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Communications Dispatcher Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do communications dispatcher trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for communications dispatcher trainee in the United States is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Communications Dispatcher Trainees during their initial training period?

Communications Dispatcher Trainees often find the initial training period challenging due to the fast-paced environment and the need to quickly learn multiple communication systems and protocols. Trainees must develop the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, especially when handling emergency calls where accuracy and speed are critical. Additionally, adapting to shift work and collaborating effectively with law enforcement and emergency services teams can require a significant adjustment. However, most agencies provide structured training and mentorship to help new dispatchers succeed.

What is the difference between Communications Dispatcher Trainee vs Communications Dispatcher?

AspectCommunications Dispatcher TraineeCommunications Dispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training programHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervisedActive dispatch center, fast-paced
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning communication protocols, assistingResponding to calls, dispatching units

The Communications Dispatcher Trainee is an entry-level role focused on training and skill development, whereas the Communications Dispatcher is a fully qualified professional responsible for handling emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatching services in a live environment.

What are Communications Dispatcher Trainees?

Communications Dispatcher Trainees are entry-level employees who learn how to receive and process emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and medical services. They are trained to use communication equipment, such as radios and computer-aided dispatch systems, to relay critical information to first responders. Trainees typically work under close supervision as they develop the skills needed to handle high-pressure situations, prioritize calls, and provide instructions to callers until help arrives. This role is essential for ensuring public safety and effective emergency response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Communications Dispatcher Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Communications Dispatcher Trainee, you need strong multitasking abilities, clear verbal communication, and quick decision-making, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is essential. Exceptional listening skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately relaying information, ensuring responder safety, and providing effective assistance during emergencies.
More about Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Communications Dispatcher Trainee job openings:
What states have the most Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Communications Dispatcher Trainee jobs are:

Digital Communications Dispatcher Pre-Certified

HCSO

Brookings, SD

$23.52 - $35.97/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Why choose HCSO? We have a history of stability and excellence. We continue to maintain and cultivate the highest level of standards and professionalism. We are unlike any other. Join the HCSO family!

Compensation Range

$23.52-$35.97

Starting Salary Range

23.52-29.745

Job Description Summary

***Current starting hourly rate is $24.70***
Digital Communications Dispatchers possessing a valid State of Florida 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification will start at 5% above the minimum hourly rate.
Receive and direct emergency and non-emergency calls and utilizing emergency communications equipment to dispatch emergency response personnel to provide timely response to requests for assistance. First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Florida Crime Information Center/National Crime Information Center (FCIC/NCIC) certifications must be obtained during the probationary period.

Job Description

Duties & Responsibilities

Duties may vary based on assignment.

  • Receive 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls, quickly and calmly assesses the situation, enter information into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for agency dispatch, and/ or redirect them to specific or alternate emergency responding agencies or departments.

  • Connect conference calls involving two or more parties to render timely emergency assistance.

  • Dispatch emergency response personnel using digital and/or analog voice communications equipment and/or an emergency computer dispatch system.

  • Create reports to identify incorrect location information received through the Automatic Location Information system to initiate corrective actions.

  • Pinpoint the location of emergency/non-emergency calls initiated from land lines or cellular phones using a Global Positioning System (GPS) and initiate emergency call-backs to obtain additional information or to follow-up on disconnected calls.

  • Type memoranda and report, duplicate or edit emergency call recordings in response to court subpoenas and public records requests, and testify in court to provide an accurate account of information received from emergency/non-emergency calls for assistance.

  • Maintain records and reports including shift reports and operational logs.

  • Perform other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Working knowledge of Sheriff's Office policies, procedures and guidelines, digital and audio communications equipment operation, and the communication center standard operating procedures, regulations, and 9-1-1 system.

  • Some knowledge of law enforcement, emergency medical or fire terminology, and effective communication techniques.

  • Ability to accurately assess emergency information, make correct decisions, and respond to emergencies in a calm and controlled manner.

  • Ability to operate a multi-line or computerized telephone, digital, audio, or radio communications equipment.

  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

  • Ability to locate offices, agencies, or individuals promptly through directories or other information sources.

  • Ability to maintain confidential information and work under stressful conditions.

  • Ability to work effectively with others and follow established procedures.

  • Ability to accurately sort, file, and retrieve material using alphabetical, numerical, or chronological systems.

Working Conditions
  • Work within an office environment within a law enforcement agency.

  • Frequent exposure to potentially distressing calls.

  • Stand/sit at a keyboard or workstation for prolonged periods.

  • May engage in light physical exertion (e.g., lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials up to 10 pounds).

  • Shift work: May work day or night shifts and non-standard hours/days including weekends and holidays.

  • Required to wear a Sheriff's Office provided uniform.

  • In the event of an emergency or disaster, may be required to respond promptly to duties and responsibilities as assigned by management chain, Division/District Commander, or the Sheriff (or their designee). Such assignments may be for before, during or after the emergency/disaster.

Minimum Education & Experience
  • A high school diploma or possession of a GED certificate.

  • Possession of a valid State of Florida 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification.

  • One year of experience receiving, assessing, and dispatching calls for assistance.

OR

  • A high school diploma or possession of a GED certificate.

  • Possession of a valid State of Florida 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification.

  • Two years of experience performing customer service duties.

OR

  • Successful completion of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Digital Communications Dispatcher Trainee program.

Required Pre-Employment Testing
  • Completion of pre-employment testing.

Additional Job Requirements
  • Attendance at the specified Sheriff's Office work location is required.

  • Depending on assignment, employees may be required to possess a valid Florida Driver License at time of employment. Driving history will be thoroughly reviewed and may be grounds for disqualification.

  • No visible tattoos on face, head, and neck. Tattoos determined to take away from the professional appearance of the Sheriff's Office must be covered with an appropriate white, black, or neutral covering.

  • No illegal drug sale within lifetime.

  • No illegal drug use within the past 36 months. No marijuana use within the last 12 months.

  • No felony convictions within lifetime.

  • No misdemeanor convictions involving perjury, false statement, or domestic violence within lifetime.

  • No dishonorable discharge from any branch of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Coast Guard, National Guard, or Reserve Forces.

  • Successful completion of a background investigation including criminal, reference, employment, and neighborhood checks; polygraph; medical evaluation; and drug screening.

  • Live within Hillsborough County or within Citrus, Hardee, Hernando, Lake, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, or Sumter County as long as the residence is located within the 60-mile parameter of Falkenburg Road Jail at the time of appointment/employment (certified only).

The duties and responsibilities on this job description represent the essential functions that an employee must be able to satisfactorily perform with or without reasonable accommodations. Reasonable accommodations shall be made upon request to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue agency hardship. The Sheriff's Office retains the right to change or assign other duties to this job as necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

N/A

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe that diversity and inclusion among our applicants and employees is critical to our success as a community partner. We seek to offer employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical/mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, and military/veteran status.