City of Sun Prairie, WI
Salary :
$61,318.40 - $78,000.00 Annually Location :
Sun Prairie, WI Job Type:
Full Time Job Number:
2025-44 Department:
Police Division:
Dispatch Center Opening Date:
09/17/2025 Closing Date:
10/6/2025 11:59 PM Central
The City of Sun Prairie is currently accepting applications for a Dispatcher position. Currently, we have one (1) full-time vacancy.
**Starting salary is based upon prior dispatching experience and familiarity with the programs utilized by SNPD.** Who we are as an Employer?
We are the second most populous municipality in Dane County and is home to over 38,000 residents. A vibrant and thriving community, Sun Prairie is known in the region for it's high quality of life, It's excellent parks and recreation program, historic downtown, it's exceptional public school system, and progressive approach to the development and redevelopment of the community. The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture. These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING TIMELINE OF IMPORTANT DATES: DATE
STEP
October 6 @ 11:59pm
Application window closes
October 8
Review Applications
October 14 & 15
Interviews - Virtual
October 15
Candidates notified to complete Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) for background investigation
October 20-24
Candidate Sit Ins with dispatch and typing test, Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) due
October 27
Final Candidate Review
October 28
Background Reviews Start
November 25
Background reports complete
November 26
Conditional offer extended
December 1-5
Pre-employment appointments
December 15
Anticipated Start Date A little about the Sun Prairie Dispatch Center
As a 24-7 Dispatch Center Sun Prairie Police Dispatch requires staffing at all hours of the day 365 days a year. As a dispatcher for Sun Prairie Police successful applicants will be required to work on all shifts during training which takes 3-4 months. After completion of training a shift will be assigned based on department needs. This shift is typically an overnight or afternoon shift. Typical schedules look like the example below. Time off is provided by vacation picks which occur once a year. Dispatch is provided with a vacation bank, holiday bank and sick bank.
Work Schedule/Shifts Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Week 1
Work
Off
Off
Work
Work
Off
Off
Week 2
Off
Work
Work
Work
Off
Work
Work
Week 3
Work
Off
Off
Work
Work
Off
Off
Week 4
Off
Work
Work
Work
Off
Work
Work
Essential Job Functions
An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all the following essential functions. These examples do not include all the duties which the employee may be expected to perform. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.
Triage incoming calls to the police department, determining appropriate resources for the caller. Keeps the caller on the line when appropriate to obtain additional information and prioritizes the service requests based upon the nature of the request. Contacts various parties to notify of complaints and/or actions required. Monitor department's CAD (Computer Aided Dispatching) system for incoming calls from other sources and dispatch appropriately. Maintains an accurate computerized log through the CAD system and enters, retrieves, and queries data. Establishes priority of multiple emergency service requests and assigns personnel in order of availability according to Department procedure. Operates two-way radio to dispatch calls to patrol/traffic units and receives and communicates information, keeping track of officer locations and duties being performed by each. Operates the Wisconsin Department of Justice Computer System. This includes running queries on persons, vehicles or property and providing the information to filed units upon request. Makes entries into CIB (Crime Information Bureau) and NCIC (National Crime Information Center) files on persons, vehicles, and property. Enter data for officers, run criminal hx and local checks, advise on open cases and bail conditions. Officers also can do this from their squad and are requested to do so on calls for service that allow. Monitors the alarm panels in the dispatch center and acts within established operating procedures. Monitors other area Law Enforcement agencies' radio frequencies as well as local Fire, Public Works, Water & Light, Wastewater, and school district frequencies. Records various information compiled during a shift and logs follow up to be done when necessary. This includes referring streetlights or traffic control light outages, or other potentially hazardous conditions that may require additional action by other City departments or outside agencies. Other Job Functions
Receives telephone requests for non-emergency situations and provides information and referral when necessary. Operates the screens and angles of the cameras to the City Hall and Westside Community Service Buildings. Operates the intercom for the building. May assist with the training of new Dispatchers which is done by a certified training officer (CTO), as well as other departmental employees as assigned. Contacts appropriate emergency personnel and coordinates response efforts when severe weather exists. This includes the operation of the outdoor emergency warning sirens. Ensures compliance with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations for proper operation and use of radio transmitters. Logs equipment failures and ensures that the proper person(s) is contacted for timely repairs.
