Job Details

Overview

The Sonoma County Sheriffu2019s Office seeks experienced communications dispatchers. Starting salary up to $50.47/hour ($105,336/year) with a competitive total compensation package. Multiple Dispatcher positions are available at either the I or II level. If you are interested in different levels, apply to the separate concurrent recruitments for each level. For entry level opportunities, view the Sheriffu2019s 9-1-1 Dispatcher recruitment.

Become a Communications Dispatcher II

Communications Dispatcher IIs support both the public and law enforcement by receiving requests for information and providing pertinent data over the phone and radio. Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring radio frequencies
• Receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls from the public
• Setting priorities among competing incoming events and dispatching appropriately
• Utilizing a computer-aided dispatch system

In our 24/7 environment, Dispatchers must have the flexibility to work all shifts including holidays (day, swing, grave), and overtime is required.

This full, working-level position in the Dispatcher job series is for individuals who have completed a year of law enforcement, emergency dispatch experience with a city, county, state, or federal agency. Possession of a California Commission of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Public Safety Dispatcheru2019s Certificate is highly desired.

The most successful Dispatchers will possess many of the following:

• Significant experience working with the public and people in distress, and the ability to direct distressed callers through emergencies
• The ability to work swiftly, in stressful situations, to manage multiple things happening at once
• Capacity to remain calm, clear, and in control
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, as well as empathy and compassion
• The ability to read maps and provide clear directions
• Proficiency in basic computer programs, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
• The ability to type quickly and accurately

What We Offer

Working at the County of Sonoma offers opportunities for growth, a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of serving the community. Benefits include flexible work arrangements and comprehensive benefits, including:

• Salary Advancement
• Paid Time Off
• County Paid Health Premium Contributions
• Staff Development/Wellness
• Post-Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement
• Retirement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Student Loan Debt Relief

The Sheriff's Office is recruiting to fill multiple 9-1-1 Sheriffu2019s Office Dispatcher positions at both I and II levels. This Communications Dispatcher II employment list may be used to fill future positions as they occur during the active status of the list. Qualified County employees who wish to be considered for future positions should consider applying to this recruitment. The Civil Service title is Communications Dispatcher II.

*Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the SCLEA MOU and our Employee Benefits Directory.

Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience and Education: Any combination of experience, training, and education which would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities. Normally, this includes graduation from high school or GED and one year of dispatch experience in a law enforcement setting comparable to Communications Dispatcher I.

Special requirement: Within one year of employment, the employee must obtain a POST Public Safety Dispatcheru2019s Certificate as a condition of probation.

Special skill requirement: Typing speed of 45 words per minute (corrected).

License: Possession of a valid driveru2019s license may be required depending on assignment. The position advertised does not require a California Driveru2019s License.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge: Sonoma County geography, Sheriffu2019s Office and public safety agencies, applicable rules and procedures, communications equipment, data entry, and standard office practices.

Ability: accurately dispatch and coordinate public safety resources; speak clearly; operate communications equipment and a keyboard; stay calm under pressure; handle inquiries; follow complex instructions; keep records; work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Selection Procedure

Notes:

• Applications and supplemental questions are evaluated throughout the process.
• List all employers and positions held in the last ten years in the work history; add related information beyond ten years if applicable.
• Failure to follow instructions may impact competitiveness.

Please visit Getting a Job with the County of Sonoma for more information on the hiring process, including the application process, examination steps, and department selection.

Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire be completed.

Responses to supplemental questions will be used to assess minimum qualifications. Do not write "See Resume" or "See Application".

The selection procedure will include an Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%). Examinations assess minimum qualifications, coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities related to this position.

PII is redacted from standard application fields to ensure a fair examination process. This screening practice helps promote equity.

Candidates with the most appropriate qualifications will be placed on an employment list and referred to the department for interviews.

Additional Information

Background investigations are thorough and may include verification of work history, education, court records, public records, and past behavior. Polygraphs, drug tests, medical and physical examinations may be required. Honesty during the process is essential. The process can take 3-5 months. Be prepared to participate fully.

You may review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine requirements. Please read the Sheriffu2019s Office Pre-Employment Drug Use Guidelines for more information.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted online at www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org. Paper applications may be submitted in person, by fax (707-###-####), email, or mail. All materials must be received by the stated deadline. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted. Continuous recruitments may close without notice.

The County of Sonoma values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a diverse workforce representative of the communities we serve.

HR Analyst: JL HR Technician: RR