you, including present and/or former employers, and will examine official documents and records concerning you to assure that you have been honest in your application in order to fulfill the legal mandates imposed by the Courts and the Legislature. The more forthright you have been, the greater the likelihood that your background investigation can be completed in a timely and successful manner.ADVISEMENT TO APPLICANT I understand that any false statements and/or deliberate misrepresentations, whether by omission or commission, will result in my application being automatically and irrevocably rejected from further consideration. I certify that I have read the above statement, understand its contents, and may print a copy for my records.My typed name below indicates my understanding of the above advisement. 21 INSTRUCTIONS: Carefully read and answer each question. If you answer YES to any question, you MUST write a complete and thorough explanation as a response to question #32. Reference your answer to the corresponding question number. All written responses must be answered completely, accurately, truthfully, and thoroughly. Provide date, locations, amounts, etc. Vague, ambiguous, misleading, or unanswered responses may be cause for disqualification from further consideration. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), do not list any medical related information or history about yourself on this questionnaire or any attached pages. Those employed with the Public Safety Department must be able to read, interpret, comprehend, and complete police reports, forms, and other documents accurately and in a timely manner. For this reason, in addition to evaluating your moral character and suitability, we will evaluate your ability to complete this questionnaire accurately. Your ability to write clear statements, which accurately describe an occurrence, will be evaluated. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Human Resources Department at (707) ###-####.I have read and understand the information above. Please type name below. 22 Have you ever been convicted of a crime, been arrested, detained, or questioned by any law enforcement agency?

• Yes
• No

23 Have you ever had a restraining order issued against you?

• Yes
• No

24 Have you ever stolen anything where if you would have been caught you could have been arrested or faced criminal prosecution?

• Yes
• No

25 Have you ever stolen any money, goods, or services from a place where you worked?

• Yes
• No

26 Have you ever belonged to or associated with a subversive or militant group, criminal street gang, alliance, or organization that advocates racism or hatred toward others because of their way of life, background, culture, or customs?

• Yes
• No

27 Have you ever touched, held, or possessed any illegal drug or substance? Includes prescription medication that is not prescribed to you. (If so, provide type of substance, dates you possessed, and number of times for each illegal substance.)

• Yes
• No

28 Were you discharged from any military branch in any way other than honorable?

• Yes
• No

29 Have you ever been fired or resigned in lieu of being terminated from any employment in the past 10 years?

• Yes
• No

30 In your past 10 years of employment, have you received any disciplinary actions? (Includes suspensions, written reprimands, verbal reprimands, counseling)

• Yes
• No

31 Have you ever been rejected or disqualified by any law enforcement agency for any reason during a hiring process?

• Yes
• No

32 Please use the space below to provide a complete and thorough explanation for any questions to which you answered yes (#22 through #31). Required Question