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1. I am interested in becoming a dispatcher. Where do I start?

Anyone interested in becoming a dispatcher should schedule a sit along. You will be able to meet the current dispatchers, explore the Communications Center, and see what a typical day in the life of a dispatcher is. You can schedule a sit along by emailing JOINSMPD@cityofsanmateo.org.

In addition, ensure you’ve completed the twelfth grade or it’s equivalency to apply. Lastly, having scores from CritiCall or the POST Dispatcher Test is preferred. Additional requirements are listed in the application.

Take the CritiCall examination for free. Email a recruiter at JOINSMPD@cityofsanmateo.org to receive the virtual link.

2. What skills would your idea candidate possess?

Knowledge of:

• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Standard radio or telephone communications receiving, and transmitting equipment.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and computer equipment.

Ability to:

• Learn standard broadcasting procedures and rules.
• Learn to operate a computer aided dispatch system quickly and accurately.
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions.
• Speak clearly and precisely.
• Work various shifts and work well under pressure.
• Exercise good judgment and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
• Type at a speed necessary for adequate job performance.
• Learn department procedures and policies.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

3. Where do I apply?

If you meet the minimum requirements, visit our Recruiting Page for current job openings. 

4. What are the minimum requirements to apply for Dispatcher I?

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. 

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.
• Must pass the CritiCall exam or POST Dispatcher Test. 
• Must pass a background investigation.
• Must meet all department, medical, physical, and psychological standards.
• Some telephone or dispatch experience is highly desirable.

Take the CritiCall examination for free. Email a recruiter at JOINSMPD@cityofsanmateo.org to receive the virtual link.

5. What are the minimum requirements to apply for Dispatcher II?

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. 

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• One year of public safety dispatch experience comparable to that of a Dispatcher I in the City of San Mateo.
• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.

6. Is being bilingual a plus?

Yes! We also offer a pay incentive for those who qualify.

7. What are the minimum education requirements?

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

8. Do I have to take an examination before applying?

Yes. Submit your scores for the POST Dispatcher Test and/or the CritiCall Exam with your application. Take the CritiCall examination for free. Email a recruiter at JOINSMPD@cityofsanmateo.org to receive the virtual link.

9. Where do I sign up for the POST Dispatcher Test and/or the Criticall Exam?

Take the CritiCall examination for free. Email a recruiter at JOINSMPD@cityofsanmateo.org to receive the virtual link.

Examination dates can also be found in the following links:

• CritiCall Exam
• POST Dispatcher Test

10. What would be the minimum preferred scores for CritiCall Exam and/or the POST Dispatcher Test?

• CritiCall Exam: Pass
• POST Dispatcher Test: 48 or higher

11. Is there a minimum or maximum age to apply?

The minimum age is 18 years of age. There is no maximum age.

12. Do I have to live in San Mateo to apply?

No. If you don’t live in San Mateo, you should consider it. The city of San Mateo is a great place to live, work, and play. We also have a great school system if you are raising children.