04/07/2026
Now Hiring: Full-Time 911 Dispatcher (Communications Officer)
Location: Creston, Iowa
Department: Creston Police Department / Union County Law Enforcement Communications Center
About the Position
The City of Creston is seeking motivated, dependable individuals to join our team as Full-Time Communications Officers (911 Dispatchers). This position serves as the critical link between the public and emergency responders, ensuring timely, accurate, and professional communication during both emergency and non-emergency situations.
As a dispatcher, you will play a key role in public safety by receiving calls for service, coordinating response efforts, and supporting law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel in the field.
Pay & Advancement
β’ Starting Pay: $23.67/hour
β’ After 6 Months: $26.24/hour
(Upon successful completion of FTO & BIST training)
β’ After 1 Year: $27.74/hour
(Upon completion of ILEA training & probation)
Key Responsibilities
β’ Answer and prioritize emergency and non-emergency calls
β’ Dispatch law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other resources
β’ Coordinate communication between field personnel and agencies
β’ Enter and maintain accurate information in CAD and related systems
β’ Monitor radio traffic and track unit status
β’ Access and relay information through local, state, and national databases (CJIS)
β’ Provide critical support to officers and responders in the field
What Weβre Looking For
We are looking for individuals who can:
β’ Stay calm and make sound decisions in high-stress situations
β’ Communicate clearly and effectively via phone and radio
β’ Multitask and maintain attention to detail
β’ Work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
β’ Maintain professionalism with the public and responders at all times
Minimum Qualifications
β’ High school diploma or GED
β’ No disqualifying criminal convictions
β’ Ability to obtain and maintain CJIS certification
β’ Ability to pass required background checks
β’ Physically and mentally capable of performing dispatch duties
Training Requirements
β’ Telecommunications Basic Training Program
β’ BIST (Basic Iowa System Training Full Access)
β’ Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification
β’ Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) Telecommunicator training
β’ Ongoing certification and skill maintenance
Schedule & Work Environment
β’ Shift work required (days, nights, weekends, holidays)
β’ Overtime opportunities available
β’ Fast-paced, team-oriented public safety environment
Why Join Our Team?
β’ Competitive pay with structured increases
β’ Meaningful work serving your community
β’ Opportunity to be part of a professional, evolving communications center
β’ Direct impact on public safety operations
How to Apply
Submit your city application, cover letter and resume to:
Application can be obtained online on cities website or in person:
https://www.crestoniowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2789/Employment-Application--
Applications will be accepted through May 1st at 4:00 PM.
π§ [email protected]
π www.crestoniowa.gov
Tamara Fitzgerald
Union County Law Enforcement Center
302 N Pine St.
Creston, IA 50801