Dispatcher II; Lateral

Job Overview

The City of Sacramento is seeking a Dispatcher II (Lateral) in the Police Department. Candidates must have passed the Dispatcher Criti Call Examination and hold relevant experience as a dispatcher in a law‑enforcement agency. The position may be filled by promotion from Dispatcher I or lateral entry.

• Receive emergency and non‑emergency calls, determine priority, and dispatch police, fire, and local government units.
• Maintain radio contact with all assigned units.
• Coordinate with other agencies and relay information.
• Query law‑enforcement databases for wanted persons, criminal history, stolen property, DMV information, etc.
• Enter stolen, stored, or repossessed vehicle data.
• Perform records‑keeping duties for the computer‑aided dispatch system.
• Inspect and test dispatch equipment.
• Testify in court when required.
• Write written responses or reports related to complaints or investigative follow‑ups.
• Prepare daily work progress reports while training new dispatchers.
• Demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, empathy, and excellent customer service in alignment with the department’s policy.

• Pass the Dispatcher Criti Call Examination (result due by 11:59 p.m. January 31 2026).
• Experience as a dispatcher in a law‑enforcement agency; at least 2 years, with a minimum of 6 months within the past 6 months, and successful completion of the California P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Course within 12 months.
• Successful completion of the probationary period as a Dispatcher I with the City of Sacramento.

• English grammar, usage, punctuation.
• Standard radio broadcasting procedures and rules.
• Clear, distinct verbal communication to diverse populations.
• Ability to elicit information from upset citizens.
• Work under pressure and exercise good judgment in emergencies.
• Independent judgment and minimum supervision.
• Proficiency with computer‑aided dispatch, telephone, and radio equipment.
• Typing 40 net words per minute.

• High school diploma or GED plus 12 college units from an accredited institution; or equivalent.
• Alternative: high school diploma/ GED + four years of customer‑service experience.

Lateral‑entry hires must complete a 12‑month probationary period at satisfactory performance before receiving permanent status.

The City of Sacramento is an equal‑opportunity employer and provides an equitable hiring process for all applicants, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercise of family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.