Communications Dispatcher

September 17, 2026

The City of Hanford is continuously accepting applications for the position of Communications Dispatcher in the Police Department. This position receives and prioritizes emergency and non-emergency calls for service requiring law enforcement, fire, medical services, or animal control; to dispatch police or fire units as needed; and to perform data entry.A typing certificate verifying 35 wpm, dated within six (6) months of application submittal must be uploaded with online application (online typing certificates are NOT accepted). Lateral Communications Dispatcher Recruitment Incentives: 1. Signing Bonus: A one-time signing bonus for qualified lateral and/or experienced candidates. Candidates may choose between an immediate payment option (paid in 2 installments) or a deferred payment option. 2. Vacation Accrual: Forty (40) hours credited upon appointment. 3. Referral Stipend: A $1,500 referral stipend will be made available to active, full-time City employees who recruit applicants for full-time vacant positions. Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Receive incoming telephone and radio requests for emergency and routine services. Question emergency callers to elicit complete and accurate information necessary for emergency response; enter information into the computer-aided dispatch system. Determine appropriate emergency response units in accordance with established policies and procedures; promptly and properly alert response units. Maintain current status of all field units; closely monitor any situation presenting a potential danger to the life or safety of field personnel and take immediate action to dispatch assistance as required. Maintain radio contact with field units and enforce proper channel control, discipline, and courtesy; monitor multiple frequencies. Refer non-emergency callers to the appropriate agency or other resource; assist officers in field by contacting other services or agencies as needed. Access automated law enforcement systems, input data and information, and make accurate entries into automate record files in accordance with applicable laws, statutes, and Department of Justice requirements. Run local and nationwide wants, warrants and vehicle checks. Perform matron duties requiring contact with female suspects in custody as required. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service. Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect. Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication. Perform related duties as assigned.Knowledge of: Telephone and radio equipment operation. Functions of law enforcement, fire, medical services and other emergency services. Techniques and terminology used in emergency radio and telephone communications. Principles and practices of basic recordkeeping. Ability to: Operate communication and computer-aided dispatch equipment. Intermittently, review and evaluate documents related to department operations; observe, identify and problem solve office operations and procedures; understand, interpret and explain department policies and procedures; explain operations and problem solve issues for the public and with staff. On a continuous basis, sit at desk for long periods of time; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone; write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less. Communicate clearly and concisely with persons under extreme emotional stress, over the telephone or via radio. Work under pressure in emergency situations. Operate radio, telephone system, computer-aided dispatch system, and records management system. Perform several job tasks effectively under pressure for sustained periods of time. Keep detailed records and prepare reports and correspondence. Hear and understand radio transmissions; speak clearly and concisely via radio, telephone, and in person. Read and interpret conventional and automated maps. Type 35 words per minute on a computer terminal keyboard. Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority. Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software. Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties. Communicate effectively orally and in writing. Relate effectively with people of varied academic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy. Establish and maintain effective, cooperative and collaborative working relationships with others. Work rotating shifts/hours, including nights, holidays and weekends. Experience and Education Any combination of experience and education that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: One year of responsible public safety dispatching experience. Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.Possession of, or ability to obtain, Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate within one year of appointment. Possession of, or ability to obtain, California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System (CLETS) certification.A typing certificate verifying 35 wpm, dated within six (6) months of application submittal must be uploaded with online application (online typing certificates are NOT accepted). Screening will consist of a competitive assessment of relevant education, training, and work experience to be followed by a written examination and/or an interview before an Oral Board to determine the most qualified candidates. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement to an interview, and the decision of the screening committee is final. Those candidates who are determined eligible for appointment to the position will be placed on the City’s Certified Eligibility List. Applicants will receive written notification regarding the results of all phases of the recruitment process up to the establishment of the Eligibility List, if applicable.

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