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Job Description
Marketing Statement
Ride BART to a satisfying career that lets you both: 1) make a difference to Bay Area residents, and 2) enjoy excellent pay, benefits, and employment stability. BART is looking for people who like to be challenged, work in a fast-paced environment, and have a passion for connecting riders to work, school and other places they need to go. BART offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and the CalPERS retirement program.
Job Summary
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BART POLICE DEPARTMENT AT JOINBARTPD.COM!
WE'RE OFFERING A $15,000 HIRING BONUS!
Pay Rate
This is a BART Police Officers' Association (BPOA) represented position.
$40.50/ Hourly (Step 1) - $49.30/ Hourly (Step 6)
Note: All external candidates will start at Step 1.
Reports To
Police Communications Manager
Current Assignment
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) Police Department is seeking highly skilled, calm-under-pressure, and service-oriented individuals to join our team as Police Dispatchers. Working in a fast-paced, 24/7 public safety communications center, the incumbent will receive and prioritize incoming 911 emergency and non-emergency telephone calls and operate radio systems to dispatch patrol units and other police personnel to crime scenes, service calls, and transit-system emergencies. Dispatchers ensure accurate and timely information flow, maintain situational awareness, and support officers responding to a broad range of incidents, including safety hazards, quality-of-life concerns, medical emergencies, and criminal activity affecting BART’s stations, trains, and facilities.
The most qualified candidates for this position will have highly developed competencies in the following areas, which will be reinforced with related work experience and will be clearly articulated during the selection process:- Strong Communication Skills - Ability to clearly and effectively communicate under pressure, both verbally and in writing, to relay information to officers, the public, and other agencies.
- Decision-Making and Problem-Solving - Quick-thinking and sound judgment in fast-paced, high-stress situations to prioritize and dispatch resources appropriately.
- Multitasking Ability - Capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously, such as answering calls, operating radio systems, and inputting data into computers, while maintaining accuracy.
- Technical Proficiency - Skilled in operating dispatch software, radio systems, and law enforcement databases; familiarity with emergency communication systems is essential.
- Attention to Detail - Ability to accurately process and document critical information, ensuring nothing is missed during high-stress situations.
- Calmness Under Pressure - Ability to stay composed in emergencies, managing stress while maintaining control of the situation.
Selection & Application Process
This position is represented by BART Police Officers Association (BPOA). All applicants must apply online at www.bart.gov/jobs . Applications must be completed in full and include all requested information, including dates of employment, positions held, hours worked, and a detailed description of duties performed.
Applicants may attach a resume to provide supplemental information; however, the resume does not substitute for completing the application form in its entirety. Only information included in the application at the time of submission will be used to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications for the position. All application materials must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement. Applications received after the closing deadline will not be considered.
Applicants who require assistance with the online application process may contact the Talent Acquisition Division at (510) 464-6112 or employment@bart.gov .
The selection process for this position will be in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement and may include one or more of the following: a skills or performance demonstration, written examination, and/or panel or individual interview.
All applications will be reviewed by the Talent Acquisition Division to determine whether applicants meet the established Minimum Qualifications (MQs). Applicants who meet the MQs may be referred to the hiring department for further evaluation as part of the selection process. Unsuccessful applicants may re-apply online by visiting our website at www.bart.gov/jobs for a listing of open positions.
The following outlines the definitions of and selection process for Entry-Level Police Dispatchers and Lateral Police Dispatchers.
ENTRY-LEVEL POLICE DISPATCHER
The selection process for the Entry-Level Police Dispatcher will include 6 phases:
Phase 1: Pre-Screening Application Questionnaire
Phase 2: POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery written examination. Testing is tentatively scheduled for July 2026
Applicants may be waived from the written exam if they possess one of the following:- a POST Entry-Level Dispatcher Selection Test Battery (T-Score) of 48 or higher dated within the last 12 months
- Passing CritiCall scores dated within the last 12 months
- a valid POST Dispatcher Academy Certificate and/or POST Dispatcher Certificate
Email submissions for consideration to the BART Human Resources Department at BPDEmployment@bart.gov .
Phase 3: Minimum Qualifications screening
Phase 4: Typing Test (Or typing certificate submission)
See the 'Typing Certificate Requirements' section below.
