Lateral Emergency Communications Dispatcher Trainee

These positions are contingent upon final funding approval and may be subject to change.

Do you have experience working in emergency communications?

Full-Time, Regular.

Experienced employees are required to work independently with minimal supervision and may assist in training new employees. Typical schedules for experienced employees are four 10‑hour workdays. The ability to work any shift, on any day of the week, and to work overtime is an essential function of the job. Employees are not required to report to work on their days off.

Employees report to 9911 SE Bush St, Portland, OR 97266. This position cannot be filled in a remote status.

Please check our benefits tab for an overview of benefits for this position.

Lateral employees will start at the entry rate.

This position is eligible for Language Pay Differentiation for qualifying employees.

This classification is represented by Portland Police Association (PPA). To view this labor agreement, please click.

Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland’s online portal. You will need to upload a resume and cover letter as well as provide answers to the Supplemental Questions.

If you are currently working as a 9‑1‑1 call taker and police dispatcher now, or have experience within the last year working in those positions at a 9‑1‑1 center, bring your training, skills, and enthusiasm to the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC). Join our 9‑1‑1 call center and contribute to the community safety of the Portland metro area.

• Classroom learning with hands‑on computer training
• Simulation exercises, study, and practice time
• Assigned experienced coaches to guide you while taking live calls and dispatching responders
• Daily performance feedback to track your progress

Emergency Communications Lateral Police Trainees who successfully complete training will be promoted to Senior Dispatchers. Prior to promotion, trainees must demonstrate proficiency in answering 9‑1‑1 and non‑emergency calls, using the radio and CAD to record requests for emergency services, dispatch responders, and monitor the status of field units.

Respond to 9‑1‑1 and non‑emergency calls, dispatch police, fire, medical, and mental health responders, use the radio and Computer‑Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to record requests, keep track of field unit status, and provide timely, accurate information to callers and agencies.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Be at least 18 years old at time of hire.
• Currently hold, or have held certification in Telecommunications and Emergency Medical Dispatch (or equivalent training to State of Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training) within the last year at a 9‑1‑1 center.
• Ability to type 40 net words per minute with 90% accuracy.
• Ability to pass a background investigation through the Criminal Justice Information Services System.

An Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Employment Opportunity. Veteran Preference. ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations.