Public Safety Dispatcher - Lateral Only

Position Summary

The City of Oxnard Police Department is seeking an experienced Public Safety Dispatcher to manage emergency and non-emergency dispatch operations. The dispatcher must be capable of multitasking while maintaining composure in high-stress situations and possess strong technical and customer service skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive all 911 calls, determine the nature and location of the emergency, and enter information into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
• Remain on the line with callers in emergency situations until law-enforcement arrives.
• Employ excellent customer-service skills and use calming techniques for upset or hysterical callers.
• Identify incidents that involve criminal activity as defined by California Penal, Vehicle, Welfare and Institutions, and Health and Safety Codes.
• Distinguish multiple simultaneous conversations to gather accurate information.
• Simultaneously receive, key in, and transmit information and field assignments; monitor unit status; coordinate up to 50 units on dynamic incidents.
• Answer non-emergency service calls, determine required assistance, and dispatch appropriate personnel such as tow trucks or public works crews.
• Make immediate decisions and react in a calm, controlled, and effective manner in emergency situations.
• Communicate clearly, concisely, and correctly over radio and telephone.
• Read, interpret complex maps, and develop a working knowledge of Oxnard geography, jurisdictional boundaries, freeways, roadways, and landmarks.
• Research information using computerized databases including Geofile, municipal codes, county ordinances, DMV records, warrants, and other relevant data, and transmit results to field units.
• Type accurately on computer keyboards and operate mouse and foot controls while conversing on radio / telephone.
• Prioritize tasks and perform multiple functions simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
• Provide all pertinent information to officers and emergency personnel and coordinate appropriate levels of response to ensure safety.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Work Environment

The position is performed in a dispatch center. It requires long periods of sitting, extensive keyboarding, operation of a mouse, foot controls, headset use, and wearing a uniform.

Payroll / Classification Title

Public Safety Dispatcher

Supervision

Overall supervision is provided by the Communications Manager; the Dispatch Supervisor offers technical or functional supervision. New dispatchers are trained by senior staff.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is an entry-level class requiring no prior related experience. Incumbents are trained in policies, procedures, and system use by higher-level communications staff. Limited supervisory responsibility may be required in the absence of a supervisor.

Work Schedule

The position has variable hours and may require additional hours to meet workload demands. Overtime pay is available.

Probationary Period

This position requires an 18-month probationary period.

Education

Experience

License / Certificate

Other Requirements

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete online application. Cover letters or resumes submitted instead of a completed application will be considered incomplete. All candidates must pass a thorough background investigation, including polygraph, psychological, and medical testing.

Union Membership

This classification is represented by the Oxnard Peace Officers Association (OPOA).

Equal Opportunity

The City of Oxnard is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants.

Reasonable Accommodation

The City makes reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Applicants requiring accommodations must inform Human Resources in writing no later than the filing date.

Legal Requirements

New employees must provide proof of citizenship or legal right to work in the U.S. on the first day of employment.

Disaster Service Worker

All public employees are required to serve as disaster service workers as specified by California law.

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