City of Paso Robles, CA
Dispatcher
City of Paso Robles, CA, Paso Robles, California, us, 93447
Salary :
$69,650.10 - $88,293.66 Annually
Location :
Paso Robles, CA
Job Type:
Full-time
Job Number:
23/24-07
Department:
Police
Opening Date:
11/02/2023
Closing Date:
Continuous
FLSA:
Non-Exempt
Description
This recruitment is open until filled. To be considered with the next pull of applicants, apply now!
The City of Paso Robles is pleased to announce the recruitment for Dispatcher. Dispatchers are an integral part of the Police Department by acting as a critical link between the community and police and fire units in the field. They help maintain the safety of our community by taking command of situations in a sensitive and straightforward manner while also showing considerable empathy and respect to others. The successful candidate will be able to assess situations accurately, make quick decisions, and use sound judgement. This recruitment is for both experienced dispatchers as well as entry-level candidates looking for an exciting career change.
Interested in learning more about the department and position?
Sign-up for a sit-along
The Community El Paso de Robles, or "The Pass of the Oaks," is located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, in San Luis Obispo County. Paso Robles is surrounded by scenic rolling hills and California's premier wine regions and is only 27 miles from beautiful beaches. This thriving community of over 30,000 actively engaged residents possesses the benefits of a suburban-rural community while retaining a small-town feel. With over 200 wineries nearby and a bustling downtown with a variety of excellent restaurants and specialty retail, Paso Robles is fast becoming one of the most desirable places to live, work, and play.
Paso Robles has a long history of agriculture and hospitality resulting in a strong work ethic and an enjoyable quality of life. Once hailed as the "Almond Capital of the World", Paso Robles is now known for top quality food, wine, beer, distilled spirits, and an annual calendar filled with events that celebrate everything from wine to pioneers to classic cars. Paso Robles has been honored by the national media, including Country Living's "10 Best Small Towns in America"; Travel and Leisure Magazine's "Best Small Towns to Retire to in America"; the Today Show's "Top Summer Destination for 2021"; a New York Times "Must Visit Region"; Sunset Magazine's "Best Travel Spots for 2021"; and Wine Enthusiast Magazine's "Wine Region of the Year".
The City understands the importance of business development and works hard to attract commerce in a diverse array of industries. The economic outlook for Paso Robles continues to be strong. The housing market is robust and offers a wide array of housing choices including new neighborhoods, houses with acreage, infill, and charming Victorian homes, with a median home price of about $634,500. Paso Robles also has excellent schools, both public and private. Approximately half an hour away is the nationally ranked Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, and within the city of Paso Robles is Cuesta College, North County Campus.
The Organization The City was incorporated in 1889 as a general law City that operates under the Council-Manager form of government with a general population of 31,176 as of January 1, 2022. The governing body consists of a five-member City Council and, beginning in 2020, the City is now divided into four voting districts, each district represented by one City Councilmember residing in that district; the Mayor's position remains at-large. The voters also elect one City Treasurer at-large. All six elected positions are non-partisan. The City Manager, appointed by the City Council, is the Chief Executive Officer, and is empowered to appoint all non-elected employees, except for the City Attorney.
The City has a total annual budget of $170 million for fiscal year 2024/2025, and a total of 304.4 FTEs across the departments of: Administrative Services, City Manager's Office, Community Development, Community Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, Public Works, and Utilities.
Typical Duties
Monitors and receives routine and emergency calls for serviceDetermines the nature and priority of a call, the availability and location of patrol units, and dispatches appropriate equipment and personnel within established policies and proceduresMakes accurate entries into the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) computer terminals and collects and enters pertinent information into local data storage systemsCommunicates in a clear, easily understood voice with proper diction under stressful conditionsAccurately secures and records information of reported emergency or problem and the exact locationProvides resource information to field units, stations, other agencies, and the publicReceives information over the radio from numerous police, fire, and public works radio frequenciesMaintains a variety of confidential records, call and incident logs, and prepares reports as directedDisseminates information to field officers regarding wanted persons, property, and warrantsMonitors officers in the field to ensure their physical safetyMaintains departmental security by operating intercoms, locks, and gatesPerforms other related duties as assignedThis position requires rotating shift assignments and is subject to mandatory overtime in accordance with maintaining a fully operational 24-hour facility. It will be required to work a variety of shifts including weekends, holidays, and/or irregular hours.
