Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from City of San Mateo
Job overview
The Dispatcher position at City of San Mateo involves coordinating emergency responses and supporting law enforcement to ensure community safety, suitable for entry and experienced candidates.
Responsibilities and impact
Dispatchers will manage emergency communications, operate computer aided dispatch systems, handle radio and telephone communications, and work various shifts to support public safety operations.
Compensation and benefits
The job offers benefits outlined in the Police Unit Memorandum of Understanding and Non-Safety Benefits documents, with specific compensation details available through provided links.
Experience and skills
Applicants should have at least a high school diploma and some telephone or dispatch experience is preferred; entry-level candidates must pass the P.O.S.T. or CritiCall exam and obtain a P.O.S.T. Dispatcher Certificate during employment.
Career development
Entry-level employees can obtain required certifications during employment, indicating opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the department.
Work environment and culture
The role involves working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment requiring calmness under pressure and teamwork, with shifts organized into two teams covering all hours.
Company information
City of San Mateo is a municipal government entity focused on public safety and community services, employing dispatchers as critical links between the public and law enforcement.
Team overview
Dispatchers work in teams with assigned shifts covering day, swing, and night schedules, supporting coordinated emergency response efforts.
Job location and travel
The position is based in San Mateo with shift work including days, evenings, nights, and every other Wednesday.
Application process
Applicants must submit verification of passing the P.O.S.T. or CritiCall exam with their application and can register for these exams online; the recruitment is continuous with candidates added to an employment list upon meeting qualifications.
Unique job features
This role offers the unique opportunity to impact community safety directly and develop specialized skills in emergency communication and dispatch technology.
Company overview
The City of San Mateo is a municipal government entity located in the San Francisco Bay Area, responsible for providing a wide range of public services to its residents, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development. It generates revenue primarily through local taxes, fees, and state or federal funding, which are used to support city operations and projects. Established in 1894, the city has a rich history of growth and development, evolving from a small settlement to a vibrant urban community. Key initiatives often focus on sustainable development, enhancing public spaces, and improving transportation infrastructure to meet the needs of its diverse population.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your ability to communicate clearly and concisely, multitask effectively, and stay calm under pressure, as these are critical skills for a Dispatcher at City of San Mateo.
Emphasize any telephone or dispatch experience, familiarity with computer-aided dispatch systems, radio communications, and knowledge of emergency response protocols to align with the job description.
Apply through multiple channels including the City of San Mateo official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed for this continuous recruitment role.
Connect with current City of San Mateo dispatchers or public safety personnel on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like complimenting their dedication to community safety or asking about their experience working with the CAD system to initiate conversations.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords such as 'dispatch,' 'emergency response,' 'computer-aided dispatch system,' 'radio communications,' 'multitasking,' and 'public safety,' ensuring your resume passes automated screening.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate application submissions, tailor your resume for ATS, identify multiple application portals, and find LinkedIn connections to network with, so you can focus more on preparing for interviews and skill development.
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