San Mateo Police Department - Per Diem Dispatcher

A Part-Time Per Diem Dispatcher II candidate must: 
1.  Possess a Basic Dispatch Certificate from the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). A copy of your certificate with your application is required in order for you to continue with the process;
3. Have at least two years of full-time experience as a California law enforcement dispatcher; and
4.  Attach a résumé to your application packet. 
Note: Currently Dispatchers work four (4) consecutive twelve (12) hour shifts, followed by four (4) days off, followed by three (3) consecutive twelve (12) hour shifts and followed by three (3) days off. Employees work 12 hours per day and shift work is required. Work schedules will vary, and overtime maybe required.

7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Days
5:00 p.m. - 3:00 a.m. – Swing
9:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. - Graveyard
11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Overlap shift

Dispatchers receive incoming calls for police and fire for a number of local jurisdictions and dispatch necessary units using a computer aided dispatch system, processing and prioritizing incoming calls for emergency assistance. Dispatchers perform a variety of general support duties related to communications activities. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Perform a variety of general support duties related to communication activities.
• Operate Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) equipment and to enter, update, and retrieve information from teletype networks relating to wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration and other information.
• Determine the nature, location, and priority of an emergency; coordinate the response of police, fire, ambulance or other emergency units through CAD data terminals in accordance with established procedures.
Knowledge of:
• English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation
• Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) equipment
• Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment.
• Public safety classification codes and computer commands
Ability to:
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions,
• Speak clearly and precisely
• Work well under pressure,
• Exercise good judgment and make sound decisions in emergency situations
• Assist in training new employees
• Type at a speed necessary for adequate job performance
Note:  Currently Dispatcher's hours are scheduled under the 4-10 work schedule.  Employees work 10 hours per day, four days per week and shift work is required.  Work schedules will vary and overtime maybe required.
ADA Special Requirements Essential duties require the ability to work in a standard office environment with some ability to sit for long periods of time, twist, and reach.