Employment Standards & Special Requirements
Knowledge of:
The functions of law enforcement, fire, and other emergency servicesModern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software for spreadsheets and word processing, including Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365Pertinent federal, state, and local laws and codesDepartmental rules, policies, and proceduresEnglish language, spelling, grammar, and punctuationAbility to:
Operate a California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS), Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, and Records Management System (RMS)Simultaneously take calls, radio dispatch, prioritize calls for service, manage incidents, units and resources, and log incident details in the computer aided dispatching software during normal and high-volume periodsLearn the geography of the City, including the location of streets, roads, highways, areas, major buildings, and public facilitiesLearn proper radio dispatching techniques, including code languageCalmly and effectively manage emergency situations and assist in directing others in an appropriate course of action during stressful situationsDisplay excellent interpersonal communication and public contact skillsRetain and accurately relay information received from a variety of sourcesWork efficiently and effectively under stress, and exercise sound judgment in emergency situationsAdjust quickly to changing situations and perform several tasks at once while adjusting appropriate prioritization of incoming callsEstablish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in course of workUse clear enunciation, tact, and courtesy while handling irate or distraught individualsEducation and ExperienceAny combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be equivalent to graduation from high school plus two years of related experience working with the public.
Special Requirements:
Possession of a valid California Class C driver license and a satisfactory driving recordAt least 18 years of ageMust successfully complete the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course, and obtain CPR and first aid certifications within 12 months of appointmentSpanish language skills are highly desirable.
Lateral Transfers
Lateral transfers are able to waive the written test requirement and are provided a shorter probationary period upon hire. To be considered a lateral, applicants must meet both of the following requirements:
Current employment as a law enforcement dispatcher; andPossess a California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate**Individuals are eligible to apply for a POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate upon satisfactory completion of both the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course and an agency's probationary period.
Selection Procedure & Application Process
Selection Components:1. Written Exam - POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (PELDSTB)Candidates who receive a score of 48 or above on the PELDSTB may be invited to an interview. The written test may be waived if the candidate meets one of the following conditions:
Has taken the PELDSTB in the last year and scored 48 or higher;
documentation of your test score on agency letterhead must be provided with your application
Is considered a lateral transfer (as described above)2. Interview
This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Applications received by the filing date will be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, and job-related qualifications.
A limited number of persons whose applications clearly demonstrate they most closely meet the requirements may be invited to participate in the selection process, which may be any combination of written, oral, and/or performance exams. All statements made in the application materials are subject to verification. False statements will be cause for disqualification or discharge. Appointment is subject to successfully passing a pre-employment physical, psychological exam, polygraph, background check, and criminal history check. Before starting work, applicants must present documentation of their identity, authorization to work in the United States, and a DMV driving record.
City of Paso Robles participates in E-Verify (more information can be found at ). Following appointment, a probationary period of eighteen (18) months for non-laterals or twelve (12) months for laterals is required as the final phase of the appointment process. The email address you provide on the City application will be the primary means of communication the City will use to contact you regarding your application and this recruitment. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (805) 227-7234, or by email at
All persons employed by the City of Paso Robles are designated as "disaster service workers" as defined in the California Government Code section 3100 and 3101.
The City of Paso Robles provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract.
Photos by @brittanyapp
Vacation:
Accrual of 80 hours per year, increasing with years of service. New hires will be front loaded 40 hours of vacation leave. After 6 months of employment, employees will accrue hours in accordance with the
Sick Leave:
Accrual of 96 hours per year. New hires will be front loaded 48 hours of sick leave. After 6 months of employment, employees will accrue hours in accordance with the
Holidays:
14 per year (paid at 4.31 hours per pay period)
Health Insurance:Medical:
City pays $880.13 per month of employee premium, $1,499.39 per month of premium for employee with one dependent, and $1,947.88 per month of premium for employee with two or more dependents
Employees who opt out of health coverage may be eligible for a payment of $300/month
Dental:
City pays full premium for employee and partial premium for familyVision:
City pays premium for employee and familyRetirement:
CalPERS
Classic Tier 1 members participate in a formula of 2.5% at 55, with the employee paying an 8% member contribution, plus a 2% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%. The highest year is used for final compensation calculation.Classic Tier 2 members participate in a formula of 2% at 60, with the employee paying a 7% member contribution, plus a 3% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%. An average of the 3 highest years is used for final compensation calculation.PEPRA members participate in a formula of 2% at 62, with the employee paying one-half of the normal cost (currently 7.75%) contribution, plus a 3% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10.75%. An average of the 3 highest years is used for final compensation calculation.
