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Police Dispatcher Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AA Inclusion

POLICE DISPATCHER/TRAINEE

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.2K/mo

This is the entry-level class in the Police Dispatcher series. This class is distinguished from the journey by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this ...

AA Inclusion

POLICE DISPATCHER/TRAINEE

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.2K/mo

This is the entry-level class in the Police Dispatcher series. This class is distinguished from the journey by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this ...

AA Inclusion

POLICE DISPATCHER/TRAINEE

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.2K/mo

This is the entry-level class in the Police Dispatcher series. This class is distinguished from the journey by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this ...

AA Inclusion

POLICE DISPATCHER/TRAINEE

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.2K/mo

This is the entry-level class in the Police Dispatcher series. This class is distinguished from the journey by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this ...

City of Montclair

Police Dispatcher

Montclair, CA · On-site

$60K/yr

This is a recruitment for Entry-Level Public Safety Dispatchers and for experienced Public Safety ... Police office practices and procedures and basic radio and telephone communications. Knowledge of ...

City of Montclair, CA

Police Dispatcher

Montclair, CA · On-site

$60K/yr

This is a recruitment for Entry-Level Public Safety Dispatchers and for experienced Public Safety ... Police office practices and procedures and basic radio and telephone communications. Knowledge of ...

City of Orange, CA

$73K - $97K/yr

Orange Police Dept - 1107 N. Batavia, Orange, CA Job Type: Full Time Miscellaneous Job Number ... California POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery T-Score of 48 or higher LATERAL ...

City of Orange

Police Dispatcher

Orange, CA · On-site

$73K - $97K/yr

JOIN THE CITY OF ORANGE POLICE DEPARTMENT AS A POLICE DISPATCHER. The City of Orange is looking for ... POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery T-Score of 48 or higher LATERAL DISPATCHER ...

City of Glendora

Police Dispatcher

Glendora, CA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

T. approved entry level Police Dispatcher basic training course prior to completion of probationary period Candidates must possess and maintain a valid Class C California driver's license and a ...

City of Glendora, CA

Police Dispatcher

Glendora, CA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

T. approved entry level Police Dispatcher basic training course prior to completion of probationary period. Candidates must possess and maintain a valid Class C California driver's license and a ...

City of Fontana, CA

Police Dispatcher I

Fontana, CA · On-site

$5.0K - $6.1K/mo

Police Dispatcher I - This is the entry level class in the Police Dispatcher series. Incumbents learn and perform a variety of duties involved in receiving, prioritizing, and transmitting emergency ...

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Police Dispatcher Entry Level information

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How much do police dispatcher entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for police dispatcher entry level in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Police Dispatcher Entry Level vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Dispatcher Entry LevelPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some agencies may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, police departmentsEmergency call centers, police departments
Employer & Industry UsageLocal police departments, law enforcement agenciesLocal police departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Police Dispatcher Entry Level positions are typically the starting point for careers in law enforcement communication centers. They require basic credentials and involve handling emergency calls in police departments. The main difference from Police Dispatchers is experience level; entry-level roles are for newcomers, while experienced dispatchers may handle more complex situations or supervisory tasks.

What does a police dispatcher entry level do?

A Police Dispatcher Entry Level is responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering information from callers, and dispatching police officers to incidents. They use computer systems to log information, communicate with officers in the field, and coordinate responses to ensure public safety. This role requires strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level police dispatcher?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Police Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, stress management, and problem-solving skills help dispatchers remain calm and efficient under pressure. These competencies are vital for ensuring rapid and accurate emergency response, ultimately supporting public safety and law enforcement operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level police dispatchers, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

Entry-level police dispatchers often face challenges such as handling high-stress situations, managing multiple calls simultaneously, and accurately prioritizing emergency responses. New hires can effectively manage these challenges by developing strong communication skills, practicing active listening, and utilizing the support of experienced team members. Ongoing training, familiarization with dispatch protocols, and maintaining a calm demeanor during critical incidents also help new dispatchers build confidence and resilience in the role.

What cities are hiring for Police Dispatcher Entry Level jobs?

