For minimum qualifi​cations, click HER​E 

STEP 1:  Apply online at www.phoenix.gov/employment

Complete the required information and submit.

The results of the application and pre-screening process will be sent to your primary email address.

If eligible for the position, you will be contacted via email to move on in the next step of the hiring process. Be sure to check your junk mail folder as well.

Download the Communications Guidelines and Terminology to prepare for the computer simulated test. 

How to Prepare for the Testing Process​

STEP 2:  Computer Simulated Test - CritiCall

CritiCall is computerized simulator software that test the applicant's skills and abilities in data entry and multi-tasking. Applicants will wear headphones and be tested on areas such as:

STEP 3: Panel Interview

Preparing for Your Oral Board​ (PDF)​

STEP 4: Background Process

• Applicants will be required to submit to a urinalysis at some point in the hiring process​     

Communications Operators are in training for the first nine months of employment. Initially, employees will learn to be a call taker which will involve 480 hours of training. The classroom instruction has testing throughout and the requirement for employees to memorize important material directly related to the Police Communications Operator job duties. After the classroom setting, the employee moves into on the job training that could potentially take place on the shift of their trainer. Daily, weekly and monthly performance evaluations will be required during the on the job training.

Communications Operators who successfully complete call taker training will then be required to enter into radio dispatch training. This also entails classroom instruction​ and on the job training, which is approximately 840 hours. This on the job training will require monitored and continuous use of the call taking skills already learned, as well as radio dispatch training. Upon successful completion of the training process, employees will be fully cross-trained in the required two main job functions: as a Call Taker answering 9-1-1 / Crime Stop calls, and as a Radio Dispatcher. Employees are then assigned to a permanent position most likely on 2nd or 3rd shift, with the likelihood of working nights, weekends, and holidays as a solo Police Communications​ Operator.

Salary and Compensation information, click H​ERE.

​Requirements:

• One year of continuous full-time experience as a Police 911 Call Taker and/or Police Radio Dispatcher after completing probation.
  

• Applicants cannot have been separated from a law enforcement agency for more than 12 months at the time of application.

• To apply visit the City of Phoenix Employment page to see if you qualify for the "Police Communications Operator - Lateral" job listing and follow the instructions to submit your application.

• Higher levels of starting pay depending on experience and other factors.
  

Learn more about the Communications Bu​reau.  

Click HERE for FAQ's​.

Download Recruiting Brochure (PDF)