Requirements of Work
This position requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent including two years of high school level English and one year of high school level mathematics. Minimum of one year of experience operating a multi-line switchboard and/or one year of experience operating a two-way radio or an equivalent amount of training and experience. Minimum of one year of experience in customer service, multi-tasking, and data entry is preferred.
Knowledge of
Public locations and streets in the City of Sun Prairie Emergency agencies in the area. Police Department emergency operations, the use of office equipment, and some knowledge of modern supervisory techniques. CAD and records management software Ability to
Communicate effectively in person, via telephone, and on the radio in a clear and concise manner. Make very high critical decisions that could result in financial loss, property damage, or bodily harm/loss of life if an error were to occur. Ensure high-level of discretion with decisions restricted only by departmental policies and little direct guidance from a supervisor. Promptly analyze and evaluate emergency situations and to quickly and calmly select an appropriate course of action.
Skill in
Operation of basic telephone, switchboard, teletype, computer terminal, or related communications equipment. Routine consultation and technology support from IT for everyday computer programming and/or software requests/questions to others in the organization.
Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work is performed mostly in an office setting; hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee must be able to travel to equipment locations throughout the city, in order to access equipment. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture. These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do. Keep us accountable to this mission and join us in this commitment to a thriving Sun Prairie, as you live, work, and play. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 608-825-1174 or Learn more about our Benefits by visiting our website: www.cityofsunprairie.com/benefits
HEALTH INSURANCE
The City offers a High Deductible Health Plan and will pay 100% for family and single coverage. Point of service for providers outside of the network is also offered at an additional cost. Provider is Dean Health Insurance. Coverage begins on the 1st of the following month (i.e.; DOH=January 1st or 15th, coverage begins February 1st) ACCESS TO OUR EMPLOYEE WELLNESS CLINIC
- myspwellnessclinic.org DENTAL INSURANCE
Delta Dental
The City provides 100% premium payment for single or family coverage. Coverage begins on the 1st of the following month. LIFE INSURANCE
State Life Fund- Minnesota Mutual
The City provides 100% premium payment for
basic
coverage (1 times annual salary)
The employee has the ability to purchase at their expense
supplemental
coverage,
additional
coverage (up to 3 units),and
spouse/dependent
coverage. Eligibility begins 1st of the month, following 30 days of employment (ie; DOH Feb 1st, April 1st coverage begins). Boston
Mutual Whole Life Insurance
The employee has the ability to purchase at their expense and
eligibility would be in September of each year. INCOME CONTINUATION INS - State Fund This benefit provides up to 75% of your average earnings if you become disabled. The City provides coverage up to $64,000 at the 180-day elimination period. Employees can buy down to a shorter elimination period at their expense. Supplemental coverage is also available for earnings over $64,000 up to $120,000 at the employee's expense. Eligibility begins the 1st of the following month, unless you were previously employed in WRS. VISION INSURANCE
Available for the employee to purchase at their own expense.
PET INSURANCE Available for the employee to purchase at their own expense.
RETIREMENT
Wisconsin Retirement System which requires a matching 6.8% employee contribution. Deferred Comp, Traditional or Roth IRA The employee can participate in a 457 Deferred Comp Plan, IRA Traditional or Roth IRA, if they choose. SICK LEAVE
Accumulation of one day per month. At retirement ability to convert sick balance up to 120 days into a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA).
PAID PARENTAL LEAVE Effective September 4, 2018, all City of Sun Prairie employees who meet the eligibility criteria and have a qualifying event, shall receive 240 hours (prorated for less that 1.0 FTE) of Paid Parental Leave once per year.
VACATION
Vacation is earned on your anniversary Upon Start - 3 weeks (120 hrs)
Completion of 5 years - 4 weeks (160 hrs)
Completion of 10 years - 5 weeks (200 hrs)
Completion of 15 years - 6 weeks (240 hrs)
Prorated for part time employees HOLIDAYS
Employees shall receive a holiday bank of eighty- eight (88) hours each year to schedule as time off or be paid at the end of the year. In addition, employees shall receive time and one-half for all hours worked on the following named holidays.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
Spring Holiday Memorial Day,
Fourth of July Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day the day after Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Eve Day Christmas Day,
New Years Eve Day New Years Day. ???????One Personal Day is given at the beginning of each year (prorated if hired after July 1 and not available if hired after October 1).
