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Entry Level Clerical Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Clerical information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11

$20

$26

How much do entry level clerical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level clerical in Merced, CA is $20.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level clerical jobs?

Entry level clerical jobs are administrative positions that involve basic office tasks such as filing, data entry, answering phones, and organizing documents. These roles are typically suitable for individuals with little to no prior office experience and often serve as a starting point for careers in administration or office management. Responsibilities may also include scheduling appointments, greeting visitors, and assisting other staff with routine tasks. Strong organizational and communication skills are important for success in these positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level clerical worker, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Entry Level Clerical worker, you typically need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with office software such as Microsoft Office Suite and common office equipment is often required. Effective communication, time management, and a proactive attitude help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for efficiently supporting office operations, ensuring accurate record-keeping, and maintaining smooth administrative workflows.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level clerical employees, and how can they be managed?

Entry level clerical employees often face challenges such as managing a high volume of routine tasks, learning new office technologies, and adapting to detailed organizational procedures. To manage these challenges, it helps to prioritize tasks, maintain organized workspaces, and seek guidance from more experienced coworkers. Many organizations also offer training or onboarding programs to support newcomers in becoming proficient with required software and office equipment, and regular communication with supervisors can help clarify expectations and streamline workflow.

What is the difference between Entry Level Clerical vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectEntry Level ClericalData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative support rolesOffice environments, data management tasks
Employer & Industry UsageAdministrative departments across various industriesData-focused roles in multiple sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Clerical roles typically involve general administrative tasks such as filing, answering phones, and scheduling, while Data Entry Clerks focus specifically on inputting and managing data. Both roles require similar credentials and are found in office settings across industries. The main difference lies in the specific job functions, with clerical roles being broader and data entry roles being specialized in data management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clerical jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Clerical jobs in Merced, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Clerical jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Clerical jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Entry Level Clerical jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Entry Level Clerical job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Clerical job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,769 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Emergency Services Dispatcher Trainee

City of Turlock

Turlock, CA • On-site

$5.8K - $7.1K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Learn to operate the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) and input data into the California Department of Justice CLETS System.

  • Receive and dispatch incoming calls for police and fire services, triage and prioritize calls for service, and dispatch appropriate personnel.

  • Perform clerical duties such as data entry, document processing, warrant processing, and compiling reports for court.


Job description

Position Information/Definition The City of Turlock is accepting applications for the position of Emergency Services Dispatcher Trainee. Under immediate supervision, to learn '911' call taking and dispatch duties for the City of Turlock Police and Fire Departments. This classification is assigned to the Turlock Associated Police Officers bargaining unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime assignments.

Distinguishing Characteristics This is an entry level class in the Emergency Services Dispatcher series. Incumbents will undergo on-the-job training which is expected to take approximately four (4) months. An Emergency Services Dispatcher Trainee will have the opportunity to promote to an Emergency Services Dispatcher I, and upon doing so, will be required to successfully complete a one hundred and twenty (120) hour P.O.S.T

Certified Basic Dispatcher Course. The department will evaluate the progress of the trainee during the first twelve (12) months of employment to determine when standards for promotion have been met. Failure to make continuous progress and/or failure to promote to Emergency Services Dispatcher I at the end of twelve (12) months will result in termination.

The Chief may extend this deadline under extenuating circumstances. Supervision Received and Exercised Immediate supervision is provided by a Public Safety Communications Supervisor. Essential Functions - Include But Are Not Limited To The Following: Operate the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) keeping track of all related events and times Receive and dispatch incoming calls from external and internal customers, Learn to operate the Department of Justice automated files to include national inquires and input, Triage and prioritize calls for service from the public in order to dispatch appropriate personnel; Perform clerical duties assigned to Communications to include but not limited to data entry, document processing, warrant processing; Respond to and screen incoming telephone calls on '911' and miscellaneous phone lines in Communications Dispatch appropriate personnel on calls received for police and fire Supply information to the public as needed Operate the touch screen citywide radio system Patch radio channels on multi agency/department involved incidents Inquire and input data into the California Department of Justice CLETS System Maintain confidentiality of information obtained Compile DVD reports for court on calls for service as requested Testify in court on calls received and handled while on duty Perform a variety of related clerical work in the Communication Center Process criminal warrants for service Abstract and maintain records on warrants served Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Knowledge of: High volume telephone and public contact operations Two-way radio system Basic office equipment Ability to: Read, write, speak and understand English fluently Dispatch emergency service calls expeditiously and correctly Type proficiently Think clearly and quickly in emergency situations Read computer screens and monitor visual changes Multitask Follow oral and written direction Compile information and maintain reports in CAD Reference manuals for accurate input of data into CLETS and NCIC Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work Locate major streets, public places and landmarks in the city limits Receive and remember specific information received Additional Information Experience and Training Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: No previous experience necessary. Training: Be a high school graduate from a United States public or private high school Or Pass the General Education Development Test indicating high school level Or Pass the California High School Proficiency Examination Certificates: Possession of a valid California driver's license (minimum class C) at the time of application, to be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

Typing certificate with a typing speed of thirty-five (35) words per minute net corrected. Completion of a POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery with a T-score of forty-five (45) or higher. Successful completion of the Department of Justice CLETS required workbook (new employees must meet this requirement within six (6) months from date of employment) Additional Information: Physical Conditions: Maintain the following physical abilities: See well enough to read instructions, read fine print, view computer screen, operate vehicle and related equipment; hear well enough to converse on the telephone and in person, assist the public and other staff; use hands and fingers for use of computer keyboard, copy machine, filing, writing, drive vehicles and answer telephone.

