Communications Dispatcher I
City of Richmond Police Department $6,257.62 – $7,606.18/month | Full-Time | Continuous Recruitment
Be the Calm Voice in Critical Moments
When seconds matter and pressure peaks, dispatchers are the steady presence on the other end of the line. The City of Richmond Police Department is looking for dependable, quick-thinking individuals to join our team as Communications Dispatchers—the first point of contact during emergencies, the source of reassurance for callers, and the link that coordinates police, fire, and public safety response across the city.
This is a high-impact role where your professionalism, composure, and sound judgment make a real difference every single day.
Compensation & Benefits
- $6,257.62 – $7,606.18/month
- City-paid medical, dental, and vision
- Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and administrative leave
- CalPERS retirement
- Life and disability insurance
- Tuition & professional development reimbursement
- Paid parental leave
What You'll Do
- Receive and assess emergency and non-emergency calls
- Dispatch police, fire, and other public safety units
- Provide officers with warrant, registration, and location information
- Operate CAD systems, radios, multi-line phones, and citywide cameras
- Deliver emergency medical instructions when needed
- Maintain accurate logs and reports
- Coordinate mutual aid with partner agencies
Minimum Qualifications
- Typing speed of 30 net WPM (no more than 15 errors)
- Certificate required (issued within past 6 months)
- Must be from a public agency, school/training center, or employment agency (online tests not accepted)
- Ability to complete a POST-certified 120-hour Basic Dispatcher course within one year of hire
- Strong communication skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure
- Sound judgment and the ability to follow instructions
Hiring Standards
- No felony convictions
- No use within the past 3 years of cocaine, hallucinogens, LSD, heroin, methamphetamine, MDMA, or psilocybin
- Must pass a background investigation (criminal history, fingerprinting, polygraph, credit check, and drug history)
- Must qualify for respiratory protective equipment
- COVID-19 vaccination required for hires after October 18, 2021 (unless approved exemption)
Application Process
Submit a completed City of Richmond online application and Supplemental Questionnaire. Attach documentation under one of the following options:
Option 1:
- Typing certificate
- POST Dispatcher Test T-score of 48+ (within past 12 months)
Option 2:
- Current POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate
Applications are reviewed and ranked. Top candidates proceed to background review, polygraph, and medical examination. Qualified applicants are placed on an eligibility list valid for up to 8 months.
Why Richmond?
- Competitive Bay Area pay that recognizes the weight of the role
- Strong retirement system through CalPERS
- Supportive team environment where you're never alone on the line
- A diverse, dynamic community worth serving
Ready to Take the Call?
Make a difference behind the scenes when it matters most. Apply today and start your career in public safety communications.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $91,274.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Dependent health insurance coverage
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
