Are there any classes I can take to prepare myself for this job?
- SCR911 offers a "Citizen's Academy for 9-1-1" twice a year. More information is available on our web site.
- South Bay Public Safety Training Consortium provides a one (1) day "Preparing for a Public Safety Career" class and a three (3) week basic dispatch course open to agencies and non-affiliated students. More information is available on South Bay's web site. Download a copy of the handout from the one (1) day class on preparing.
How can I prepare for the test?
Preparation is limited. Experience shows us the highest scoring applicants have good typing/keyboarding skills.
What might disqualify me as an applicant?
A felony conviction or drug use can disqualify an applicant as well as dishonesty.
What kind of work schedule do you work?
Dispatchers work a variety of shifts and hours. There are ten (10) and twelve (12) hour shifts. While in training you will work the same shift as your CTO.
How long do you train?
How long you train depends on how quickly you learn. Training takes approximately six (6) months.
How long does it take to learn the computer program CAD?
Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) is taught in the academy. Basic commands will be learned in five (5) weeks.