Cities with the most Police Dispatcher Entry Level job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Dispatcher jobs?

The most popular types of Police Dispatcher jobs are:

What states have the most Police Dispatcher Entry Level jobs?

States with the most job openings for Police Dispatcher Entry Level jobs include:

Police Dispatcher Entry Level jobs near you

Police Dispatcher Entry-Level

City of Antioch, CA

Antioch, CA • On-site

$81K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary : $81,024.00 - $103,416.00 Annually
Location : 300 L Street; Antioch, CA
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Job Number: 2700-26/8
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 07/27/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Competitive Monthly Cafeteria Benefit Plan Contribution for Medical Benefits!
Bilingual Incentive Pay, Educational Incentive Pay, POST Certificate Incentive Pay and so much more!
This is a continuous posting and job posting may close at any time. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
The City of Antioch is currently accepting applications for the Police Dispatcher position located within theAntioch Police Department The Police Dispatcher evaluates response necessary as dictated by a given request for service.
BENEFIT INFORMATION
Collective Bargaining Representation: Antioch Police Officers Association (non-sworn) Bargaining Unitand Tentative Agreement| Benefits
  • Benefits: Cafeteria Plan (City of Antioch pays 100% of Kaiser rate, up to family tier) | CalPERS Medical Health Plans | Vision (VSP) | Dental (Delta Dental)
  • Retirement: CalPERS Classic Members 2.7% @ 55, New PEPRA Members 2% @ 62
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Option
  • Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Gym on Premises

PLEASE NOTE:
  • INFORMATION ON CANDIDATE BACKGROUND AND MEDICAL SCREENING INFORMATION MAY BE FOUND ON THE POST PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER CANDIDATE SELECTION STATNDARDS WEBSITE: Public Safety Dispatcher Selection Standards
  • TO BE CONSIDERED A LATERAL APPLICANT, YOU MUST HAVE AT LEAST TWO (2) YEARS OF EMPLOYMENT AS A POLICE DISPATCHER IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
  • THIS RECRUITMENT IS TO ESTABLISH A 12-MONTH ELIGIBILTIY LIST. THIS RECRUITMENT CAN CLOSE AT ANY TIME SO CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY IMMEDIATELY.
  • POST DISPATCHER WRITTEN EXAM IS TBD, ADDITIONAL EXAM INFORMATION MAY BE FOUND VIA THE POST WEBSITE: Public Safety Dispatcher Entry-Level Test Battery Applicant FAQs, AND STUDY GUIDE MAY BE FOUND DIRECTLY ON THE POST WEBSITE: Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Battery Examinee Guide
  • NEW! NTN ONLINE EXAM SCORES ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED, ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON HOW TO TAKE THE NTN ONLINE MAY BE FOUND Public Safety Careers | Firefighter Jobs | Police Officer Jobs | National Testing Network
  • ORAL BOARD INTERVIEWS ARE TBD; THE CITY OF ANTIOCH RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THIS SCHEDULE.

Public Safety Dispatcher WRITTEN TEST INFORMATION
Commission on P.O.S.T. Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery:
The Commission on POST Dispatcher Exam is a standardized test designed to measure the verbal, reasoning, memory, and perceptual abilities necessary for public safety dispatcher work. It is a requirement for candidates seeking employment in this field and is part of the POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery. The exam consists of eleven brief tests that assess various abilities, including the ability to quickly and accurately compare letters and numbers presented orally and in written form, and the ability to shift back and forth between two or more sources of information. The entire test battery takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, including a short break. ThePOST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery Examinee Guide provides information about the test. Because the test measures general abilities, there is no study guide or reading list for the test. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the test formats shown in the Examinee Guide. If you are not accustomed to test-taking in general, or if you tend to get tense in testing situations, you may find it helpful to practice doing activities similar to those described in the Examinee Guide.
NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE NTN SCORES:National Testing Network directly contracts with public safety departments across the country to test candidates for jobs. Once a candidate completes this simple online process, information and test scores will be sent directly to each department. Applicants may submit their NTN scores directly to the City of Antioch via the NTN website EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS Jobs | Find Public Safety Jobs | National Testing Network.
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION
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 for the cities of Antioch and Brentwood, as well as Antioch Animal Control; inputs calls into CAD (computer aided dispatch); 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.
Examples of Duties
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.
  1. Receive, classify, and prioritize all incoming calls to the dispatch center including 9-1-1 calls, emergency, and non-emergency calls received from citizens and allied agencies requesting service or information; operate a variety of public safety communications equipment including 9-1-1 emergency telephone equipment, computer aided dispatch systems, and multi-channel radio system.
  2. Evaluate response necessary as dictated by a given request for service; determine nature, location, and priority of calls; operate computer aided dispatch system to create calls for service within response criteria guidelines; assign and dispatch personnel in accordance with policies and procedures; transfer calls to other appropriate agency in accordance with established procedures; obtain and dispatch other support services as necessary.
  3. Maintain contact with all units on assignment; maintain status and location of field units; monitor multiple radio frequencies; relay emergency and non-emergency information to public safety personnel in the field.
  4. Retrieve 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; relay information to officers in the field.
  5. Operate computer terminals to enter, modify, and retrieve data such as stolen and recovered property, towed and stolen vehicles, missing and unidentified persons, citations, field interviews, driver license and vehicle registration information, and warrants on wanted persons; compose and transmit messages to other agencies.
  6. Enter and remove 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); provide support to officers by gathering information from various computer systems including DMV, CLETS, and the County's system.
  7. Notify and dispatch Antioch and Brentwood Public Works staff, and Antioch Animal Control Officers for after hours call outs.
  8. Monitor the County Warning Systems Computer (CWS).
  9. Implement Amber Alerts and Code 666's.
  10. Monitor the security cameras and security doors inside and surrounding the Antioch Police Department.
  11. Testify in court.
  12. Perform related duties as required.

Typical Qualifications
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 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 of 45 net wpm.
  • 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.
ENTRY LEVEL CANDIDATES:
Education/Training:
  • Graduation from high school or equivalent.
Experience:
  • Some experience in a law enforcement agency in the capacity of public safety Dispatcher (Police, Fire or Emergency Medical Services) that included utilization of a computer aided dispatch system to perform job duties is desirable.
LATERAL CANDIDATES:
Education/Training:
  • Graduation from high school or equivalent, supplemented by successful completion of the basic Dispatcher course.
Experience:
  • Two (2) years of experience in a law enforcement agency in the capacity of public safety Dispatcher that included utilization of a computer aided dispatch system to perform job duties.
License or Certificate:
  • Entry Level Candidates/Employees: Ability to obtain the P.O.S.T. certification in Basic Police Dispatch within 12 months of completing probation.
  • Lateral Candidates/ Employees: Possession of the P.O.S.T. certification in Basic Police Dispatch.
  • All Candidates/Employees: Possession of an appropriate, valid California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record are a condition of hire. A satisfactory driving record is one absent of misdemeanor convictions or multiple infraction convictions. Loss of a driver's license and/or an unsatisfactory driving record may result in employee discipline, up to and including termination.
Criminal Record:
All Police Dispatchers shall not have been convicted of any felony. A misdemeanor conviction may result in applicant disqualification and employee disciplinary action, up to and including termination. A complete background investigation will be conducted prior to hire.
***A TYPING CERTIFICATE IS REQUIRED AND MUST BE ATTACHED AT TIME OF APPLICATION***
TYPING CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENT:
A typing certificate, validated within the last twelve (12) months, must be attached to your on-line application. Certificates indicating a typing speed of at least 45 net words per minute (wpm) will be accepted from a recognized employment agency, business school, or adult school. NO ON-LINE TYPING CERTIFICATES WILL BE ACCEPTED.
The certificate MUST:
1. Indicate it was a 5-minute timed exercise
2. Show the number of errors
3. Show the gross wpm
4. Show the net wpm (calculated by deducting 2 wpm for each error)
Information regarding in-person typing certificates may be found on the East Bay Works website Typing Certification Test | East Bay Works.
The City reserves the right to refuse any certificate and require a re-test. If a valid typing certificate is not submitted at the time of application, your application will be disqualified.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING 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 func

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