Temporary Communications Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $5,259.77 - $6,516.02 Monthly
Location : Downey, CA
Job Type: Temporary/Part-Time
Job Number: 26-021
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 08/17/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
ABOUT THE POSITION
The position is located in the Communications Center of the Fire Department. The position is responsible for receiving and responding to calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance through dispatching firefighting or rescue units via the operation of the Computer Assisted Dispatch (CAD) system.
Working Hours: The Downey Fire Communications Center is a 24/7 operation, Interested applicants must be willing to work various assigned shifts, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
This recruitment is to establish an Eligible List for four (4) part-time positions of Regional Fire Communications Operator. An Eligible List is generally in effect for one year, unless exhausted sooner. The established List may also be used for full-time appointments as needed.
Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system; however, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandated CalPERS employer contributions; therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment with the City of Downey.
Part-time hours of work will be scheduled based on operational needs. A Part-Time employee may work up to twenty-four (24) hours per week and may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.

• Receives and responds to requests for emergency services from the public via 911, other public safety agencies and standard telephone systems.
• Using the CAD, maintains status of all equipment, personnel and apparatus as to location and availability, ensuring optimum coverage is achieved throughout the system.
• Operates and monitors multiple radio frequencies and determines the appropriate personnel, apparatus and equipment to be dispatched using complex radio and/or computerized systems.
• Uses proper dispatch terminology when broadcasting calls and speaking to the public.
• Keeps command personnel informed of the status of emergency situations and maintains accurate records and logs of communications activities.
• Learns and maintains familiarity with the locations of streets and buildings through everyday use of computerized and hardbound mapping systems.
• On a daily basis, works closely with local police and fire agencies in the sharing of resources and information regarding multi-agency incidents.
• Monitors and reports problems to radio, phone and computer systems within the center to the appropriate agency in a timely manner.
• Provides pre-arrival emergency medical instructions in accordance with the Department's Emergency Medical Dispatch program.

QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: High School graduation or equivalent.
Experience: One (1) year of experience as a Fire Dispatcher. (Desirable)
OR
One (1) year combined experience in dispatching fire, paramedic, ambulance, law enforcement, and/or military units. (Desirable)
OR
Completion of Public Safety Dispatcher training thorough a P.O.S.T. accredited college or university. (Desirable)
OR
Two (2) full-time years of clerical/administrative support experience requiring extensive public contact either in person or over the phone with some use of independent judgment.
NOTE: Part-Time experience will be evaluated on the basis of its fractional equivalent of a forty (40) hour workweek.
Typing Proficiency: Keyboard at an acceptable speed to effectively perform the essential duties of the position. A desired typing speed for this position is 30 net words per minute. Depending on applicant pool, a lower typing speed may be accepted. A valid typing certification must be provided at time of application. Typing certification must have been issued within 24 months prior to submittal of application.
Knowledge of: Codes, practices and procedures used to transmit information to units in the field and locations of streets and buildings; modern office practices and procedures, including effective customer service techniques and practices and the use of standard office equipment including the operation of a personal computer; correct English usage, spelling, and grammar.
Ability to: Understand complex instructions which are presented orally or in writing; read street maps and quickly find locations; quickly evaluate an emergency situation and develop logical working solutions; keep up with fast pace of incoming calls and transmitted information; successfully perform multi-tasking duties; speak clearly and confidently; gain cooperation and cooperate with others; apply procedures for handling unique problems; exercise good judgment with memory for details; recognize and keep information confidential; be reliable and dependable; read, comprehend, interpret and utilize instructions, manuals and other materials applicable to this area.
Ability to speak Spanish or Asian languages is highly desirable.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
License Requirement: A valid California Class C Drivers License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.
Ability to maintain a current American Red Cross certificate in First Aid/CPR and an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) certification.
Physical Task and Environmental Conditions: The duties and responsibilities of this position are performed in an office environment and involve sitting, standing, and walking for prolonged or intermittent periods of time, and include reaching above and below shoulder level, bending, stooping, and twisting at the waist to perform desk work, file maintenance, and operate general office equipment, including a personal computer with keyboard for prolonged or intermittent periods of time.
The operation of a personal computer requires finger and wrist dexterity and the ability to withstand exposure to vibration, pitch and glare from the computer. Employee must be able to safely lift and carry books, files, and reports weighing up to 25 pounds.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications must be submitted on-line. All applications materials received by the application deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the candidate's preparation for the position. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification.
The acceptance of an employment application depends upon whether or not an applicant has provided adequate information that demonstrates meeting the qualifications for the position as stated above. Please complete the application and supplemental questionnaire thoroughly and completely.
**An applicant mustattacha current and verifiable typing certification (dated within the past twenty-four (24) months. The required documentation must be uploaded and submitted with the on-line employment application. Applications received without the required documentation will be considered incomplete and removed from consideration.
An acceptable typing certificate may be obtained from a local college, adult school, or employment agency. Typing certificates obtained over the Internet WILL NOT be accepted . For more information on obtaining a typing certificate please click
EXAMINATION PROCESS
Those applicants, who most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the examination process which will consist of:
Part I: Qualifying Application Process (Pass/Fail). An employment application, supplemental questionnaire and a typing certification (dated within the past twenty-four (24) months is required). All application materials must be uploaded and submitted with the on-line employment application. All information is subject to verification. Incomplete applications will be removed from consideration. A thorough and complete review of all applications received will be conducted. Those applicants who are assessed as meeting the position qualifications and desired background experience for successful performance in the position of Regional Fire Communications Operator will be invited to continue in the selection process.
Part II: Qualifying Written Examination (Pass/Fail): Applicants successful in Part I listed must have completed the ECOMM (Emergency Communications) written exam within the last 12 months (based on application date). The exam is administered directly by the National Testing Network (NTN). Please note NTN charges a fee to take the exam. Please visit the NTN website to schedule an exam by clicking .
Upon completion of the ECOMM (Emergency Communications) written exam all applicant scores are automatically forwarded to the City of Downey Human Resources Office. An applicant must receive a minimum score on the three sections listed below in order to continue in the selection process:

