Police Dispatcher I (Trainee)

Salary: $31.37 - $38.13 Hourly
Location : Police, Administration, 100 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-17
Department: Police
Opening Date: 04/22/2026
Closing Date: Continuous


Job Overview
This is the entry-level trainee classification in the Police Dispatcher Series. Employees in this class receive training and experience in handling radio and telephone emergency and non-emergency communications. Employees who successfully complete the 18-month probation will automatically advance to the Police Dispatcher II classification.
This is a continuous recruitment with first review of applications on:

May 26, 2026
The Opportunity : The Police Department is looking for enthusiastic and empathetic individuals, who want to make a direct impact to the community of El Cajon, to join their Communications Center team. The Community : As the sixth largest city in San Diego County, El Cajon is seen as a leader among cities and a wonderful location to live, work and play. El Cajon is a full service City, with first-class police and fire departments. The City offers exceptional defined benefits and retirement plans, wellness programs, and opportunities for professional development. The City staff is professional, knowledgeable, and focused on providing exceptional customer service. Ultimately, El Cajon is a shining example of a local government that provides exceptional municipal service with an innovative mindset. The Recruitment Process : This is a continuous recruitment with first review of applications on May 26, 2026. The most highly qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the examination process which includes a Criticall Exam, tentatively scheduled for the week of June 8, 2026. Successful candidates will be placed on an eligible list for employment consideration for at least six months.

Typical Duties

For the full position description, please visit our website : Police Dispatcher I

Qualification Guidelines
Experience: No mandatory experience needed. Experience providing information and assistance to the public by means of telephone or radio is desirable.
Education : Educational achievement equivalent to graduation from high school. College level coursework in radio communications or law enforcement is desirable.
Special Requirements: Ability to satisfactorily complete the Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified Basic Dispatcher Course (Agency provided course) within twelve months of employment.

Complete 24 hours of POST required continuing professional training biennially.

Additional Information
C andidates selected for this position will be required to pass a thorough background investigation, including a livescan, credit check, medical, and polygraph. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age.
The City of El Cajon offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, and CalPERS retirement.

Please review the ECMEA-MOU for detailed information regarding compensation, benefits, retirement, and more:


If you have any questions, please email
01


In order to better evaluate your background, responses to this supplemental questionnaire are required in addition to your online application. The information you provide will be used to determine your eligibility to continue in the selection process. Resumes in lieu of this questionnaire will not be accepted. All work experience that is described in your response must also be included in the "Work Experience" section of your online application. In addition, copies of certifications, coursework and/or degrees must be attached to this application.I acknowledge receipt of this information.

• Yes
• No

02


Do you possess a high school diploma, GED or high school equivalency certificate?

• Yes
• No

03


Have you completed any college-level coursework in emergency service communications, law enforcement or a closely related field?

• Yes
• No

04


Indicate the number of years of full-time experience you have in assisting the public by means of radio or telephone.

• None
• 1-2 years
• 3-4 years
• More than 4 years

05


Are you willing to work various shifts, including but not limited to, 6:00 AM until 6:30 PM and 6:00 PM until 6:30 AM?

• Yes
• No

06


Are you willing to work holidays and weekends?

• Yes
• No

07


I acknowledge that this position will likely require overtime.

• Yes
• No

08


I acknowledge that I must undergo a polygraph examination, fingerprinting (DOJ/FBI), and thorough background investigation conducted by the Police Department prior to receiving a conditional offer of employment.

• Yes
• No

Required Question