$61,318.40 - $78,000.00 Annually Location :
Sun Prairie, WI Job Type:
Full Time Job Number:
2025-44 Department:
Police Division:
Dispatch Center Opening Date:
09/17/2025 Closing Date:
10/6/2025 11:59 PM Central
The City of Sun Prairie is currently accepting applications for a Dispatcher position. Currently, we have one (1) full-time vacancy.
**Starting salary is based upon prior dispatching experience and familiarity with the programs utilized by SNPD.** Who we are as an Employer?
We are the second most populous municipality in Dane County and is home to over 38,000 residents. A vibrant and thriving community, Sun Prairie is known in the region for it's high quality of life, It's excellent parks and recreation program, historic downtown, it's exceptional public school system, and progressive approach to the development and redevelopment of the community. The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture. These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING TIMELINE OF IMPORTANT DATES: DATE
STEP
October 6 @ 11:59pm
Application window closes
October 8
Review Applications
October 14 & 15
Interviews - Virtual
October 15
Candidates notified to complete Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) for background investigation
October 20-24
Candidate Sit Ins with dispatch and typing test, Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) due
October 27
Final Candidate Review
October 28
Background Reviews Start
November 25
Background reports complete
November 26
Conditional offer extended
December 1-5
Pre-employment appointments
December 15
Anticipated Start Date A little about the Sun Prairie Dispatch Center
As a 24-7 Dispatch Center Sun Prairie Police Dispatch requires staffing at all hours of the day 365 days a year. As a dispatcher for Sun Prairie Police successful applicants will be required to work on all shifts during training which takes 3-4 months. After completion of training a shift will be assigned based on department needs. This shift is typically an overnight or afternoon shift. Typical schedules look like the example below. Time off is provided by vacation picks which occur once a year. Dispatch is provided with a vacation bank, holiday bank and sick bank.
Work Schedule/Shifts Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Week 1
Work
Off
Off
Work
Work
Off
Off
Week 2
Off
Work
Work
Work
Off
Work
Work
Week 3
Work
Off
Off
Work
Work
Off
Off
Week 4
Off
Work
Work
Work
Off
Work
Work
Essential Job Functions
An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all the following essential functions. These examples do not include all the duties which the employee may be expected to perform. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.
Triage incoming calls to the police department, determining appropriate resources for the caller. Keeps the caller on the line when appropriate to obtain additional information and prioritizes the service requests based upon the nature of the request. Contacts various parties to notify of complaints and/or actions required. Monitor department's CAD (Computer Aided Dispatching) system for incoming calls from other sources and dispatch appropriately. Maintains an accurate computerized log through the CAD system and enters, retrieves, and queries data. Establishes priority of multiple emergency service requests and assigns personnel in order of availability according to Department procedure. Operates two-way radio to dispatch calls to patrol/traffic units and receives and communicates information, keeping track of officer locations and duties being performed by each. Operates the Wisconsin Department of Justice Computer System. This includes running queries on persons, vehicles or property and providing the information to filed units upon request. Makes entries into CIB (Crime Information Bureau) and NCIC (National Crime Information Center) files on persons, vehicles, and property. Enter data for officers, run criminal hx and local checks, advise on open cases and bail conditions. Officers also can do this from their squad and are requested to do so on calls for service that allow. Monitors the alarm panels in the dispatch center and acts within established operating procedures. Monitors other area Law Enforcement agencies' radio frequencies as well as local Fire, Public Works, Water & Light, Wastewater, and school district frequencies. Records various information compiled during a shift and logs follow up to be done when necessary. This includes referring streetlights or traffic control light outages, or other potentially hazardous conditions that may require additional action by other City departments or outside agencies. Other Job Functions
Receives telephone requests for non-emergency situations and provides information and referral when necessary. Operates the screens and angles of the cameras to the City Hall and Westside Community Service Buildings. Operates the intercom for the building. May assist with the training of new Dispatchers which is done by a certified training officer (CTO), as well as other departmental employees as assigned. Contacts appropriate emergency personnel and coordinates response efforts when severe weather exists. This includes the operation of the outdoor emergency warning sirens. Ensures compliance with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations for proper operation and use of radio transmitters. Logs equipment failures and ensures that the proper person(s) is contacted for timely repairs.
