1

Dispatcher Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Dispatcher Trainee

CA · On-site

$85K - $92K/yr

Trainees receive hands-on instruction and guided experience in departmental procedures, radio protocols, applicable laws, codes and regulations, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), telecommunications ...

Operations Opening Date: 09/04/2026 Closing Date: 9/27/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Police Dispatcher Trainee Answer the Call! Join WCCCA - the second largest primary 9-1-1 Center in Oregon. We provide ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dispatcher Trainee information

See salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do dispatcher trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dispatcher trainee in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dispatcher trainee?

A Dispatcher Trainee is an entry-level position for individuals learning to coordinate and manage communications for emergency or non-emergency services, such as police, fire, ambulance, or transportation. Trainees receive on-the-job training to understand protocols, use communication equipment, and handle stress in fast-paced environments. Their role is to support senior dispatchers while becoming proficient in processing calls, dispatching appropriate units, and maintaining detailed records. As they gain experience and pass required assessments, they may advance to full dispatcher roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dispatcher trainee?

To thrive as a Dispatcher Trainee, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dispatch software, two-way radio systems, and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent communication, stress management, and problem-solving abilities help you handle high-pressure situations and interact effectively with callers and team members. These skills are essential for ensuring accurate, timely information flow and maintaining safety and efficiency in emergency or logistics operations.

What are some common challenges faced by dispatcher trainees during their initial training period?

Dispatcher Trainees often encounter challenges such as managing high-pressure situations, quickly adapting to rapidly changing information, and efficiently using specialized communication systems. Learning to prioritize multiple incoming requests and maintaining clear communication with both field personnel and the public can be demanding. However, structured training programs, mentorship from experienced dispatchers, and ongoing feedback help trainees build confidence and proficiency over time.

What is the difference between Dispatcher Trainee vs Dispatcher?

AspectDispatcher TraineeDispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised, entry-levelFull responsibilities, independent decision-making
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning dispatch procedures, shadowingScheduling, routing, communication with drivers

The Dispatcher Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and shadowing experienced dispatchers, while the Dispatcher is a fully responsible role managing daily operations. The trainee is in a learning phase, whereas the dispatcher handles independent decision-making and client interactions.

How long is training for a dispatcher trainee?

Training for a dispatcher trainee typically lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the company's program and the complexity of the dispatching environment. It often includes classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and certification in relevant tools or systems. The duration can vary based on prior experience and the specific industry requirements.

How to become a dispatcher trainee?

To become a dispatcher trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should develop strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Some employers may require familiarity with dispatch software or a valid driver's license, and on-the-job training is usually provided to learn specific procedures and tools used in dispatching.

How to get started as a dispatcher trainee?

To start as a dispatcher trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong communication skills. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and familiarity with dispatch software or GPS systems can be beneficial. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work flexible hours.

Is it hard to get hired as a dispatcher trainee?

Getting hired as a dispatcher trainee can vary depending on the employer and location, but generally, it requires good communication skills, basic computer knowledge, and a willingness to learn. Many companies offer on-the-job training, so prior experience is not always necessary. Candidates with a clean background and a flexible schedule may have better chances of securing a trainee position.
More about Dispatcher Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Dispatcher Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Dispatcher Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Dispatcher jobs?

The most popular types of Dispatcher jobs are:

What states have the most Dispatcher Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dispatcher Trainee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Dispatcher Trainee jobs?

For Dispatcher Trainee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dispatcher Trainee job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee

Appomattox, VA • On-site

State of Virginia
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodies • 10K+ employees

$57K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee

Apply now Job no: 5111554
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Appomattox, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety

Title: Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee DSP01176

State Role Title: Emergency Coordinator II

Hiring Range: Dispatcher Trainees will start at $52,651. $57,917 to $75,300 for Dispatchers and salary is Negotiable and Commensurate with Experience.