• Call Taker - 53 or higher
• Recording (Note Taking) - 64 or higher
• Dispatch - 43 or higher

Part III: Appraisal Examination - Oral Interview (weighted 100%): Designed to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position. This examination will be a panel interview and will be conducted by subject matter experts.
Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (562) 904-7292 at least 72 hours in advance.
Candidate(s) who complete selection testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to a conditional offer of employment, a candidate will undergo a comprehensive background check that includes employment reference checks, criminal history check, fingerprinting with the California Department of Justice, a credit review, and a polygraph. A psychological examination and a job-related pre-placement medical examination, including a drug screen will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.
To view the benefit summary for this position please click
The City of Downey is proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for the Downey community by providing excellent service in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner. Our values include Integrity, Commitment, Respect, Teamwork, Engagement, Passion, and Excellence.
01
Which of the following best describes your level of education?

• High School graduate or equivalent
• Some College or Technical/Trade School
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree or higher
• None

02
Which of the following best describes your years of experience as a FIRE Dispatcher?

• None
• Less than six (6) months of experience.
• Six (6) months to a year of experience.
• One (1) to two (2) years of experience.
• Two (2) to three (3) years of experience.
• Three (3) or more years of experience.

03
Please briefly describe the experience selected in question two (2) above. Please include in your answer the name of the agency, dates of employment, and the types of duties performed. If "None" please enter N/A.
04
Which of the following best describes your years of experience in dispatching ambulance service, law enforcement, and/or military units.

• None
• Less than six (6) months of experience.
• Six (6) months to a year.
• One (1) to two (2) years of experience.
• Two (2) or more years of experience.
• Three (3) or more years of experience.

05
Please briefly describe the experience selected in question four (4) above. Please include in your answer the name of the agency, dates of employment, and the types of duties performed. If "None" please enter N/A.
06
Have you completed the "Public Safety Dispatcher Training" through a P.O.S.T. accredited college or university?

• Yes
• No

07
Which of the following best describes your years of full-time clerical experience requiring extensive public contact in person or over the phone, with some use of independent judgment?

• None
• Less than six (6) months of experience.
• Six (6) months to a year of experience.
• One (1) year of experience.
• One (1) to two (2) years of experience.
• Two (2) to three (3) years of experience.
• Three (3) or more years of experience.

08
Are you able to keyboard at a rate of 30 net words per minute or more?

• Yes
• No

09
I have uploaded to my online application a copy of my Typing Certification. (The typing certification must have been issued by an employment agency, a public agency, or a school, within 24 months of submitting application. By selecting "Yes" you are acknowledging that failure to submit the required typing certification may result in disqualification from further consideration.

• Yes
• No