Assistant Communications Operator

The City of Visalia Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Communications Operator (Dispatch Trainee). This position requires successful completion of the POST Entry Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery. The tentative date for testing is Tuesday, September 29, 2026. A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 corrected WPM before hire.

The Operations Division consists of the Patrol Bureau and Communications Unit that provide patrol, traffic, commercial, and emergency communications services for the Police Department. The Patrol Bureau operates out of two District Substations, one in each policing district, and the Visalia Emergency Communications Center. In 2025, the Department fielded more than 264,000 police calls for service.

The Assistant Communications Operator shall work under direct supervision of the Communications Supervisor. They will receive and transmit routine and emergency telephone and radio traffic, dispatch and coordinate police, fire and animal control. They will maintain and process a variety of communications paperwork, records, and logs. Perform related responsibilities as required. As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.

The Visalia Police Department is looking for a professional candidate with the ability to answer multi-line phone system, monitor multiple screens and incoming information in various electronic forms, utilize their training to dispatch appropriate personnel and equipment in emergency and non-emergency situations, while focusing on customer service and a desire to serve the community. Upon successful completion of the training period, this position may be flexed up to the Communications Operator level.

• Two (2) years public contact or related dispatch experience involving customer service, telephone contact, problem solving, and/or clerical duties. Prior experience working in a law enforcement communications center is desirable.
• Possession of a high school diploma or GED

• Completion of Reserve Communications Operator program or possession of POST Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate is desirable.
• Type a minimum of 40 corrected wpm.

Applications and supplemental materials will be evaluated and applicants who appear to be more qualified in terms of experience and training will be invited to a job related written exam and appraisal interview. Prior to appointment, candidates must pass a thorough background investigation, polygraph test, psychological examination and post-offer medical exam. A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 WPM before hire.

An informational meeting will be held on August 27, 2026, at 5:30 pm at the Visalia Convention Center located at 303

E. Acequia. The written exam is tentatively scheduled for September 29, 2026.

Monthly Salary: $4,863-$6,113

• CalPERS retirement program
• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Longevity Pay
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Onsite City Health and Wellness Clinic (no out of pocket expenses)
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave and much more

Review the Benefits tab for more information.

If work-life balance is important to you, consider living in a thriving community that offers the most affordable housing in California with a typical commute time of less than 20 minutes. With a population of over 146,000, Visalia offers small town charm with metropolitan amenities. Visalia has a world class health care system, our own Sequoia Symphony Orchestra, a flourishing arts community, a minor league baseball team, a downtown convention center, and numerous fine dining establishments.

As the Tulare County seat, Visalia is the principal retail center in the region, and home to several large industrial employers. Visalia has a vibrant downtown district, safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, institutions for higher learning, and low cost of living. The City has many community parks, organized team sports, a municipal golf course and private country club, a multi-sport family-oriented regional sports park, and numerous outdoor and recreational activities.

Located in the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley, Visalia offers easy access to the nearby mountains, national parks, lakes and rivers which provide year-round opportunities for sports and recreation within an hour or less. Visalia was ranked as the top Central Valley community and one of seven California cities in the top 25 of Gallup Sharecare's latest State of American Well Being Index.

Our strong sense of community and social well-being keeps Visalians happy, healthy and moving forward. Come discover all Visalia has to offer!

The City of Visalia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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