Public Safety Dispatcher II (Lateral)

The Palo Alto Police Department is committed to providing exceptional public safety services and building community partnerships. We are guided by integrity, accountability, trust, teamwork, a positive attitude, and the professional, impartial treatment of all. Responsibilities Provide police response to emergency and non‑emergency service requests in a coordinated and timely manner. Apprehend and prosecute offenders and/or resolve investigations promptly. Minimize injury and property damage by promoting a safe and orderly flow of pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular traffic. Provide coordinated, responsive, and reliable 9‑1‑1 dispatch services. Receive telephone complaints concerning crimes and police emergencies, and dispatch appropriate police patrol units. Receive telephone information concerning fire and medical emergencies, and dispatch appropriate fire and ambulance units. Receive telephone complaints concerning utilities, public works, and animal control emergencies, and dispatch appropriate units. Operate communication consoles, two‑way radio, telephone, paging, and computers including manual and computer‑aided dispatch systems. Maintain accurate records, databases, maps, diagrams, and written procedures. Operate conventional and automated office machines and equipment. Prepare special reports as required. Assist Lead Communications Dispatchers and Supervisor, Police Services in projects. Role As a Public Safety Dispatcher II (Lateral), you will handle the dispatch of emergency and non‑emergency personnel and equipment for multiple agencies, including police, fire, paramedics, ambulance, utilities, public works, and animal control. You will provide critical information to both the public and user agencies, assess response urgency and type, dispatch personnel, and monitor situations for safety, all under pressure. Desired Qualifications Comprehensive dispatch experience across multiple agencies. Critical thinking and decision‑making skills. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written. Technical proficiency with dispatch systems, databases, and communication equipment. Adaptability and resilience in dynamic environments. Collaboration and teamwork with diverse agencies. Customer service orientation. Problem‑solving abilities. Attention to detail. Commitment to public safety. California P.O.S.T. Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate (desired). Experience with EMD protocols (desired). Experience with CLETS/NCIC databases (desired). National Academy of Emergency Dispatch EMD Certificate (desired). Benefits Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. For details, refer to the official benefits information. Compensation See detailed compensation information for Public Safety Dispatcher II positions. Working Conditions / Physical Requirements Work in an office environment, requiring sustained posture and intense attentiveness for prolonged periods. Selection Process Completion of the CritiCall exam. Completion of the P.O.S.T. Personal History Statement – Public Safety Dispatcher. Oral panel interview(s). Comprehensive police background check. Polygraph test. Psychological test. Medical exam. Equal Opportunity and Disability Accommodation The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages employees to discuss potential accommodations. Additional Notes More than one position may be filled from this posting. #J-18808-Ljbffr City of Palo Alto