NOTE: Current BART employees who are occupying positions which presently require a 40 Net WPM typing requirement will be exempt from meeting the typing certificate requirement for the Entry-Level Police Dispatcher.
Phase 5: Oral Board Interview
Phase 6: Background investigation. (may include polygraph, psychological screening)
LATERAL POLICE DISPATCHER
Applicants will be considered for the Lateral Police Dispatcher classification if they possess at least one (1) year of dispatcher experience and are currently or were previously employed as a dispatcher with a POST-certified agency. Please use the link below to verify whether your employer is POST certified. https://post.ca.gov/le-agencies
Note a typing test or certificate may also be required. See the 'Typing Certificate Requirements' section below.
The selection process for the Lateral Police Dispatcher will include 4 phases:
Phase 1: Pre-Screening Background Questionnaire
Phase 2: Minimum Qualifications screening and a typing test or certificate may also be required.
Phase 3: Oral Board Interview
Phase 4: Background investigation. (may include polygraph, psychological evaluation)
TYPING CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS:
• 5- minute timed test
• Must be able to type at a speed of 40 net words per minute
• Certificate must include gross and net words per minute with no more than 10 errors
• Typing certificates must be within the last six (6) months by a recognized college, public school, career center or temporary employment agency.
The selected candidate must demonstrate a work history reflecting reliability and dependability and may be required to provide copies of certificates, diplomas, or other documentation required by law, including proof of authorization to work in the United States, and pass a pre-employment medical examination, which is specific to the essential job functions and requirements. Pre-employment processing will also include an extensive background check, a credit check and successful completion of a polygraph exam. (Does not apply to current full-time BART Police Department employees unless specific job requires additional evaluations).
If selected to proceed in the background investigative phase of the process, you will be asked to provide some essential documents. The following are some of the documents you may be asked to provide naturalization/citizenship papers, birth certificates, school transcripts, proof of selective service, DMV driving history documents, proof of automobile insurance, marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable), and POST certificates (if applicable).
Examples of Duties
1. Receives and prioritizes incoming 911 emergency and non-emergency telephone calls.
2. Operates radio to dispatch patrol units and other police personnel to crime scenes and other transit system emergencies and incidents.
3. Operates computer terminal to access a variety of police information.
4. Provides radio assistance and information to Police Officers.
5. Coordinates emergency response with other law enforcement agencies and emergency services.
6. Maintains service records and logs other computerized information.
7. Coordinates activities with those of central control for emergency train intercepts, power turn off and other revenue vehicle system emergencies.
8. Provides police-related telephone information to District patrons; answers telephone inquiries from other law enforcement agencies.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Possession of a high school diploma, GED or recognized equivalent.
Experience
One (1) year (full-time equivalent) verifiable experience in a position requiring extensive public contact, communication skills and effective interpersonal relationships. Previous experience with computer terminals and safety dispatching is desirable.
Other Requirements
- Must be able to successfully pass a detailed background investigation prior to appointment.
- Must be able to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
- Must type at 40 net wpm with no more than ten (10) errors.
- Must be able to move quickly from one workstation to another and perform any combination of duties or other related tasks at the same time.
Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of:
- Basic law enforcement terminology, rules and procedures.
- Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of common office equipment.
- Law enforcement dispatch policies and procedures.
Skill in:
- Memorizing codes, names, locations and other detailed information; obtaining information from individuals in emergency situations.
- Understanding and following oral and written directions.
- Making rapid and sound independent judgments in emergency situations.
- Using two-way radio communication equipment effectively.
- Using an on-line computer to access a variety of information.
- Working under periods of stress and dealing with multiple activities simultaneously.
- Performing routine clerical duties.
- Communicating tactfully and effectively with the public, including persons who may be emotional or difficult to understand.
- Maintaining accurate files.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and above), religion, national origin (including language use restrictions), disability (mental and physical, including HIV and AIDS), ancestry, marital status, military status, veteran status, medical condition (cancer/genetic characteristics and information), or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.
The BART Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities or for religious reasons. Please advise the Human Resources Department of any special needs in advance of the examination by emailing at least 5 days before your examination date at employment@bart.gov .
