Des Moines Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Center Specialist 2

Des Moines Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Center Specialist 2

Salary

$53,851.20 - $81,806.40 Annually

Location

Johnston - 50131 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03509

Agency

595 Iowa Department of Public Safety

Opening Date

06/29/2026

Closing Date

7/29/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Chad Roberts (croberts@dps.state.ia.us)

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Be the Lifeline: Join the Iowa Department of Public Safety as a Dispatcher/ Communications Center Specialist

Do you thrive under pressure, communicate clearly, and have a commitment to public service? The State of Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking detail-oriented, highly dependable individuals to serve as Dispatchers/ Communications Center Specialists, acting as the critical link between emergency calls and first responders. Whether you're beginning your career in public safety or bringing prior experience to the table, we offer an opportunity to make a real difference every single day.

About the Role

As a Communications Center Specialist, you'll be at the center of emergency operations-handling public safety and criminal justice information via phone, two-way radio, and digital systems. Your decisions directly impact the safety of law enforcement and the public, and your calm demeanor and quick thinking will help preserve lives and property across the state of Iowa.

What You'll Do

In addition to the core duties, you'll:

• Elicit critical information from private citizens and partner agencies, ensuring that accurate data is relayed to the appropriate law enforcement or emergency personnel.
• Monitor, identify, and report issues with the computerized switching system and coordinate timely repairs.
• Receive and enter road condition reports and towed vehicle updates into the statewide computer system.
• Operate two-way radios, telephones, and law enforcement data systems to support real-time communication with police, fire, and medical services.
• Retrieve and relay confidential records from the IOWA System, NCIC, and NLETS to authorized officials.
• Maintain ongoing contact with investigative officers to ensure situational awareness and officer safety during potentially dangerous interactions.

About the Department

The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa.

DPS includes six divisions:

• Iowa State Patrol
• Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation
• Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement
• Iowa State Fire Marshal
• Division of Intelligence
• Administrative Services Division

What We're Looking For

We're searching for individuals who demonstrate:

• Clear, calm, and professional communication under stress
• Strong attention to detail and critical thinking skills
• The ability to work flexible, irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
• A strong sense of integrity, discretion, and teamwork
• Familiarity with Iowa geography or the ability to learn it quickly
• Commitment to public safety and the mission of DPS

Minimum Qualifications

Communications Center Specialist 1:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must pass a thorough background investigation.
• Must pass a physical and psychological evaluation provided by the Department of Public Safety (includes vision corrected to 20/20, normal hearing with minimal loss, and normal speech).

Candidates are encouraged to also apply to Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Center Specialist 1 (26-03508). Candidates will only be considered for the individual requisition(s) that they have applied for. The decision to apply for Law Enforcement Dispatcher/Communications Center Specialist 1 (26-03508) will not affect whether or not a candidate is considered for this requisition.

Communications Center Specialist 2:

• Two years of full-time experience in a public safety communications role; OR
• Equivalent education/experience (30 semester hours in law enforcement = 1 year of experience, max 2 years substitution); OR
• One year of full-time experience as a Communications Center Specialist 1 within the State of Iowa.

Why Join Us?

As a State of Iowa Executive Branch agency, the Department of Public Safety offers a supportive, mission-driven work environment and comprehensive benefits, including:

• Health, dental, and life insurance
• Nine paid holidays, plus generous paid vacation and sick leave starting on your first day
• Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) defined benefit program
• Professional development opportunities, including paid training, certifications, and conferences
• Employee discounts through various vendors
• A collaborative and positive workplace culture where your work truly matters

Additional Information

• Applicants are encouraged to attach a resume and cover letter to their online application.
• The selection process may include phone or in-person interviews and could take up to 120 days.
• Applicants are welcome to explore additional employment opportunities within DPS.

Apply Today!

If you're ready to be the voice behind the response-the calm in the chaos-we invite you to apply and join our dedicated team of public safety professionals.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center;

OR

any equivalent combination of education and experience on the basis of one year of full-time experience equals 30 semester hours of college level course work in law enforcement or a related field with a maximum substitution of two years;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to 12 months of full-time work as a Communications Center Specialist 1 shall be considered qualified.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Additional Qualification Requirements

Ability to pass a thorough background investigation by the Division of Criminal Investigation.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?

Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

How many years of experience do you have of full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center?

• I do not have any experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center
• Less than two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center
• Two years or more of full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center

04

How many years do you have of a combination of of college level course work in law enforcement or a related field AND/OR experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, or radio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center? 30 semester hours of college level course work in law enforcement or a related field equals one year of experience,

• I do not have any of the combined education and/or experience
• Less than two years of the combined education and/or experience
• Two years or more of the combined education and/or experience

05

Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many months of experience do you have in the classification of Communications Center Specialist 1 for the State of Iowa?

• I am not a current State of Iowa employee
• I do not have any experience in the classification of Communications Center 1 for the State of Iowa
• Less than 12 months of experience in the classification of Communications Center 1 for the State of Iowa
• Twelve months or more of experience in the classification of Communications Center 1 for the State of Iowa

06

This position requires working any shift - days, nights, and/or midnight shift, some overtime, emergency duty, working weekends/holidays and some travel. Being prompt is essential to the efficient functioning of the team. Is this an acceptable condition of employment?

• Yes
• No

07

This position requires a detailed background check, psych evaluation. Do you believe you will be able to pass a Level 1 Background Check? (Level 1 background check involves: examination of prior behavior as it pertains, but is not limited to; criminal history, driving behavior, tax and overall financial history, and county and state records. A neighborhood canvas, in-home interview, and speaking with many listed and non-listed references and prior employers.)

• Yes
• No

08

What do you feel are the most important requirements to be a communications specialist/dispatcher? Pick 3

• Teamwork
• Emotional/Stress Management
• Self-Initiative/Self-Starter
• Organizational Skills
• Dependable/Reliable
• Problem Solving
• Adaptability
• Data Entry/Typing skills
• Communication Skills
• Compassion/Empathy
• Multitasking
• Prioritization

09

Approximately how many WPM are you able to type?

• 0-30 wpm
• 31-45 wpm
• 46-55 wpm
• 56-70 wpm
• 71-85 wpm
• 85+ wpm

10

Do you know 10 code or shorthand?

• Yes
• No

11

Do you have experience with telephone communication/multi line phone?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have experience with working in a fast pace, multi-tasking environment? (i.e. type or document information while talking on phone and listening to radio)

• Yes
• No

13

Do you have experience with using multi applications simultaneously? (ie: multiple Microsoft suite programs)

• Yes
• No

14

Do you have experience with working proficiently by yourself (individually)?

• Yes
• No

15

Do you have experience with working proficiently as a part of a team?

• Yes
• No

16

Do you have experience with navigating difficult situations?

• Yes
• No

17

In your past roles, have you stayed with one organization for 3 or more years?

• Yes
• No

18

Describe a situation where you felt you had not communicated well. How did you correct the situation?

19

What have you done in past situations to contribute toward a teamwork environment?

20

What kind of events cause you stress on the job?

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 595 Iowa Department of Public Safety Address 215 E 7th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website https://dps.iowa.gov/