ASSISTANT COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Assistant Communications Operator (Dispatch Trainee)

The City of Visalia Police Department is accepting applications for the job position of Assistant Communications Operator (Dispatch Trainee). This is a continuous recruitment which requires successful completion of the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery. Tests are given several times a year with the next testing date to be determined.

A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 corrected WPM before hire. Please click here for the recruitment announcement.

The Operations Division consists of the Patrol Bureau and the Communications Unit. The Operations Division provides patrol, traffic, commercial, and vital communication and coordination support for the Department. In 2024, the Department fielded more than 129,000 police calls for service. The Patrol Bureau operates out of two District Substations, one in each policing district. The Communications Unit operates out of the newly constructed Visalia Emergency Communications Center.

The Assistant Communications Operator works under direct supervision of the Communications Supervisor. They will receive and transmit routine and emergency telephone and radio traffic, dispatch and coordinate police, fire and animal control. They will maintain and process a variety of communications paperwork, records, and logs. As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.

The Visalia Police Department is looking for a professional candidate with the ability to answer multi-line phone system, monitor multiple screens and incoming information in various electronic forms, utilize their training to dispatch appropriate personnel and equipment in emergency and non-emergency situations, while focusing on customer service and a desire to serve the community. Upon successful completion of the training period, this position may be flexed up to the Communications Operator level.

Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge, skill, and ability is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skill, and abilities would be : Two (2) years public contact or related dispatch experience involving customer service, telephone contact, problem solving, and / or clerical duties. Prior experience working in a law enforcement communications center is desirable. Possession of a high school diploma or GED. Possession of a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment. Completion of Reserve Communications Operator program or possession of POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate is desirable. Type a minimum of 40 corrected wpm.

Applications and supplemental materials will be evaluated and applicants who appear to be more qualified in terms of experience and training will be invited to a job related written exam and appraisal interview. Prior to appointment, candidates must pass a thorough background investigation, polygraph test, psychological examination, and post-offer medical exam. A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 WPM before hire.

The City of Visalia offers a competitive total compensation package that includes : Monthly Salary : $4,672-$5,874 CalPERS retirement program Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Longevity Pay Tuition Reimbursement Onsite City Health and Wellness Clinic (no out of pocket expenses) Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave and much more Review the Benefits tab for more information. If work-life balance is important to you, consider living in a thriving community that offers the most affordable housing in California with a typical commute time of less than 20 minutes. With a population of over 146,000, Visalia offers small town charm with metropolitan amenities. Visalia has a world class health care system, our own Sequoia Symphony Orchestra, a flourishing arts community, a minor league baseball team, a downtown convention center, and numerous fine dining establishments. As the Tulare County seat, Visalia is the principal retail center in the region, and home to several large industrial employers. Visalia has a vibrant downtown district, safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, institutions for higher learning, and low cost of living. The City has many community parks, organized team sports, a municipal golf course and private country club, a multi-sport family-oriented regional sports park, and numerous outdoor and recreational activities. Located in the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley, Visalia offers easy access to the nearby mountains, national parks, lakes and rivers which provide year-round opportunities for sports and recreation within an hour or less. Visalia was ranked as the top Central Valley community and one of seven California cities in the top 25 of Gallup Sharecare's latest State of American Well Being Index. Our strong sense of community and social well-being keeps Visalians happy, healthy, and moving forward. Come discover all Visalia has to offer! The City of Visalia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.