Qualified veterans may be eligible to obtain additional veteran's credit in the selection process for this recruitment (effective Jan. 1, 2013). To obtain the credit, veterans must attach to the application a DD214 discharge document or proof of disability and complete/submit the Veteran's Preference Application no later than the closing date of the posting. For more information about this credit please go to the Veteran's Preference Policy and Application link at www.bart.gov/jobs .
Agency
San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART)
Address
2150 Webster Street
4th Floor
Oakland, California, 94612
Phone
510-464-6112
Website
www.bart.gov/jobs
Equal Employment Opportunity GroupBox1
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and above), religion, national origin (including language use restrictions), disability (mental and physical, including HIV and AIDS), ancestry, marital status, military status, veteran status, medical condition (cancer/genetic characteristics and information), or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.
The BART Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities or for religious reasons. Please advise the Human Resources Department of any special needs in advance of the examination by emailing at least 5 days before your examination date at employment@bart.gov .
Qualified veterans may be eligible to obtain additional veteran's credit in the selection process for this recruitment (effective Jan. 1, 2013). To obtain the credit, veterans must attach to the application a DD214 discharge document or proof of disability and complete/submit the Veteran's Preference Application no later than the closing date of the posting. For more information about this credit please go to the Veteran's Preference Policy and Application link at www.bart.gov/jobs .
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) prides itself in offering best in class benefits packages to employees of the District. Currently, the following benefits may be available to employees in this job classification.
Highlights- Medical Coverage (or $350/month if opted out)
- Dental Coverage
- Vision Insurance (Basic and Enhanced Plans Available)
- Retirement Plan through the CA Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS)
- 2% @ 55 (Miscellaneous Members - Classic)
- 2% @ 62 (Miscellaneous Members - PEPRA)
- 3% @ 50 (Safety Members - Classic)
- 2.7% @ 57 (Safety Members - PEPRA)
- Reciprocity available for existing members of many other public retirement systems (see BART website and/or CalPERS website for details)
- Money Purchase Pension Plan (in-lieu of participating in Social Security tax)
- 6.65% employer contribution up to annual maximum of $1,868.65
- Deferred Compensation & Roth 457
- Sick Leave Accruals (12 days per year)
- Vacation Accruals (3-5 weeks based on time worked w/ the District)
- Holidays:
- Sworn Officers & Police Dispatchers: No floating holidays or observed holidays, but 6.6% pay differential provided above base pay rate
- Non-Sworn Staff: 9 observed holidays and 4 floating holidays
- Life Insurance may be available through employee union
- Survivor Benefits through BART
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance may be available through employee union
- Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care
- Commuter Benefits
- Free BART Passes for BART employees and eligible family members.
Closing Date/Time: 6/30/2026 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Show moreThe BART story began in 1946. It began not by governmental fiat, but as a concept gradually evolving at informal gatherings of business and civic leaders on both sides of the San Francisco Bay. Facing a heavy post-war migration to the area and its consequent automobile boom, these people discussed ways of easing the mounting congestion that was clogging the bridges spanning the Bay. In 1947, a joint Army-Navy review Board concluded that another connecting link between San Francisco and Oakland would be needed in the years ahead to prevent intolerable congestion on the Bay Bridge. The link? An underwater tube devoted exclusively to high-speed electric trains.
Since 1911, visionaries had periodically brought up this Jules Verne concept. But now, pressure for a traffic solution increased with the population. In 1951, the State Legislature created the 26-member San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit Commission, comprised of representatives from each of the nine counties which touch the Bay. The Commission's charge was to study the Bay Area's long range transportation needs in the context of environmental problems and then recommend the best solution.
The Commission advised, in its final report in 1957, that any transportation plan must be coordinated with the area's total plan for future development. Since no development plan existed, the Commission prepared one itself. The result of their thoroughness is a master plan which did much to bring about coordinated planning in the Bay Area, and which was adopted a decade later by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG).
The BART Concept is Born
The Commission's least-cost solution to traffic tie-ups was to recommend forming a five-county rapid transit district, whose mandate would be to build and operate a high-speed rapid rail network linking major commercial centers with suburban sub-centers.The Commission stated that, "If the Bay Area is to be preserved as a fine place to live and work, a regional rapid transit system is essential to prevent total dependence on automobiles and freeways."
