Cedar Rapids Law Enforcement Dispatcher / Communications Center Specialist 2

Salary :

$52,790.40 - $80,204.80 Annually

Location :

Cedar Rapids - 52404 - Linn County, IA

Job Type : Full-time

Job Number : 26-00787

Agency :

595 Iowa Department of Public Safety

Opening Date : 09 / 24 / 2025

Closing Date :

10 / 5 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag : #LI-POST

Point of Contact :

Robert Johannesen at johannes@dps.state.ia.us

To Apply :

Applicants are encouraged to attach a resume and cover letter to their online application.

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 dedicated to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. Guided by the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, 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

The Department works in close coordination with federal, state, and local jurisdictions to ensure the safety of all Iowans and those traveling through our state.

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

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.

Candidates are encouraged to also apply to

Communications Center Specialist

(26-00788).

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 (26-00788) will not affect whether or not a candidate is considered for this requisition.

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

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

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-friendlyGain 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.

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?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. 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, orradio operator in a city, county, state, federal, commercial or industrial communications center?

I do not have any experience as a Communications operator, dispatcher, orradio 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, orradio 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

Required Question