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Entry Level 911 Dispatcher Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

City of Sumner

Entry Level Police Officer

Sumner, WA

$88K - $113K/yr

... and dispatch service is provided by South Sound 911. The City also provides contracted animal ... Entry Level Candidates- your current, updated Personal History Statement is required to be ...

City of Sumner, WA

Entry Level Police Officer

Sumner, WA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

... and dispatch service is provided by South Sound 911. The City also provides contracted animal ... For Entry Level Candidates- your current, updated Personal History Statement is required to be ...

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Entry Level 911 Dispatcher information

See Renton, WA salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do entry level 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 911 dispatcher in Renton, WA is $24.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level 911 dispatcher?

An Entry Level 911 Dispatcher is responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering critical information, and dispatching the appropriate emergency services such as police, fire, or medical personnel. They must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and accurately document details. Training is typically provided on procedures, computer systems, and crisis management. This role requires strong multitasking skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and a commitment to public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level 911 dispatcher?

To thrive as an Entry Level 911 Dispatcher, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Familiarity with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone systems, and sometimes completion of state or agency-specific dispatcher certification are important. Attention to detail, active listening, and emotional resilience are highly valued soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate information gathering, swift response coordination, and effective support for both callers and emergency personnel.

What are the typical work shifts like for entry level 911 dispatchers?

Entry level 911 dispatchers usually work in shifts that cover 24/7 operations, which can include overnights, weekends, and holidays. Shifts may be 8, 10, or 12 hours depending on the agency, and some overtime is often required, especially during emergencies or staffing shortages. New dispatchers often start with less desirable shifts, such as nights or weekends, but can gain priority for preferred shifts with experience and seniority. Working as part of a team in a fast-paced control center, dispatchers must be prepared for varying call volumes and the unpredictable nature of emergencies.

How easy is it to get hired as an entry level 911 dispatcher?

Getting hired as an entry-level 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as many agencies require candidates to pass background checks, complete training, and obtain certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). Having strong communication skills, a calm demeanor, and relevant training can improve chances of employment, but the hiring process often involves multiple steps and assessments.

How long does it take to become an entry level 911 dispatcher?

Becoming an entry-level 911 dispatcher typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and may need to obtain certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) or Emergency Telecommunicator Certification, which can add to the preparation time.

What qualifications do you need to be an entry level 911 dispatcher?

Entry level 911 dispatchers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Some agencies may require completion of dispatch training programs or certifications, and candidates often undergo background checks and drug screenings before employment.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Renton, WA?

For Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs?

Cities near Renton, WA with the most Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings:

Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings in Renton, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,543 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

ENTRY LEVEL Telecommunicator (911 Call-Taker/Dispatcher)- 2027 Class

South Sound 911

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$34.29/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Please apply here for our next Entry-Level 911 Telecommunicator hiring class. This class is tentatively scheduled to begin in early 2027. A definitive date is TBD.


Once you apply, your application will be held for review/next steps until early November. We will reach out to you then with next steps.


PLEASE NOTE: 
Before submitting an application for a 911 Communications (Entry-Level Telecommunicator) position through our website, candidates must complete the following prerequisite steps:


Required Pre-Application Steps

  1. Complete the Dispatch Written Exam through Public Safety Testing (PST)
    • Visit Public Safety Testing to register to test
    • A testing deadline will be posted on the South Sound 911 PST profile.
    • Testing after the listed deadline is still accepted; however, your application will be considered for the next available hiring group. Updated hiring dates will be reflected on our PST profile.
  2. Complete your Personal History Statement (PHS)
    • The PHS must be completed within your PST profile.

For questions regarding the Dispatch Written Exam or the PHS, please contact Public Safety Testing (PST) directly.


SUMMARY:

This position processes 911 and non-emergency calls by screening, recording information and transferring calls as appropriate for law enforcement, fire and medical aid services in an accurate and timely manner, providing routine information and assistance to the public as well as various law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies and other City and County agencies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Serve as primary communication link between partner agencies and the public by answering incoming calls on emergency and non-emergency lines, and processing appropriately according to policies and procedures in a calm and efficient manner. 

Accurately record pertinent information into a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system.

Communicate with the public, partner agencies and others to provide and receive information as requested or required, including preparation of a variety of reports such as general police reports, supplemental reports, 911 trouble reports and others as requested.

Operate a variety of communication equipment such as a personal computer, Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software, TDD and other technologies.

Provide training and orientation to other employees and assist co-workers when needed.

Obtain and maintain certifications required for this position.

Testify in court as required. 

Additional duties as assigned and related.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Fluent use of the English language, to include the ability to understand written and verbal instructions, understand and interpret complex rules and procedures, explain and apply applicable laws, ordinances, codes, regulations, policies and procedures.

Ability to work appropriately with confidential material and information.

Must be able to analyze situations quickly using independent judgment in problem solving and decision-making to adopt an effective course of action.

Communicate efficiently and effectively both orally and in writing using tact, patience and courtesy to maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

Ability to travel to other local locations in a timely manner, as needed for performance of the job.

Time management and organizational skills to work with interruptions and meet expected schedules and timelines.

Ability to work with Microsoft Office software, database applications, and standard communication systems.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Graduation from high school or equivalent, plus two years of experience involving considerable public contact
and multi-tasking.  Equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND 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.

The agency operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year and work may be required at any time. Overtime work on a volunteer or mandatory basis to cover staffing and/or workload needs.  May include extended shifts and/or work on scheduled day(s) off.

Must be able to hear and talk.  Vision required in the job includes close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Must frequently sit for extended periods at a computer terminal, walk both indoors and out, use hands to finger, handle or feel.  Frequently required to reach with hands and arms; occasionally must stand, bend/stoop, or kneel.  Occasionally must lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  Must be able to travel away from the regular worksite as required.

Indoor, climate-controlled office environment.  Noise exposure is generally that of normal conversation level. Work requires extended periods of concentration and sedentary work at the work station, and is subject to frequent interruptions.  Headsets are provided with suppressors to protect ears from feedback; fully adjustable ergonomic chairs, adjustable workstations with lighting options; wrist rest, footrest, non-glare computer screen.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee(s) in this job title. The statements are not a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of employee(s) in this job title. Furthermore, the job description does not establish a contract of employment and is subject to change at the discretion of the agency.


South Sound 911 offers the following benefits; https://southsound911.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Benefit-Info-access.pdf