Communications

The Redwood City Communications Center is the primary public safety answering point for all 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for police services in all incorporated areas of Redwood City.  The 9-1-1 center currently handles approximately 115,000 phone calls and processes more than 80,000 calls for service annually.

Police dispatchers are on duty in the 9-1-1 center 24 hours a day, every day of the year. All the Redwood City police dispatchers are certified by the State of California and have extensive experience in handling police emergencies.  Requests for service are quickly classified and dispatched to the police officers in the field or referred to the appropriate agencies or City departments. Communications dispatchers proudly serve as the lifeline and the link between the community and the police officers who respond to calls for service. 

The Redwood City Police Department accepts applications for Police Dispatchers throughout the year. Dispatching is a challenging, fast-paced, and highly rewarding career that plays a critical role in public safety.

The hiring process consists of an application review, panel interview, and interview with the Chief of Police. Candidates who successfully advance through the selection process must also complete a comprehensive background investigation, which includes questionnaires, reference checks, a home visit, a psychological evaluation, a polygraph examination, and a medical examination.

Once hired, new dispatchers participate in an extensive training program designed to prepare them for the demands of the position. Training typically takes approximately 8 to 12 months to complete before a dispatcher is qualified to work independently. Throughout this process, trainees develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to effectively serve the community and support first responders during emergencies.

Please click here to visit our recruiting website for more information on how to become a police dispatcher.