Deferred Compensation:
Employee can set aside tax free dollars toward their retirementSocial Security:
Both the City and employee contribute to Social SecurityLife Insurance:
Employee only coverage of $40,000 paid by the City
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
The City pays 100% of the cost of the Employee Assistance Program for the employee and their family
Flexible Spending Account:
Allows you to pay for dependent care and unreimbursed medical expenses on a pre-tax basis
Bilingual Pay:
Spanish verbal skills: $100 per month; Spanish written skills: $25 per month
Uniform Allowance:
$1,000 per year
Certification Pay:
$46.15 per pay period for Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) and CPR certifications OR an additional 2.5% of base pay for Intermediate POST Certificate; additional 1% of base pay for Advanced POST Certificate
Education Reimbursement:
Reimbursement up to $3,000 per fiscal year for educational costs directly related to occupational field or for promotion within City service
Retiree Health Reimbursement
:
Up to $500 per month reimbursement of health premiums for employees who retire from the City with at least 20 years of service until the age of 65
For additional details and information, please see the Paso Robles Police Association (POA) memorandum of understanding located on our website at
01
Please explain why you are interested in working for the City of Paso Robles as a Dispatcher. (Please limit your response to 500 words.)
02
To be considered a lateral transfer, you must meet both of the following conditions. Please check all that apply to you.
Current employment as a law enforcement dispatcherPossession of a California POST Dispatcher Basic CertificateN/A - Not a lateral applicant
03
Do you possess any of the following? Please select all that apply and attach a copy of each to your application.
120 hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic CoursePOST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate (Requires completion of both the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course AND an agency's probationary period before individuals are eligible to apply for the certificate.)POST Public Safety Dispatcher Intermediate CertificatePOST Public Safety Dispatcher Advanced CertificateFirst AidCPRN/A- None Obtained
04
Have you taken the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (PELDSTB) exam with another agency within the last year and scored a 48 or above? If yes, please submit your certified results as an attachment to your application. The document must contain your name, your passing score, the date of the exam, and must be on the testing agency's letterhead.
YesNo
05
Describe your experience and level of proficiency utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Please also include any experience you have with additional computer programs. (Please limit your response to 500 words)
Required Question
$69,650.10 - $88,293.66 Annually
Location :
Paso Robles, CA
Job Type:
Full-time
Job Number:
23/24-07
Department:
Police
Opening Date:
11/02/2023
Closing Date:
Continuous
FLSA:
Non-Exempt
Description
This recruitment is open until filled. To be considered with the next pull of applicants, apply now!
The City of Paso Robles is pleased to announce the recruitment for Dispatcher. Dispatchers are an integral part of the Police Department by acting as a critical link between the community and police and fire units in the field. They help maintain the safety of our community by taking command of situations in a sensitive and straightforward manner while also showing considerable empathy and respect to others. The successful candidate will be able to assess situations accurately, make quick decisions, and use sound judgement. This recruitment is for both experienced dispatchers as well as entry-level candidates looking for an exciting career change.
Interested in learning more about the department and position?
Sign-up for a sit-along
The Community El Paso de Robles, or "The Pass of the Oaks," is located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, in San Luis Obispo County. Paso Robles is surrounded by scenic rolling hills and California's premier wine regions and is only 27 miles from beautiful beaches. This thriving community of over 30,000 actively engaged residents possesses the benefits of a suburban-rural community while retaining a small-town feel. With over 200 wineries nearby and a bustling downtown with a variety of excellent restaurants and specialty retail, Paso Robles is fast becoming one of the most desirable places to live, work, and play.
Paso Robles has a long history of agriculture and hospitality resulting in a strong work ethic and an enjoyable quality of life. Once hailed as the "Almond Capital of the World", Paso Robles is now known for top quality food, wine, beer, distilled spirits, and an annual calendar filled with events that celebrate everything from wine to pioneers to classic cars. Paso Robles has been honored by the national media, including Country Living's "10 Best Small Towns in America"; Travel and Leisure Magazine's "Best Small Towns to Retire to in America"; the Today Show's "Top Summer Destination for 2021"; a New York Times "Must Visit Region"; Sunset Magazine's "Best Travel Spots for 2021"; and Wine Enthusiast Magazine's "Wine Region of the Year".