Pay Band: 3 or 4

Agency: Department of State Police

Location: Appomattox, Virginia

Agency Website: vsp.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Candidates with prior dispatching training and experience may be hired as a Dispatcher (Emergency Coordinator II), and the salary offered will be commensurate with experience.
Candidates with limited experience are hired as a Dispatcher Trainee (Emergency Coordinator I - pay-band 3, $52,651). After satisfactory completion of the Dispatcher Trainee Training Curriculum, employees will progress to a Dispatcher (Emergency Coordinator II - pay-band 4) and will receive a 10% salary increase.
Experienced candidates who are not placed in a trainee status are not eligible for the 10% salary increase.
About the Position:

The Virginia State Police (VSP) is seeking to hire a Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee at the Division III Headquarters in Appomattox, Virginia. The job duties for this position include but are not limited to:
Performing work within a specific geographical area by sending and receiving information and by sending emergency assistance or service equipment as required assisting law enforcement personnel or the public.
Aiding law enforcement personnel, emergency personnel, the public, and the media.
Operating a variety of equipment.
Maintaining various logs and records of activities.
Accessing information through several systems including Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) and other databases.
May work rotating shifts and is considered essential personnel.
About the Agency:
At the Virginia State Police, we are more than just a law enforcement organization - we're a united team of problemsolvers, protectors, and public servants shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Every role here strengthens our mission to preserve life, protect the vulnerable, and enhance safety while upholding civil liberties throughout Virginia.
When you join VSP, your skills create real impact across every community we serve. Our culture is built on being selfless, engaged, and aware, and we succeed through timely, purposeful action; clear communication; personal accountability; and continuous improvement - together.
We prioritize the readiness and wellbeing of all our people, entrusting decisionmaking to those closest to the challenge and supporting one another with kind, direct feedback that helps us grow. At VSP, you will find meaningful work, real opportunities for advancement, and a supportive culture grounded in service, purpose, and the belief that we are One Mission. One Team. One VSP.
If you're ready to make a difference and be part of something larger than yourself, your next career starts here.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge:
Operating standard office equipment such as fax and copy machines.
Skills:
Operating computers.
Using Microsoft Office software applications.
Data entry.
Problem solving.
Customer service.
Abilities:
Effectively communicate with the public.
Work in a high pressure, high stress environment.
Exercise resourcefulness and sound judgement under stress and multitask.
Manage complaints/compliments, directing to appropriate supervision.
Enter/record information into automated systems and keep records and logs updated.
Communicate effectively orally and in writing in English.
Be flexible, work effectively independently and as a member of a team.
Work holidays, weekends and rotating shifts.
Successfully complete required training within six (6) months from hire.
Must be able to become Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) certified which requires either United States citizenship or a lawful permanent resident of the United States and eligible for naturalization.
May work rotating shifts and is considered essential personnel.
Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Additional Considerations

N/A

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Elements of the selection process include the screening of application(s); the interviewing of qualified candidate(s), to include pre-employment testing, a presentation and/or a work sample, if applicable; salary negotiation(s) if applicable; a background investigation; and a medical evaluation if applicable. The anticipated duration of the pre-employment process is determined by the successful completion of the above items.
Applications, cover letters and/or resumes shall only be accepted on-line through the PageUp recruitment management system at https://jobs.virginia.gov and must be received by 11:55 P. M. on September 8, 2026. Please limit resumes to four pages and cover letters to one page. Any additional attachments received in excess of this will not be considered.
PageUp provides confirmation of receipt of your application, resume and/or cover letter submitted successfully. Please refer to your PageUp account to check the status of your application for this position. For questions, please contact the Talent Acquisition & Employee Relations Section of the Human Resources Division at professionalemployment@vsp.virginia.gov.
It is the policy of the Department of State Police (the Department) that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
This policy shall be adhered to in all aspects of Departmental employment practices. It does not permit the lowering of bona fide job requirements, performance criteria, or qualifications to give preference to any state employee or applicant for state employment based on the above prohibitions.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 01 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 08 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What State Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom