Dispatcher - Entry Level

Dispatcher - Entry Level

Salary

$73,191.00 Annually

Location

Elk Grove Police Department, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

082426MD

Department

Police

Division

Police

Opening Date

08/24/2026

Closing Date

9/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description/Special Instructions

The City of Elk Grove is now accepting applications for the position of

DISPATCHER - ENTRY LEVEL

Are you looking for a new and exciting career? The City of Elk Grove Police Department is seeking highly motivated individuals with the ability to multi-task for an opportunity to create a challenging and rewarding career as a Dispatcher. The ideal candidate values our diverse community and is committed to providing quality, efficient services in both routine and emergency situations.

Whats the best part? Prior Dispatch experience is not required for this position, and on-the-job training will be provided! Oh, and did you see those benefits?

Why wait? Join Team Elk Grove Today!

Tentative Recruitment Timeline (subject to change)

Filing Deadline: September 20, 2026, by 11:59pm

Exam Period: September 22 - 28, 2026 (online, please plan accordingly)

Oral Board Interviews: October 12 - 13, 2026 (In Person)

Selection Interviews: October 27 - 28, 2026 (In Person)

The CritiCall assessment is composed of multiple modules, each measuring a key skill required for successful performance as a dispatcher. Candidates are required to meet the established passing standard for each module in order to move forward in the selection process.

Attend an optional In-person Q&A Session to learn more about the Dispatcher position (optional, but highly recommended)

The department will be hosting optional Q&A sessions for all candidates that successfully pass the Criticall test. These in-person sessions are tentatively scheduled for October 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM and October 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM and will be held what location. While attendance is optional, it is strongly encouraged for candidates to attend these sessions to understand what the job entails. These sessions will provide applicants with the opportunity to receive a realistic overview of the position to ensure this is the right job for you. Sessions will only be held on these days and no makeup sessions will be offered.

The City offers a competitive salary and generous benefit package including CalPERS retirement benefits, a deferred compensation match and more. Why work for the City of Elk Grove? Elk Grove Jobs

Community Profile

Elk Grove is a vibrant, family-friendly community of approximately 178,124 people in the Sacramento, California region, located 14 miles south of the State Capital and 60 miles east of the Bay Area. Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city that was incorporated in 2000. Elk Grove has low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks and 28 miles of trails, plentiful dining and shopping options, numerous annual events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year.

Representative Duties

Under general supervision, performs a variety of duties involved in receiving, evaluating, prioritizing, and relaying 9-1-1, emergency, and non-emergency calls for service; inputs calls into computer system; dispatches appropriate units and coordinates response of emergency personnel; operates a variety of telecommunications equipment including radio, telephone, and computer aided dispatch systems; and performs a wide variety of specialized clerical duties involved in the preparation, maintenance, and release of materials related to law enforcement activities.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

Dispatcher - Entry Level: Incumbents of this class receive training in department policies, procedures and specialized computer systems through an on the job training program. Generally, the assigned Dispatch Trainer demonstrates skills/tasks while providing instruction and evaluating the trainee's ability to apply instruction received in a variety of working situations. Typically, the training period will last in excess of six months and may also include classroom instruction. While a background in similar tasks/duties may be helpful to the incumbent, direct experience in a police dispatch related environment is not necessary.

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Receives, classifies, and prioritizes all incoming calls and texts to the dispatch center including 9-1-1 calls, emergency, and non-emergency calls received from citizens and allied agencies requesting service or information; operates a variety of public safety communications equipment including 9-1-1 emergency telephone equipment, computer aided dispatch systems, and multi-channel radio system.
• Evaluates response necessary as dictated by a given request for service; determines nature, location, and priority of calls; operates computer aided dispatch system to create calls for service within response criteria guidelines; assigns and dispatches personnel in accordance with policies and procedures; transfers calls to other appropriate agency in accordance with established procedures; obtains and dispatches other support services as necessary.
• Maintains contact with all units on assignment; maintains status and location of field units; monitors multiple radio frequencies; relays emergency and non-emergency information to public safety personnel in the field.
• Retrieves and interprets information from local, state, and national computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, stolen vehicles, restraining orders, criminal histories, parolees, and other related information; relays information to officers in the field.
• Operates computer terminals to enter, modify, and retrieve data such as stolen and recovered property, towed and stolen vehicles, missing and unidentified persons, citations, , driver license and vehicle registration information, and warrants on wanted persons; composes and transmits messages to other agencies.
• Enters and removes data and information from various local, statewide, and national law enforcement computer systems including the Records Management System (RMS), Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS), and National Crime Information Center (NCIC); provides support to officers by gathering information from various computer systems including DMV, CLETS, and the County's KPF system.
• Monitors public security cameras and alarms for City facilities, parking lots, and related facilities.
• Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:

• Operations, services, and activities of a public safety telecommunications and dispatch center.
• Operational characteristics of modern public safety telecommunications equipment including computer aided dispatch systems and multi-channel radio systems.
• Law enforcement and emergency service procedures for responding to and handling reported incidents.
• Techniques of questioning for both emergency and non-emergency calls.
• Methods and techniques of receiving, prioritizing, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
• Radio codes currently used by the Elk Grove Police Department.
• Functions of the Police Department and other City departments.
• Geographic features and locations within the area served.
• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and computer equipment.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Methods and techniques of telephone etiquette.
• Methods and techniques of conflict resolution.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.

Ability to:

• Respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints.
• Effectively communicate and elicit information from upset and irate callers.
• Speak clearly and concisely in an understandable voice via radio and telephone and in person.
• Hear and distinguish radio voice traffic within normal levels and over background noise.
• Make independent decisions that affect the safety of public safety personnel, citizens, and property such as those involved in determining the urgency of requests received and the appropriate action to take.
• Dispatch police units quickly and effectively.
• Think quickly, calmly, and clearly in emergency situations.
• Perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Operate a variety of telecommunications receiving and transmitting equipment including radio transmitting communication equipment, teletype equipment, and computer equipment.
• Operate specialized public safety computer systems and applications.
• Read and interpret maps and other navigational resources and give directions.
• Type and enter data accurately at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
• Work under pressure, exercise good judgment, and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Interpret, apply, and explain applicable federal, state and local policies, procedures, laws, codes and regulations including police records retention and dissemination policies and procedures.
• Maintain composure, alertness and concentration while working for extended periods of time.
• Compile, maintain, process, and prepare a variety of records and reports.
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the public reporting emergencies and seeking information or filing a report.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education/Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

Experience: One (1) year of work experience involving public contact.

License or Certificate:

• Criticall Test: Must pass online Criticall test with at least 3400 KPH (keystrokes per hour) and an 85% overall score. The test link will be supplied to the applicant during the application process.

Other Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
• Incumbent will need to pass a background investigation which may include a polygraph, psychological and medical evaluation.
• Entry Level Dispatchers must serve an 18-month probationary period.

Retired Annuitants: This is a regular full-time position. Retired Annuitants are not eligible for appointment to this position under Government Code Sections 7522.56, 21224, 21227, and 21229. Retired CalPERS members may apply only if they are planning to voluntarily reinstate from retirement.

Employment Sponsorship:

This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship or any other type of employment-based visa sponsorship.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Environment: Work is performed in an emergency services dispatch center setting with extensive public contact; incumbents are required to work evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts; incumbents may be called back or held over to maintain staffing levels.

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an emergency dispatch center setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; and to verbally communicate to exchange information.

Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction.

Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.

The information listed above is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478-2230. City of Elk Grove participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires.

CITY OF ELK GROVE

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT SUMMARY

Elk Grove Police Officers Association (EGPOA) - Non Sworn

Annual Leave (vacation/sick)

0-4 years of service 176 hours 6.77 hours per pay period

5-9 years of service 216 hours 8.31 hours per pay period

10-14 years of service 232 hours 8.92 per pay period

15-19 years of service 256 hours 9.85 hours per pay period

20+ years of service 272 hours 10.46 hours per pay period

Deferred Compensation

Employee may participate in a 457 deferred compensation plan up to maximum allowed by law.

Deferred Compensation - City Match

The City will match up to 2% or 4% of employees salary depending on the membership status with CalPERS.

Employee Assistance Program

Available to employees and immediate family.

Flexible Spending Account

Covers IRS approved medical and/or approved dependent care expenses to be paid on a pre-tax basis.

• Medical spending up to $3,400 annually.
• Dependent care up to $7,500 annually.
• Adoption Assistance FSA up to $16,810 annually.

Health (Medical) Insurance

The City participates in the CalPERS Health Plan (PEMHCA) and offers a "cafeteria plan," which includes a monthly City contribution that an employee may apply toward premiums for medical insurance.

The Citys Contribution rates for the 2026 plan year are as follows:

Single: up to $1,001.61 per month

2-Party: up to $2,003.22 per month

Family: up to $2,735.14 per month

Employees who show evidence of other group health insurance coverage and waive enrollment in a CalPERS health plan shall receive a taxable in lieu cash fringe allowance of $300 per month.

Dental Insurance

100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the Citys medical plan.

Vision Insurance

100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the Citys medical plan.

Pet Insurance

City employees are eligible to purchase pet insurance at a discounted premium rate through MetLife.

Retirement Health Savings Account

City provided defined contribution program for IRS-eligible medical expenses upon retirement,

Holidays

Employees who are not assigned by the Police Chief to work shifts shall receive eleven (11) paid holidays per year and sixteen (16) hours of floating holiday every fiscal year.

Employees assigned by the Police Chief to work shifts shall receive a 5% holiday pay differential in lieu of paid holidays and eight (8) hours of floating holiday every fiscal year.

Life Insurance

City provides Life insurance at 1X base salary with a minimum of $50,000 and maximum of $300,000. Additional life insurance may be purchased by employee up to a maximum of $500,000.

Military Leave

The City will pay qualified employees any difference between his/her base salary and the amount received in military reserve pay for regularly scheduled annual training that requires the employee to take military leave from his/her regular work week.

Retirement (CalPERS)

Your CalPERS Pension formula will be dependent upon your hire date with the City of Elk Grove and/or your status with any Public Retirement System.

• 2.7% at 55 if hired before 8/12/12.
• 2% at 55 if hired after 8/12/12 and a current Classic member of CalPERS.
• 2% at 62 if hired after 1/1/13 and not a Classic member of CalPERS.

Internal applicants will remain in their current retirement formula unless they are moving from a safety to miscellaneous classification.

Short Term/Long Term Disability

• The City provides Short-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $2,300 per week and Long-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $15,000 per month.
• The City also provides Paid Family Leave coverage @ 60-70% of weekly earnings up to a maximum of $,1,750 per week.

City employees DO NOT contribute to the California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program.

Social Security

City employees do not currently participate in the Social Security program. City offers an IRS qualifying retirement plan.

Tuition Reimbursement

80% up to $2,500/year for undergraduate studies

80% up to $3,500/year for graduate studies

Wellness Program

Amazing on-site Wellness Coordinator and multiple fitness and wellness classes such as yoga and pilates available throughout the week!

01

Applicants must complete the supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening and selection process. The information provided will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, stating "see resume" or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and confirm that your responses can be verified from information included within the application?

• Yes
• No

02

Retired CalPERS members may apply if they are planning to voluntarily reinstate from retirement. Do you understand that this is a regular full-time position, and Retired Annuitants are not eligible for appointment under Government Code Sections 7522.56, 21224, 21227, and 21229?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you require sponsorship for employment in the United States now or in the future (e.g., H-1B or other employment-based visas)?

• Yes, I will require sponsorship.
• No, I do not require sponsorship.

04

Please check your highest level of academic achievement.

• Some High School
• High School Graduate or Equivalent
• Some College
• Associates Degree
• Bachelors Degree or Above

05

Please indicate below the number of years of work experience you have that includes public contact (i.e., customer service or customer-facing positions).

• No Experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 - 2 years
• More than 2 - 3 years
• More than 3 - 4 years
• More than 4 years

06

Regarding question #5, please briefly list your work experience and include: - the position you held and name of company - years you were in that role - brief description of the work you performed

07

This position requires you to pass a comprehensive public safety background investigation which may include a polygraph, psychological and medical evaluation. Are you aware of this requirement?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer City of Elk Grove

Address 8401 Laguna Palms Way

Elk Grove, California, 95758

Phone 916-627-3224

Website https://elkgrove.gov/