The City understands the importance of business development and works hard to attract commerce in a diverse array of industries. The economic outlook for Paso Robles continues to be strong. The housing market is robust and offers a wide array of housing choices including new neighborhoods, houses with acreage, infill, and charming Victorian homes, with a median home price of about $634,500. Paso Robles also has excellent schools, both public and private. Approximately half an hour away is the nationally ranked Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, and within the city of Paso Robles is Cuesta College, North County Campus.
The Organization The City was incorporated in 1889 as a general law City that operates under the Council-Manager form of government with a general population of 31,176 as of January 1, 2022. The governing body consists of a five-member City Council and, beginning in 2020, the City is now divided into four voting districts, each district represented by one City Councilmember residing in that district; the Mayor's position remains at-large. The voters also elect one City Treasurer at-large. All six elected positions are non-partisan. The City Manager, appointed by the City Council, is the Chief Executive Officer, and is empowered to appoint all non-elected employees, except for the City Attorney.
The City has a total annual budget of $170 million for fiscal year 2024/2025, and a total of 304.4 FTEs across the departments of: Administrative Services, City Manager's Office, Community Development, Community Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, Public Works, and Utilities.
Typical Duties
Monitors and receives routine and emergency calls for serviceDetermines the nature and priority of a call, the availability and location of patrol units, and dispatches appropriate equipment and personnel within established policies and proceduresMakes accurate entries into the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) computer terminals and collects and enters pertinent information into local data storage systemsCommunicates in a clear, easily understood voice with proper diction under stressful conditionsAccurately secures and records information of reported emergency or problem and the exact locationProvides resource information to field units, stations, other agencies, and the publicReceives information over the radio from numerous police, fire, and public works radio frequenciesMaintains a variety of confidential records, call and incident logs, and prepares reports as directedDisseminates information to field officers regarding wanted persons, property, and warrantsMonitors officers in the field to ensure their physical safetyMaintains departmental security by operating intercoms, locks, and gatesPerforms other related duties as assignedThis position requires rotating shift assignments and is subject to mandatory overtime in accordance with maintaining a fully operational 24-hour facility. It will be required to work a variety of shifts including weekends, holidays, and/or irregular hours.
Employment Standards & Special Requirements
Knowledge of:
The functions of law enforcement, fire, and other emergency servicesModern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software for spreadsheets and word processing, including Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365Pertinent federal, state, and local laws and codesDepartmental rules, policies, and proceduresEnglish language, spelling, grammar, and punctuationAbility to:
Operate a California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS), Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, and Records Management System (RMS)Simultaneously take calls, radio dispatch, prioritize calls for service, manage incidents, units and resources, and log incident details in the computer aided dispatching software during normal and high-volume periodsLearn the geography of the City, including the location of streets, roads, highways, areas, major buildings, and public facilitiesLearn proper radio dispatching techniques, including code languageCalmly and effectively manage emergency situations and assist in directing others in an appropriate course of action during stressful situationsDisplay excellent interpersonal communication and public contact skillsRetain and accurately relay information received from a variety of sourcesWork efficiently and effectively under stress, and exercise sound judgment in emergency situationsAdjust quickly to changing situations and perform several tasks at once while adjusting appropriate prioritization of incoming callsEstablish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in course of workUse clear enunciation, tact, and courtesy while handling irate or distraught individualsEducation and ExperienceAny combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be equivalent to graduation from high school plus two years of related experience working with the public.
Special Requirements:
Possession of a valid California Class C driver license and a satisfactory driving recordAt least 18 years of ageMust successfully complete the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course, and obtain CPR and first aid certifications within 12 months of appointmentSpanish language skills are highly desirable.
Lateral Transfers
Lateral transfers are able to waive the written test requirement and are provided a shorter probationary period upon hire. To be considered a lateral, applicants must meet both of the following requirements:
Current employment as a law enforcement dispatcher; andPossess a California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate**Individuals are eligible to apply for a POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate upon satisfactory completion of both the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course and an agency's probationary period.
Selection Procedure & Application Process
Selection Components:1. Written Exam - POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (PELDSTB)Candidates who receive a score of 48 or above on the PELDSTB may be invited to an interview. The written test may be waived if the candidate meets one of the following conditions:
Has taken the PELDSTB in the last year and scored 48 or higher;
documentation of your test score on agency letterhead must be provided with your application
Is considered a lateral transfer (as described above)2. Interview
This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Applications received by the filing date will be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, and job-related qualifications.
