Police Dispatcher

Job Opportunity: Dispatcher/Communications Center SpecialistThis is not a remote position. Be the Lifeline: Join the Iowa Department of Public Safety as a Dispatcher/ Communications Center Specialist. Do you thrive under pressure, communicate clearly, and have a commitment to public service? The State of Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking detail-oriented, highly dependable individuals to serve as Dispatchers/ Communications Center Specialists, acting as the critical link between emergency calls and first responders. Whether you're beginning your career in public safety or bringing prior experience to the table, we offer an opportunity to make a real difference every single day.About the Role: As a Communications Center Specialist, you'll be at the center of emergency operations—handling public safety and criminal justice information via phone, two-way radio, and digital systems. Your decisions directly impact the safety of law enforcement and the public, and your calm demeanor and quick thinking will help preserve lives and property across the state of Iowa.What You'll Do: In addition to the core duties, you'll:Elicit critical information from private citizens and partner agencies, ensuring that accurate data is relayed to the appropriate law enforcement or emergency personnel.Monitor, identify, and report issues with the computerized switching system and coordinate timely repairs.Receive and enter road condition reports and towed vehicle updates into the statewide computer system.Operate two-way radios, telephones, and law enforcement data systems to support real-time communication with police, fire, and medical services.Retrieve and relay confidential records from the IOWA System, NCIC, and NLETS to authorized officials.Maintain ongoing contact with investigative officers to ensure situational awareness and officer safety during potentially dangerous interactions.About the Department: The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa. DPS is comprised of the following divisions:Iowa State PatrolIowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI)Iowa Division of Narcotics EnforcementIowa State Fire MarshalDivision of Professional Development and Support ServicesDivision of Intelligence and Fusion CenterAdministrative Services DivisionWhat We're Looking For: We're searching for individuals who demonstrate:Clear, calm, and professional communication under stressStrong attention to detail and critical thinking skillsThe ability to work flexible, irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidaysA strong sense of integrity, discretion, and teamworkFamiliarity with Iowa geography or the ability to learn it quicklyCommitment to public safety and the mission of DPSMinimum Qualifications:Communications Center Specialist 1: High school diploma or GED. Must pass a thorough background investigation. Must pass a physical and psychological evaluation provided by the Department of Public Safety (includes vision corrected to 20/20, normal hearing with minimal loss, and normal speech).Communications Center Specialist 2: Two years of full-time experience in a public safety communications role; OR equivalent education/experience (30 semester hours in law enforcement = 1 year of experience, max 2 years substitution); OR one year of full-time experience as a Communications Center Specialist 1 within the State of Iowa.Why Join Us? As a State of Iowa Executive Branch agency, the Department of Public Safety offers a supportive, mission-driven work environment and comprehensive benefits, including:Health, dental, and life insuranceNine paid holidays, plus generous paid vacation and sick leave starting on your first dayIowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) defined benefit programProfessional development opportunities, including paid training, certifications, and conferencesEmployee discounts through various vendorsA collaborative and positive workplace culture where your work truly matters