Requirements of Work
This position requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent including two years of high school level English and one year of high school level mathematics. Minimum of one year of experience operating a multi-line switchboard and/or one year of experience operating a two-way radio or an equivalent amount of training and experience. Minimum of one year of experience in customer service, multi-tasking, and data entry is preferred.
Knowledge of
Public locations and streets in the City of Sun Prairie Emergency agencies in the area. Police Department emergency operations, the use of office equipment, and some knowledge of modern supervisory techniques. CAD and records management software Ability to
Communicate effectively in person, via telephone, and on the radio in a clear and concise manner. Make very high critical decisions that could result in financial loss, property damage, or bodily harm/loss of life if an error were to occur. Ensure high-level of discretion with decisions restricted only by departmental policies and little direct guidance from a supervisor. Promptly analyze and evaluate emergency situations and to quickly and calmly select an appropriate course of action.
Skill in
Operation of basic telephone, switchboard, teletype, computer terminal, or related communications equipment. Routine consultation and technology support from IT for everyday computer programming and/or software requests/questions to others in the organization.
Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work is performed mostly in an office setting; hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee must be able to travel to equipment locations throughout the city, in order to access equipment. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture. These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do. Keep us accountable to this mission and join us in this commitment to a thriving Sun Prairie, as you live, work, and play. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 608-825-1174 or Learn more about our Benefits by visiting our website: www.cityofsunprairie.com/benefits
HEALTH INSURANCE
The City offers a High Deductible Health Plan and will pay 100% for family and single coverage. Point of service for providers outside of the network is also offered at an additional cost. Provider is Dean Health Insurance. Coverage begins on the 1st of the following month (i.e.; DOH=January 1st or 15th, coverage begins February 1st) ACCESS TO OUR EMPLOYEE WELLNESS CLINIC
- myspwellnessclinic.org DENTAL INSURANCE
Delta Dental
The City provides 100% premium payment for single or family coverage. Coverage begins on the 1st of the following month. LIFE INSURANCE
State Life Fund- Minnesota Mutual
The City provides 100% premium payment for
basic
coverage (1 times annual salary)
The employee has the ability to purchase at their expense
supplemental
coverage,
additional
coverage (up to 3 units),and
spouse/dependent
coverage. Eligibility begins 1st of the month, following 30 days of employment (ie; DOH Feb 1st, April 1st coverage begins). Boston
Mutual Whole Life Insurance
The employee has the ability to purchase at their expense and
eligibility would be in September of each year. INCOME CONTINUATION INS - State Fund This benefit provides up to 75% of your average earnings if you become disabled. The City provides coverage up to $64,000 at the 180-day elimination period. Employees can buy down to a shorter elimination period at their expense. Supplemental coverage is also available for earnings over $64,000 up to $120,000 at the employee's expense. Eligibility begins the 1st of the following month, unless you were previously employed in WRS. VISION INSURANCE
Available for the employee to purchase at their own expense.
PET INSURANCE Available for the employee to purchase at their own expense.
RETIREMENT
Wisconsin Retirement System which requires a matching 6.8% employee contribution. Deferred Comp, Traditional or Roth IRA The employee can participate in a 457 Deferred Comp Plan, IRA Traditional or Roth IRA, if they choose. SICK LEAVE
Accumulation of one day per month. At retirement ability to convert sick balance up to 120 days into a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA).
PAID PARENTAL LEAVE Effective September 4, 2018, all City of Sun Prairie employees who meet the eligibility criteria and have a qualifying event, shall receive 240 hours (prorated for less that 1.0 FTE) of Paid Parental Leave once per year.
VACATION
Vacation is earned on your anniversary Upon Start - 3 weeks (120 hrs)
Completion of 5 years - 4 weeks (160 hrs)
Completion of 10 years - 5 weeks (200 hrs)
Completion of 15 years - 6 weeks (240 hrs)
Prorated for part time employees HOLIDAYS
Employees shall receive a holiday bank of eighty- eight (88) hours each year to schedule as time off or be paid at the end of the year. In addition, employees shall receive time and one-half for all hours worked on the following named holidays.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
Spring Holiday Memorial Day,
Fourth of July Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day the day after Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Eve Day Christmas Day,
New Years Eve Day New Years Day. ???????One Personal Day is given at the beginning of each year (prorated if hired after July 1 and not available if hired after October 1).