Communications FAQs
What
shifts do 911 operators work?
9-1-1 Operators
work ten hour shifts. Four days three consecutive days off. The
communications center operates 24 hours a day seven days a week
365 days a year including weekends and holidays. 9-1-1 operators
maybe required to work day shift, swing, or graveyard shift.
How are 911 Operators and Public Safety Dispatchers
schedules determined?
Assignments to shifts are
determined at the end of the training and are based on
department staffing needs. After that, employees shift
assignment is determined and based upon the employees
seniority.
What is the minimum qualifications
required for Public Safety 911 operator applicants?
Graduation from High school or GED. Any combination of training,
education, or experience equivalent to good (1-3years)
experience in public contact or customer service experience
which may involve the operation of a multi-line phone system or
radio communications system.
Where do I get an
application?
Apply online for
Public
Safety Dispatcher Lateral or Public Safety 911 Operator.
You can also call the job hotline for additional details at
480-644-3301 or 1-800-884-5480.
How long
does the hiring process take?
The hiring process can
take up to 4 months.
Will I be paid more money if
I have a four year college degree?
No, but a four
year degree or a Masters degree may help when seeking a
promotion or specialized assignment within the department.
If
I have a background check done with another agency will Mesa
Police Department still do a background check?
Yes.
The Mesa Police Department Human Resources Unit will conduct a
thorough investigation on every applicant. Background checks
from other agencies may be obtained and used in the Mesa Police
Department background process.
Will the hiring
process be shorter for applicants with previous law enforcement
or military experience?
Generally no. Previous
experience may help an applicant be more competitive in the
process, but it will not shorten the process.
Does
Mesa Police have residency requirement?
The Mesa
Police Department does not require employees to live within the
city limits.
What area does the Mesa Police
Department patrol?
The Mesa city limits are
approximately 128 square miles.
How long will it
be before I can promote or work a specialized assignment?
After one year of probation as a 911 Operator, employees are
eligible to promote to Public Safety Dispatcher when openings
occur. Other positions vary depending on the position itself.
Does the Police Department pay for continuing
education?
Read more about
tuition reimbursement.
Is there opportunity for advancement?
Yes. 911 Operators are entry level. There are opportunities as
Public Safety Dispatcher, Trainer for each classification, as
well as opportunities as Training Coordinator, Shift Supervisor
or Administrator.
For questions regarding the Hiring or Testing process, e-mail
police.jobs@mesaaz.gov.