Thus was born the environmental concept underlying BART. Acting on the Commission's recommendations, in 1957, the Legislature formed the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District, comprising the five counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo. At this time, the District was granted a taxing power of five cents per $100 of assessed valuation. It also had authority to levy property taxes to support a general obligation bond issue, if approved by District voters. The State Legislature lowered the requirement for voter approval from 66 percent to 60 percent.
Between 1957 and 1962, engineering plans were developed for a system that would usher in a new era in rapid transit. Electric trains would run on grade-separated right-of-ways, reaching maximum speeds of 75-80 mph, averaging perhaps 45 mph, including station stops. Advanced transit cars, with sophisticated suspensions, braking and propulsion systems, and luxurious interiors, would be strong competition to "King Car " in the Bay Area. Stations would be pleasant, conveniently located, and striking architectural enhancements to their respective on-line communities.
BART employees in the 1970s.
Hundreds of meetings were held in the District communities to encourage local citizen participation in the development of routes and station locations. By midsummer, 1961, the final plan was submitted to the supervisors of the five District counties for approval. San Mateo County Supervisors were cool to the plan. Citing the high costs of a new system-plus adequate existing service from Southern Pacific commuter trains - they voted to withdraw their county from the District in December 1961.
With the District-wide tax base thus weakened by the withdrawal of San Mateo County, Marin County was forced to withdraw in early 1962 because its marginal tax base could not adequately absorb its share of BART's projected cost. Another important factor in Marin's withdrawal was an engineering controversy over the feasibility of carrying trains across the Golden Gate Bridge.
BART had started with a 16-member governing Board of Directors apportioned on county population size: four from Alameda and San Francisco Counties, three from Contra Costa and San Mateo, and two from Marin. When the District was reduced to three counties, the Board was reduced to 11 members: four from San Francisco and Alameda, and three from Contra Costa. Subsequently, in 1965, the District's enabling legislation was changed to apportion the BART Board with four Directors from each county, thus giving Contra Costa its fourth member on a 12-person Board. Two directors from each county, hence forth, were appointed by the County Board of Supervisors. The other two directors were appointed by committees of mayors of each county (with the exception of the City and County of San Francisco, whose sole mayor made these appointments).
The five-county plan was quickly revised to a three-county plan emphasizing rapid transit between San Francisco and the East Bay cities and suburbs of Contra Costa and Alameda counties. The new plan, elaborately detailed and presented as the "BART Composite Report, " was approved by supervisors of the three counties in July 1962, and placed on the ballot for the following November general election.
The plan required approval of 60 percent of the District's voters. It narrowly passed with a 61.2 percent vote District-wide, much to the surprise of many political experts who were confident it would fail. Indeed, one influential executive was reported to have said: "If I'd known the damn thing would have passed, I'd never have supported it. "
The voters approved a $792 million bond issue to finance a 71.5 mile high-speed transit system, consisting of 33 stations serving 17 communities in the three counties. The proposal also included another needed transit project: rebuilding 3.5 miles of the San Francisco Municipal Railway. The new line would link muni streetcar lines directly with BART and Market Street stations, and four new Muni stations would be built.
The additional cost of the transbay tube -- estimated at $133 million -- was to come from bonds issued by the California Toll Bridge Authority and secured by future Bay Area Bridge revenues. The additional cost of rolling stock, estimated at $71 million, was to be funded primarily from bonds issued against future operating revenues. Thus, the total cost of the system, as of 1962, was projected at $996 million. It would be the largest single public works project ever undertaken in the U.S. by the local citizenry.
After the election, engineers immediately started work on the final system designs, only to be halted by a taxpayer's suit filed against the District a month later. The validity of the bond election, and the legality of the District itself, were challenged. While the court ruled in favor of the District on both counts, six months of litigation cost $12 million in construction delays. This would be the first of many delays from litigation and time-consuming negotiations involving 166 separate agreements reached with on-line cities, counties, and other special districts. The democratic processes of building a new transit system would prove to be major cost factors that, however necessary, were not foreseen.
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