Dispatchers work rotating shifts (including day shift, swing shift, cover shift and night shift), weekends and holidays and are subject to callback and overtime assignments. An eligibility list will be established from this recruitment that will be valid for six (6) months. All full-time employees serve an eighteen (18) month probationary period.

Selection Process 1. All applicants must complete a standard City of Turlock application for employment form, supplemental questionnaire and submit the following documentation: Proof of education -this can be a copy of transcripts or any degree. Attach a typing certificate obtained through an agency that can validate the certificate, such as a temporary employment agency, employment center, and school/college.

Note: A self-administered test will not be accepted. 2. You may submit your required certifications using the following options: Attach a scanned copy in the "Add Attachment" option (of the NeoGov online application) or Fax a copy to (209) 668-5529 or Email a copy to agodinez@turlock.ca.us or Hand deliver copies of your attachments to 156 S

Broadway, Suite 235, Turlock, CA on or before the final filing date. Applications will be rejected if they are incomplete or required documentation is not attached. 3.

Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Applications will be rejected if incomplete or if the required typing certificate and the completed supplemental questionnaire are not attached. 4.

Candidates who possess the minimum qualifications and have submitted complete application packets will be invited to compete in the testing process. 5. In the event that a large number of applicants possess the minimum qualifications, applicants who appear to be the most qualified based on their experience and education will be invited to compete in the testing process.

6. Completion of a practical examination (Critical examination) will be conducted, which is graded on a pass/fail basis, in order to further evaluate skills relating to essential job functions. 7.

Candidates invited to compete in an oral examination that receives a score of 70% or more will be placed on an eligibility list. Ranking on the eligibility list is based solely on the results of the oral exam. 8.

Top candidates on the eligibility list will be referred to the Turlock Police Department for a Command Staff interview to determine which applicant(s) are referred for a background investigation. 9. Final appointment to the position of Emergency Services Dispatcher Trainee will be contingent upon passing the following: Background Investigation Interview with Chief Medical examination (including drug/alcohol screening, hearing and vision examinations), and Psychological examination.

Veteran's Preference System The City of Turlock has adopted a veteran's preference system (effective January 1, 2002). The percentage score achieved through entrance (non-promotional) examination which ranks applicants on an eligibility list shall be adjusted to provide: (a) one (1) percentage point added to the final test score for each six (6) months of active service during a time of armed conflict, up to a maximum of five (5) points, and (b) five (5) percentage points added to the final test score for veterans who are disabled as a result of active military service during a time of armed conflict, regardless of length of service. To receive preference points, applicants must provide supporting documentation and proof of honorable discharge.

In no event shall an applicant receive more than a five (5) point adjustment. This request should be made in section #12 of the employment application form. A copy of your DD214 must be attached for this request to be considered.

An Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Turlock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are sincerely interested in receiving applications from qualified minorities, women and the disabled. Qualified applicants receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, political affiliation or belief except where indicated by requirements of the job.

The City of Turlock will make every effort to accommodate applicants that have disabilities that would not allow them to compete in the announced process. Applicants are asked to indicate their request for accommodation in the application form. Medical Examination and Drug/Alcohol Screening The incumbent will be required to take a medical examination including a drug/alcohol screening and be fingerprinted.

Customer Service Policy The City of Turlock is committed to quality service to our customers. Our goal is to create a positive, productive and courteous atmosphere for our employees and customers. Employees are evaluated on the quality of customer service they provide.

BENEFITS Retirement - Qualified candidates who are currently a CalPERS member or have been a CalPERS member within the last six (6) months or are subject to reciprocity with another eligible retirement plan, may be a "classic member" and may be enrolled in the City's 2.7% @ 55 plan. Employee pays employee contribution rate of 9% on a pre-tax basis. Non-classic or "new members" will be enrolled in the 2% @ 62 plan

Generous employer contribution to health plan for employee and family Term Life Insurance at 1-1/2 times annual salary Long Term Disability Insurance Liberal vacation, holiday and leave plans Dispatcher Intermediate P.O.S.T. Certificate - 2.5% of base pay Dispatcher Advanced P.O.S.T. Certificate - 2.5% of base pay Associate's Degree or Equivalent - 2.5% of base pay Bachelor's Degree - Additional 2.5% of base pay Master's Degree - Additional 2.5% of base pay Bilingual Pay - 5% of base pay Liberal annual uniform allowance Tuition reimbursement Interest free computer loan The City does not participate in Social Security; however, there will be a 1.45% tax in salary for Medicare PLEASE NOTE: Information contained herein does not constitute an expressed or implied contract as it is subject to change

Where to Apply City of Turlock Human Relations Department 156 S. Broadway, Suite 235 Turlock, CA 95380-5454 (209) 668-5150 or Visit our website at www.cityofturlock.org to apply. All applications must be returned to the Human Relations Department no later than Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 5 p.m

POSTMARKS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Cell phones are typically incompatible with online application format or browsers. we recommend using a desktop or laptop Computer.

If your are still having technical difficulties, please call NEOGOV at 1-855-524-5627.