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Entry Level Public Safety Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... the POST Entry Level Public Safety Dispatcher Test Battery within the last twelve months and ... received a 42.0 T-Score or higher may use their score for this recruitment. FLSA: Non-Exempt ...

Applicants who have taken the POST Entry Level Public Safety Dispatcher Test Battery within the last twelve months and received a 42.0 T-Score or higher may use their score for this recruitment. FLSA:

NEW HIRE PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER LATERAL INCENTIVE PAY RECEIVE A SIGNING BONUS OF $15,000 DOLLARS ... California POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery Written : Weighted 60% ( Wednesday ...

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Entry Level Public Safety information

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How much do entry level public safety jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level public safety in the United States is $24.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level public safety career options?

Entry level public safety career options include roles such as police officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician (EMT), security guard, and dispatcher. These positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and may require certifications or training programs; some roles also require passing background checks and physical fitness tests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level public safety professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Safety professional, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of safety procedures, and foundational training in emergency response. Familiarity with communication equipment, incident reporting systems, and sometimes certifications such as CPR or first aid are commonly required. Strong observation skills, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure swift and effective responses to emergencies, enhance public trust, and help maintain a safe environment for the community.

What are entry level public safety jobs?

Entry level public safety jobs are positions that focus on protecting the public and maintaining order, often requiring minimal prior experience or training. Common roles include police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and security guards. These positions typically involve responding to emergencies, enforcing laws or regulations, and assisting community members. Most entry level public safety jobs require candidates to pass background checks, physical exams, and complete specific training or certifications. They offer valuable experience for those interested in building a career in public service or law enforcement.

What types of training and ongoing support can I expect as an entry level public safety professional?

As an entry level public safety professional, you can expect comprehensive initial training that covers essential safety protocols, emergency response procedures, and community engagement techniques. Many organizations offer ongoing support through mentorship programs, regular skills refreshers, and opportunities to shadow experienced colleagues. You'll likely participate in team meetings and scenario-based drills to keep your skills sharp and stay updated on new regulations or technologies. Collaboration with other departments, such as fire, EMS, and law enforcement, is common, offering valuable experience and networking for career growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Public Safety vs Entry Level Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectEntry Level Public SafetyEntry Level Emergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CPR certification, possibly basic first aidHigh school diploma, dispatcher certification, CPR certification
Work EnvironmentPublic safety offices, community events, patrol supportEmergency call centers, police/fire dispatch units
Employer & IndustryPolice departments, fire departments, emergency servicesPublic safety agencies, emergency response centers
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Public Safety vs Entry Level Emergency Dispatcher

Entry Level Public Safety roles often involve supporting emergency services and community safety initiatives, while Entry Level Emergency Dispatchers focus specifically on answering emergency calls and coordinating responses. Both roles require similar certifications and work within public safety environments, but dispatchers are primarily based in call centers, whereas public safety roles may include patrol or community engagement tasks.

More about Entry Level Public Safety jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Public Safety jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Public Safety job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Safety jobs?

The most popular types of Public Safety jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Public Safety jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Public Safety jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Safety job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,367 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Public Safety Dispatcher (Entry-Level)

City of San Bruno

San Bruno, CA • On-site

$87K - $118K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Join a department that cares about its Dispatchers and is LOVED by its community
 

Elevate your public safety career as a Dispatcher. Our mission at the San Bruno Police Department is to Ensure Peace, Provide Safety, and Build Community.  We aim to realize this mission by taking good care of the people who work in our organization so that they can take good care of everyone else.  We believe that the key to providing exceptional police services is consistently deploying strong, healthy, well-trained, emotionally intelligent human beings as San Bruno Police Dispatchers.  As such, we have created a healthy, happy, fun working environment, focused on enabling each member of our team to use their employment to pursue the best possible versions of themselves.     

 
City of San Bruno's Excellent Benefits 

  • CalPERS retirement formula 
    Non-Safety: 2.7% @ 55 for classic members or 2% @ 62 for PEPRA members 
  • Annual accruals of vacation days based on years of service, holidays and sick days  
  • Opportunity for bilingual incentive pay up to 2.5% 
  • Medical, dental and vision benefits provided with employee contribution  
  • Life Insurance equal to one year’s annual salary provided at no cost  
  • Long-term disability insurance provided at no cost  
  • Home loan assistance program  
  • Section 125 Flexible Benefit Plan  
  • Tuition reimbursement 

 
The Position 

 
The San Bruno Police Department is recruiting for entry-level Public Safety Dispatchers.  Public Safety Dispatchers are responsible for public safety dispatch and related records management activities. This position operates on a 24-hour, 365 days per year basis, and may be assigned to either a day, swing, or graveyard shift on a regular, rotational basis that includes nights, weekends, and holidays.  Public Safety Dispatchers perform a wide range of duties involving radio, telephone, and computers, applying various procedures and codes. Dispatchers receive and transmit emergency and non-emergency telephone and radio traffic as well as process communication reports, records, and radio logs, while maintaining
a high level of confidentiality.  Dispatchers may also support the Police Department by performing clerical tasks, training, assisting with fingerprinting, and being accountable for financial transactions.  This position is integral in supporting the goals and objectives of the City and Police Department.   

