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Internship 911 Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

911 - Communications Officer Annual Pay: $46,285.36 This position is responsible for receiving ... Possession of or ability to readily obtain Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Fire Emergency ...

The candidate will be working closely with System Administrators of Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) ... You will gain experience in the full life cycle of emergency data-from the moment a 911 call hits ...

Internship 911 Dispatcher information

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$11

$22

$33

How much do internship 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship 911 dispatcher 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 can I expect in terms of training and mentorship during an internship as a 911 dispatcher?

As an intern 911 Dispatcher, you will typically receive comprehensive training that includes classroom instruction, simulation exercises, and supervised on-the-job experience. You'll be paired with experienced dispatchers who serve as mentors, guiding you through emergency protocols, call handling, and radio communication. The work environment is fast-paced and team-oriented, so you'll collaborate closely with dispatchers, law enforcement, and emergency response teams. Expect regular feedback sessions to help you build confidence and develop essential skills for the role.

What is an internship 911 dispatcher?

An Internship 911 Dispatcher is a trainee or student who assists in the operations of an emergency communications center while gaining hands-on experience in handling emergency and non-emergency calls. Interns typically work under the supervision of certified dispatchers, learning how to collect critical information, dispatch appropriate emergency services, and use communication equipment and software. This position offers valuable insights into the fast-paced and high-stress environment of emergency response, preparing interns for a potential career as a full-time 911 dispatcher.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship 911 dispatcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship 911 Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, situational awareness, and clear communication skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is typically required. Outstanding composure under pressure, empathy, and active listening set candidates apart in this role. These skills are critical for accurately relaying information and ensuring timely, effective emergency response.

What is the most an internship 911 dispatcher can make?

Internship 911 dispatchers typically do not receive a salary or may earn a small stipend, as internships are often unpaid or offer minimal compensation. Paid positions for entry-level 911 dispatchers after completing training can range from around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location and experience. Compensation increases with experience, certifications, and additional responsibilities.

What is the difference between Internship 911 Dispatcher vs 911 Dispatcher?

AspectInternship 911 Dispatcher911 Dispatcher
CredentialsTypically in progress or recent completion of relevant courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, limited responsibilitiesActive emergency call center, high-pressure environment
Employer & IndustryPublic safety agencies, during training or internship programsPublic safety agencies, emergency response centers

Internship 911 Dispatchers are in training or gaining experience, focusing on learning procedures and skills. 911 Dispatchers are fully responsible for handling emergency calls, making quick decisions, and coordinating responses. The internship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a full 911 Dispatcher.

Is it hard to get hired as an internship 911 dispatcher?

Getting hired as an internship 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as it often requires relevant skills such as communication, multitasking, and knowledge of emergency protocols. Applicants typically need to meet minimum qualifications, pass background checks, and complete training or certification programs before starting the internship.

Can you job shadow an internship 911 dispatcher?

Job shadowing an internship 911 dispatcher is often possible and can provide valuable insight into the role's responsibilities, communication skills, and emergency response procedures. However, permission from the dispatcher and agency is typically required, and some agencies may have restrictions due to confidentiality or safety protocols.
More about Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs

What cities are hiring for Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs?

Cities with the most Internship 911 Dispatcher job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Dispatcher jobs?

The most popular types of 911 Dispatcher jobs are:

What states have the most Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship 911 Dispatcher jobs are:

Infographic showing various Internship 911 Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 63% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

$29.99/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 98 rated public transport


Job description

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's core values are built around safety, service, equity, sustainability, culture, and accessibility, and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values.

This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed. Job Summary The 911 Operator is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls for service over the telephone and by other means, employing appropriate call screening protocols, and responding to those calls by dispatching the appropriate public safety resources. This position is responsible for interaction with other public safety dispatch centers in the answering and transferring of calls and incident information, and for maintaining communications with field personnel in law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies.

This position is required to respond appropriately to requests for services and information from field personnel. Duties & Responsibilities Answer all incoming emergency and non-emergency calls to TPD via 10-Digit Telephone Lines, Emergency and Non-emergency 1212 lines from internal sources. Monitor back up radios (2 frequencies).

Monitor ELERTS system and radios and answers telephones to obtain information regarding reported emergency. Determine nature of response, calls in required personnel and dispatches appropriate fire, police and other emergency response personnel to emergency scene. Relay messages to various Department personnel and departments regarding emergencies.

Call in assistance from other communities in accordance with established procedures and protocols. Respond to non-emergency calls, providing information and assistance and refers callers to appropriate department and/or employee. Act as liaison between local and neighboring municipalities and the public utility for the purpose of reporting emergency situations, needed repairs and loss of service.

Dispatch calls for service via the TPD's radio system. Enter calls for service via the TPD's CAD Records Management System. Perform related duties and projects assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include focus on one or more departments or locations. See applicable addendum for department or location specific functions. Supervision No direct reports.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) from an accredited institution . Possess a polite but authoritative telephone voice and manner, as well as the ability to understand and skillfully manage emergency and business callers. Ability to be understood clearly by others over radio and telephone circuits, to accurately record the detail of telephone and radio conversations, and to remain calm under the pressure of emergencies, aggressive or emotional callers, peaking workloads, and multiple (simultaneous) responsibilities

Ability to sit at a computer workstation for extended periods in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Simultaneously process information from multiple sources (verbal, text, and video) and keep information clear. Recall details and record information/numbers quickly and correctly.

Communicate effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing. Work collaboratively and cooperatively with co-workers and personnel from customer agencies. Substitutions None Preferred Experience & Skills Previous dispatcher or telecommunicator experience.

Proficiency in Spanish or Haitian-Creole. Job Conditions: Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.

Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, except if participating in an approved high school internship / co-op program. Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role. Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences.

Ability to work effectively, independently, and as part of a diverse workforce team (or supervise, if required). Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers. Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies.

Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection). Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings. Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service.

Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op. Additionally, interns / co-ops must have valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting pre-employment screenings / pre-boarding, working in their positions, and throughout the duration of their program

Disclaimers and Definitions: General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. Application Completion: It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Attachments do not substitute for application fields. The recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history. Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.

Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.

Work Eligibility: All employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States and on an unrestricted basis. The MBTA does not have an employer work sponsorship program. However, if you have unrestricted work authorization, or are sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply.

Further, all persons hired will require a U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting the position and employees will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview

Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request.

However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing. On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.

Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management. ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or hradaaa@mbta.com

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit mbta.com/careers-app-definitions. Intern / Co-Op Benefits: Employees taking part in an internship or co-op at the MBTA are eligible to receive accrued paid sick leave as well as a monthly transportation pass, based on the city from which the intern / co-op commutes to work, at no cost

However, no additional benefits are currently offered for interns or co-ops.


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