Dispatch Recruit Hiring Process

APPLICATION

Applications are submitted electronically through our website.  Be sure to read the directions closely and complete the application completely and accurately.  Any questions about the application should be directed to Human Resources.

CRITICALL Test

Once your application is received you will be invited to take the CritiCall test. The CritiCall test is administered through the City of Sacramento Human Resources Department. CritiCall is a computerized state-sponsored pre-employment test that measures underlying skills and abilities a person needs to possess prior to any training. The test measures the ability to effectively navigate and use a computer, ability to understand written and verbal instruction, memory recall, and other aspects. A test taker does not need to possess any specialized dispatcher/call taker knowledge or training to be able to read, understand, or answer the test items. You may refer to www.thepracticetest.com for a practice test of the CritiCall test. Please note that an Apple MAC computer or laptop may not be compatible with this test. The City of Sacramento Human Resources Department offers an alternative testing site if you do not have a Windows computer or laptop.

PANEL INTERVIEW

The Oral Panel interview is the first time the applicant will meet with a Police Department Representative.  The applicant will spend about thirty minutes answering a series of questions designed to evaluate your suitability for the position. The panel will evaluate the applicant’s ability to communicate, the applicants level of preparation, and decision making. 

2 HOUR SIT-ALONG (optional)

Please visit our Dispatch Sit-Along Program page for additional details on participating in a sit-along.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

After passing the panel interview, the applicant will be given numerous documents to complete to begin the background investigation. This will include the Personal History Statement, which is an extensive collection of past residences, acquaintances, and employment information. The background investigation is a very thorough investigation into the applicant’s past and current conduct, relationships, employment, and criminal activity. An average background investigation can take 3-6 weeks. It is expected that any needed documentation will be provided by the applicant to the investigator within a timely and complete manner. Dishonesty or omission of information is cause for disqualification. 

POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

As part of the background investigation, the applicant will be required to submit to a polygraph examination.  The examination is another tool used to verify an applicant’s truthfulness through the hiring process.

HIRING AUTHORITY INTERVIEW

After the backgrounding process is completed, all successful applicants will be scheduled for an interview with the Hiring Authority for authorization to continue the hiring process. The Hiring Authority makes the final determination on who is selected for a conditional offer.

CONDITIONAL JOB OFFER

After backgrounds are complete and the applicant is deemed qualified, a conditional job offer will be extended. Applicants with a conditional job offer will be sent to a medical doctor for a medical screening and a psychological exam prior to employment.  

MEDICAL EXAM

Applicants with a conditional job offer will be sent to a medical doctor for a medical screening prior to employment. This will include a drug test

PSYCHOLOGICAL EXAM

Applicants with a conditional job offer will be sent to a psychological examination with a doctor prior to employment. 

QUESTIONS?

If you have questions regarding the hiring process, please contact Recruiting at police_recruiting@pd.cityofsacramento.org or call (916) 808-0880.