Examples of Duties 

Essential Duties 

  • Receives and transmits emergency
    and non-emergency
    telephone and radio traffic.   
  • Maintains and processes a variety of communications reports, records and radio logs. 
  • Operates a dispatch console, uses Computer Aided Dispatch (C.A.D.) System and other computer programs to process information and records. 
  • Responsible for various Record Management System (RMS) entries, some of these include but are not limited to citations, warrants, subpoenas.  
  • Responsible for accurate and timely entries into the California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System (CLETS), as well as, the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). 
  • Maintains a high level of confidentiality. 
  • Performs collateral duties including a variety of related clerical tasks:
    records entry, assisting in fingerprinting and jail operations, which may include searching prisoners; and is accountable for handling cash, bond, and check transactions.  
  • Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned.  

Typical Qualifications 

The ideal candidate will possess the ability to record and transmit information with speed and accuracy, "multi-task," make quick and sensible decisions, learn from constructive criticism, possess a high commitment to quality service, and participate in a team approach to law enforcement.  In addition, candidates will have a successful track record of the following:  

  • Professional skill or knowledge using computer keyboard; skill or knowledge using radio, telephone, and computers.   
  • Active listening; conveying information and ideas clearly and concisely to individuals or groups in an engaging manner that helps them understand and retain the message.   
  • Placing a high priority on the internal and external customer’s perspective when making decisions and taking action;
    Implementing service practices that meet the customers’ and own organization’s needs.  
  • Maintaining effectiveness when experiencing changes in work responsibilities or environment (e.g., people, processes, structure, or culture); adjusting effectively to change by exploring the benefits, trying new approaches, and collaborating with others to make the change successful.  
  • Ability to analyze and understand information gathered and follow the best course of action. Identifying and understanding problems and opportunities by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information; choosing the best course of action by establishing clear decision criteria, generating and evaluating alternatives, and making timely decisions.  
  • Establishing and sustaining trusting relationships by accurately perceiving and interpreting own and others’ emotions and behavior.  
  • Taking prompt action to accomplish work goals; taking action to achieve results beyond what is required; being proactive.  
  • Accomplishing tasks by considering all areas involved, no matter how detailed; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes and tasks.  
  • Maintaining stable performance while handling stress in a manner that is acceptable to others and to the organization.  

Minimum Qualifications 
 

Must be able to pass an extensive background investigation. 
 
Education 

  • Possession of a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Additional related college course work or degree preferred. 

Experience 

  • At least one (1) year of related work experience requiring alertness and independent judgment, but no previous public safety dispatch experience is required. 

Certificates and Licenses 

  • Must possess and maintain a valid California Driver’s License, Class C with a good driving record. 
  • Typing certificate issued within the last year verifying minimum typing speed of thirty-five (35) net words per minute with a maximum of nine (9) errors. Typing certificate must be submitted with application to be considered.  Online typing certificate permitted with application; formal test will be administered to final candidate. 
  • Completion within the last year of the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery with a preferred minimum
    score of 48 or above;
    or CritiCall Dispatch passing test results within a year of application date. 
  • Certificate must be submitted with application to be considered. 

Supplemental Information 

This is a continuous recruitment, and applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. This recruitment may close at any time without notice. For a full, detailed class specification, click here. 
 
How to Apply 

 
Applications may be submitted online at the City's BambooHR homepage. The City of San Bruno utilizes a merit-based selection system. Such a system is competitive and based on broad outreach efforts and equal opportunity for qualified applicants to take part in a process designed to determine the qualifications, fitness and ability of competitors to perform duties of the vacant position. 


When submitting your application, please “upload” the following: 


1) POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (with a score of 48 or above).  If you have not yet taken the test, upcoming test dates can be found at: http://theacademy.ca.gov/tests; or, CritiCall Dispatch test results. 


2) Typing certificate issued within the last year verifying minimum typing speed of thirty-five (35) net words per minute with a maximum of nine (9) errors. Online typing certificate permitted with application, formal test will be administered to final candidate. 

 
 
What happens next? 

  • We will review your application and all supplemental materials to select the best qualified applicants to continue in the process. Screening will include a review of minimum qualifications, application appraisal rating of education, training and experience and relevance of background qualifications related to the target job as well as supplemental questions if applicable. 
  • Applicants selected to move forward in the process may be asked to participate in any combination of the following (at any phase of the selection process): a written examination, job related exercise, physical test or job simulation, phone interview, in-person or video interview(s), and/or web-based testing. 
  • The final phase of the selection process is the probationary period, which in most cases is one year, depending on your classification. 

Reasonable Accommodations:  

 
The City of San Bruno is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws in its employment actions, decisions, policies and practices. 

 
The City of San Bruno Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the selection process to accommodate disabled applicants. Individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation in the process must inform the Human Resources Department by the final filing date by emailing 
hr@sanbruno.ca.gov. 
 
Recruitment Contact 
Contact phone: 
(650) 616-7055 
Contact email: 
hr@sanbruno.ca.gov