Communications Manager

Job Opportunity

The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Communications Manager in the Police Department. In this role, you will be developing and implementing policies, procedures and operating standards, and the continuous evaluation of the efficiency and maintenance of all communication equipment and systems. The incumbent in this classification is responsible for the overall management of the Communications Center Bureau.

The ideal candidate is a strong and steady leader who can build trust with staff and communicate clearly in a fast-paced environment. They have experience managing or supervising a communications center and understand the challenges of staffing shortages, training, and employee wellness. They are proactive in finding solutions to staffing needs, supporting recruitment and retention efforts, and maintaining service levels during difficult conditions. The ideal candidate is also comfortable leading through change, including the implementation of new technologies and systems, and can help staff adapt through clear communication, training, and support. They are organized, approachable, and able to make sound decisions under pressure while keeping the team focused and supported.

Minimum Qualifications

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is equivalent to graduation from high school and completion of 60 college semester or 90 quarter units in business administration, public administration, criminal justice or a related field; may substitute experience on a year-for-year basis for education; and five (5) years increasingly responsible experience in a public safety communications center, one of which must have been at the supervisory level or administrative capacity and two years of experience directly related to emergency dispatching.

Other requirements include the ability to pass a psychiatric evaluation and P.O.S.T Dispatcher background investigation. Must be willing to work evening, night, weekend and holiday shifts. An Emergency Medical Dispatcher, P.O.S.T. Dispatcher, Civilian Supervisor, Instructor Certificate, or completion of training required for one or more of these certificates is desirable. ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700 and 800 Incident Command system certification is desirable. Must be able to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Berkeley to meet the program needs and to fulfill the job responsibilities. When driving on City business, the incumbent is required to maintain a valid California driver's license as well as a satisfactory driving record.

Application Process

Applications must be received by Monday, June 1, 2026, at 5:00 pm PT and must include a completed application. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application. Applications are available in alternative formats (audio format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc. upon request to View email address on click.appcast.io. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.

Exam Process

The exam process will include, but may not be limited to:

• Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents (qualifying experience will be calculated based on the administrative review date)
• Review of Supplemental Questionnaire
• Assessment Center – Tentatively the Week of July 20th or July 27th
  • Oral Interview Exam (70%)
  • Written Exercise (30%)

Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral, or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing, and analytical skills; problem-solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability, or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews slated for a date to be determined. Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to View email address on click.appcast.io at the time of application.

Pre-Employment Process

Candidates under final consideration for employment with the City will undergo an employment background check that may include, but is not limited to: confirmation of employment history, educational credentials and degrees, certificates, registrations, and licenses including driver's license; credit check; criminal history check; and Live Scan fingerprinting.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer

The City of Berkeley is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans' status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Disaster Service Worker

All City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.