A limited number of persons whose applications clearly demonstrate they most closely meet the requirements may be invited to participate in the selection process, which may be any combination of written, oral, and/or performance exams. All statements made in the application materials are subject to verification. False statements will be cause for disqualification or discharge. Appointment is subject to successfully passing a pre-employment physical, psychological exam, polygraph, background check, and criminal history check. Before starting work, applicants must present documentation of their identity, authorization to work in the United States, and a DMV driving record.
City of Paso Robles participates in E-Verify (more information can be found at ). Following appointment, a probationary period of eighteen (18) months for non-laterals or twelve (12) months for laterals is required as the final phase of the appointment process. The email address you provide on the City application will be the primary means of communication the City will use to contact you regarding your application and this recruitment. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (805) 227-7234, or by email at
All persons employed by the City of Paso Robles are designated as "disaster service workers" as defined in the California Government Code section 3100 and 3101.
The City of Paso Robles provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract.
Photos by @brittanyapp
Vacation:
Accrual of 80 hours per year, increasing with years of service. New hires will be front loaded 40 hours of vacation leave. After 6 months of employment, employees will accrue hours in accordance with the
Sick Leave:
Accrual of 96 hours per year. New hires will be front loaded 48 hours of sick leave. After 6 months of employment, employees will accrue hours in accordance with the
Holidays:
14 per year (paid at 4.31 hours per pay period)
Health Insurance:Medical:
City pays $880.13 per month of employee premium, $1,499.39 per month of premium for employee with one dependent, and $1,947.88 per month of premium for employee with two or more dependents
Employees who opt out of health coverage may be eligible for a payment of $300/month
Dental:
City pays full premium for employee and partial premium for familyVision:
City pays premium for employee and familyRetirement:
CalPERS
Classic Tier 1 members participate in a formula of 2.5% at 55, with the employee paying an 8% member contribution, plus a 2% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%. The highest year is used for final compensation calculation.Classic Tier 2 members participate in a formula of 2% at 60, with the employee paying a 7% member contribution, plus a 3% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10%. An average of the 3 highest years is used for final compensation calculation.PEPRA members participate in a formula of 2% at 62, with the employee paying one-half of the normal cost (currently 7.75%) contribution, plus a 3% cost sharing contribution, for a total of 10.75%. An average of the 3 highest years is used for final compensation calculation.
Deferred Compensation:
Employee can set aside tax free dollars toward their retirementSocial Security:
Both the City and employee contribute to Social SecurityLife Insurance:
Employee only coverage of $40,000 paid by the City
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
The City pays 100% of the cost of the Employee Assistance Program for the employee and their family
Flexible Spending Account:
Allows you to pay for dependent care and unreimbursed medical expenses on a pre-tax basis
Bilingual Pay:
Spanish verbal skills: $100 per month; Spanish written skills: $25 per month
Uniform Allowance:
$1,000 per year
Certification Pay:
$46.15 per pay period for Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) and CPR certifications OR an additional 2.5% of base pay for Intermediate POST Certificate; additional 1% of base pay for Advanced POST Certificate
Education Reimbursement:
Reimbursement up to $3,000 per fiscal year for educational costs directly related to occupational field or for promotion within City service
Retiree Health Reimbursement
:
Up to $500 per month reimbursement of health premiums for employees who retire from the City with at least 20 years of service until the age of 65
For additional details and information, please see the Paso Robles Police Association (POA) memorandum of understanding located on our website at
01
Please explain why you are interested in working for the City of Paso Robles as a Dispatcher. (Please limit your response to 500 words.)
02
To be considered a lateral transfer, you must meet both of the following conditions. Please check all that apply to you.
Current employment as a law enforcement dispatcherPossession of a California POST Dispatcher Basic CertificateN/A - Not a lateral applicant
03
Do you possess any of the following? Please select all that apply and attach a copy of each to your application.
120 hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic CoursePOST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate (Requires completion of both the 120-hour Public Safety Dispatchers' Basic Course AND an agency's probationary period before individuals are eligible to apply for the certificate.)POST Public Safety Dispatcher Intermediate CertificatePOST Public Safety Dispatcher Advanced CertificateFirst AidCPRN/A- None Obtained
04
Have you taken the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (PELDSTB) exam with another agency within the last year and scored a 48 or above? If yes, please submit your certified results as an attachment to your application. The document must contain your name, your passing score, the date of the exam, and must be on the testing agency's letterhead.
YesNo
05
Describe your experience and level of proficiency utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Please also include any experience you have with additional computer programs. (Please limit your response to 500 words)
Required Question