POLICE DISPATCHER

Police Dispatcher

Make a difference in our community as a Police Dispatcher and join our team! With a state-of-the-art facility that includes large windows providing natural light, and ergonomic sit-stand dispatcher consoles which makes the work environment satisfying and fitting our organization’s values.

This is an exciting and rewarding career option! Our Police Dispatchers are first responders who serve as the primary link between the public and Police Officers receiving 911 emergency and non-emergency calls. If you are team-oriented, have a strong work ethic, and exceptional customer service and communication skills – APPLY TODAY!

The City of National City is a full-service, state-governed city serving a vibrant and socioeconomically diverse community. Its diverse population, mild climate, and central location make National City a great place to live, work, play, and do business. The City takes great pride in its rich history, strong bi-national relationships, and deep commitment to its residents, schools, neighborhoods, and thriving business districts.

As San Diego County's second-oldest city, National City is truly at the center of it all. Located within a dynamic bi-national region of more than five million consumers, the City's competitive advantage lies in its central location, robust transportation network, and diverse business industry. National City is just minutes from downtown San Diego, local beaches, San Diego International Airport, the U.S.–Mexico border, San Diego State University, and other colleges and universities.

National City is served by Interstates 5 and 805, as well as State Route 54, providing convenient access for residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the region and into Mexico. Public transit options are readily available through the San Diego Trolley and the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which serve National City seven days a week.

About the Position

Under general supervision, to receive, evaluate, and transmit emergency and routine voice radio messages; dispatches required equipment and personnel in accordance with standard policies and procedures; maintain records; and perform related duties as required.

This position will perform the key responsibilities listed below and/or may perform similar related duties not listed here.

• Monitors radio receiver for all communications concerning police department and mutual aid radio channels.
• Maintains two-way radio communications with emergency cars and other emergency units on assignments.
• Maintains contact with all field personnel.
• Receives emergency and other-type messages, secures and records/logs all information regarding type of emergency or incident, exact location, and other pertinent information.
• Dispatches personnel and equipment according to standard operating procedures.
• Keeps supervisor informed of general activities and emergency calls or situations.
• Maintains accurate records of requests for service and other departmental activities.
• May instruct other personnel in the techniques and use of the department's communication equipment.

Ideal Candidate & Qualifications

Education: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Training and Experience: One (1) year of public contact or clerical experience which demonstrates the ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time and use short-term recall skills. Previous radio communications experience is desirable. Knowledge and Skills in: Correct English usage; general office practices and procedures; customer service techniques. Ability to: Learn the rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, which governs the operation of radio transmitters or receivers; quickly recall from memory short-term information received; work under stress; exercise self-control and good judgment in emergency situations; study and maintain a knowledge of departmental policies and procedures, streets, and City geography; maintain clear and accurate records; follow written and oral instructions; speak clearly and distinctly; type at a speed of at least 40 net words per minute; work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Licenses, Certifications, or Special Requirements: Certification or self-certification of ability to type at a net rate of 35 words per minute is required.

To Apply

The examination process will consist of the following:

• Application: Applications will be accepted on-line only at and all notices will be sent via email. Candidates whose applications indicate the required education and experience most directly related to the position may be invited to continue in the selection process.
• Performance Test: Based upon review of applications received, those applicants who best meet the requirements indicated above will be invited to take the Online CritiCall Test (Pass/Fail). CritiCall is a computer based test that simulates a generic dispatch environment and designed to measure the abilities and skills critical for public safety dispatchers such as multitasking, prioritization, map reading, memory recall, comprehension and data entry. For additional information on the test, please visit CritiCall. The Criticall test may be waived for candidates accepted for lateral consideration. The City of National City Police Dispatcher Criticall Test will be held on the following dates. The dates are provided to assist potential candidates in planning. Eligible candidates will be notified of the test dates prior to the testing window. Testing dates may be subject to change.
• Tentative 2026 Test Window Dates:
• August 3, 2026 - August 9, 2026
• December 7, 2026 - December 13, 2026
• Pre-Background Questionnaire: Based upon successful completion of the Performance Test, those applicants with a passing score will be asked to complete a Pre-Background Questionnaire.
• Oral Board Interview: Candidates passing the Pre-Background Questionnaire will be invited to continue in the selection process, and forwarded to the hiring department for consideration. Successful candidates must undergo a thorough background investigation including fingerprinting, computer voice stress analysis (CVSA), psychological evaluation, and a thorough medical examination. There are certain types of conduct, which will be automatic grounds for disqualification. Please read the information on the Disqualifying Criteria to help you identify some of the common areas of the background investigation process that may cause a delay or prevent you from competing in the selection process. For a list of Disqualifying Criteria, click here.