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Trainee 911 Dispatcher Jobs in Bothell, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee 911 Dispatcher information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do trainee 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee 911 dispatcher in Bothell, WA is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Trainee 911 dispatchers are individuals who are in the process of learning how to effectively answer emergency calls and coordinate the appropriate emergency response services, such as police, fire, or medical assistance. During their training, they work under the supervision of experienced dispatchers and receive instruction on communication protocols, emergency procedures, and the use of dispatch technology. The goal is to prepare them to handle high-pressure situations and provide critical support to callers in distress. Training typically includes classroom learning, simulations, and on-the-job experience. Upon successful completion, trainees become certified dispatchers responsible for managing real emergency calls.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee 911 dispatcher?

To thrive as a Trainee 911 Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication tools, and emergency protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that emergency calls are handled efficiently, accurately, and compassionately, which is vital for public safety and effective emergency response.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee 911 dispatchers during their initial training period?

Trainee 911 dispatchers often find the initial training period challenging due to the high-pressure nature of emergency calls and the need to make quick, accurate decisions. Balancing the demands of multitasking—such as listening, typing, and following protocols simultaneously—can be overwhelming at first. Additionally, learning to manage emotional stress while remaining calm and professional is a key hurdle. However, with practice and support from experienced team members, most trainees adapt and gain confidence in their abilities.

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

AspectTrainee 911 Dispatcher911 Dispatcher
CertificationsOften required or in trainingRequired certifications completed
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervisedActive emergency call handling
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning call procedures, shadowingResponding to emergencies independently

The main difference is that a Trainee 911 Dispatcher is in training and gaining experience, while a 911 Dispatcher is fully qualified and handling calls independently. Trainees focus on learning protocols, whereas dispatchers actively respond to emergencies in real-time.

Do you get paid while training to be a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Yes, trainee 911 dispatchers typically receive pay during their training period, which includes classroom instruction and on-the-job practice. Compensation varies by agency but is generally provided as part of employment, and trainees often learn skills such as radio communication and emergency protocols while earning wages.

How easy is it to get hired as a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Getting hired as a trainee 911 dispatcher typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a background check, and completing training programs. Candidates often need strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and may be required to pass a written exam or assessment. The hiring process can be competitive and varies by agency, but entry-level positions are generally accessible to qualified applicants.

How to train to be a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Training to become a trainee 911 dispatcher typically involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized emergency dispatch training that covers call handling, radio communication, and emergency protocols. Many agencies require completion of a training program or certification, such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), and on-the-job training to develop skills in multitasking, communication, and stress management.

What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA?

The most popular types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA?

For Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs in Bothell, WA are:

Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee 911 Dispatcher job openings in Bothell, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator LATERAL

Kitsap 911

Bremerton, WA • On-site

$35.21 - $48.42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary: $35.21 - $48.42 Hourly
Location : 911 Carver Street, Bremerton, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-0012
Group: Operations
Opening Date: 06/08/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 8:00 AM Pacific
Job Description
Kitsap 911 offers a generous benefits package, including:
Paid Vacation (80 Hours) and Sick Leave (96 Hours)
Free Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage for employees and dependents
Guaranteed Time Off
PSERS State Retirement Plan
For detailed information on the benefits we offer, go to
JOB DESCRIPTION
OVERVIEW
Have you ever considered a career in public safety? Kitsap 911 in beautiful Bremerton, WA is searching for Public Safety Telecommunicator Trainees. This position is the first step to becoming a 911 Dispatcher. Our high-performing agency offers employees continued learning opportunities and clear career advancement paths. Kitsap 911 is an award winning emergency dispatch center, providing exceptional public safety emergency communications services every day to our community. Kitsap 911 offers a generous benefit package including a competitive salary, medical, dental, vision, paid sick/vacation, PSERS retirement, and more!
Under the direction of the assigned supervisor, the Public Safety Telecommunicator Trainees learn to perform telecommunications work at Kitsap 911 facility in Bremerton, Washington. Public Safety Telecommunicators learn about reception and transmission of E9-1-1 (Enhanced 911 system) telephone and radio emergency medical, fire, and law enforcement service calls, as well as calls and complaints from the public. Training time occurs in both the classroom and on the dispatch floor.
Kitsap 911 is a critical-need 24/7 public safety agency that operates in all weather and emergency conditions. Kitsap 911 values our community's diversity and strives to reflect that diversity within our staff.
Kitsap 911 is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, HIV status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring any information in an alternative format may contact Human Resources at 360-307-5821 directly or utilize the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-833-6368.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
RESPONSIBILITIES
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks which may be found in positions of this class.)
Essential Job Functions:
  • Study the Standard Operations Procedures (S.O.P.) and appropriate manuals to acquire thorough knowledge of Kitsap 911 operations and procedures.
  • Communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in writing. Public

Safety Telecommunicators must be able to focus on the emergency at hand despite distractions and interruptions.
  • Quickly make accurate decisions affecting life and/or property.
  • Run license plate numbers and names as requested by officers.
  • Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Learn to answer and respond to E9-1-1 phone lines, numerous other phone lines, and text messages that deal with both emergency and routine events, obtain information for and assign priorities to calls for service, and refer calls to proper authority.
  • Listen effectively, with the ability to distinguish voices and other sounds through a computer system headset, and respond verbally in a clear concise manner.
  • Learn to operate computer aided dispatch system (CAD).
  • Maintain familiarity with major roads, streets, hospitals, schools, churches, buildings and other landmarks in Kitsap County.
  • Learn to operate Law Enforcement and Fire consoles, monitor, and dispatch and maintain location and status on all in-service and on-call law enforcement, fire, medical personnel and equipment. Handle off duty call-up and multiple responses.
  • Learn to respond to telephone requests and relay information between various public agencies using a variety of equipment including the WACIC/NCIC system.
  • Learn to answer all law enforcement officers' radio requests for warrant, vehicles, driver and records check information.
  • Learn to record information and maintain required logs, event cards and other forms during periods of computer aided dispatch down time.
  • Assign emergency response priority by determining whether immediate response could save lives or prevent crimes. Route calls for assistance to the correct Dispatcher or appropriate agency. Communicate with emergency agencies.
  • Learn to operate emergency TDD for hearing-impaired caller.
  • Appear promptly for work as scheduled.
  • Develop effective working relationships with peers, other staff, and user agencies.
  • Be organized, proficient at multi-tasking, and handle work assignments effectively and accurately despite interruptions and/or short timelines or deadlines.
  • Work a variety of rotating shifts. Kitsap 911 has day shifts, swing shifts, graveyard shifts and other variations that include irregular hours, weekends, holidays and mandatory overtime.

Job Requirements
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS AND DRUG USE
HIRING STANDARDS APPLY
Kitsap 911 is a consolidated 911/public safety dispatch center. As such, all Kitsap 911 employees have access to sensitive law enforcement information, critical public safety infrastructure, or both. Further, employees assigned to Kitsap 911's Operations (dispatch), Information Technology, and Administrative divisions who have access to the National Criminal Information Computer System must meet minimum criminal history standards established by the FBI and Washington State Patrol. Because of the sensitive nature of these positions and responsibility placed on the personnel, a thorough background investigation is completed. The background investigation includes reference checks, interviews, criminal history, driving history, drug screening, and other miscellaneous categories. Any attempt to conceal or misrepresent information solicited during the selection process will result in disqualification.
Criminal Conviction Standards
The following convictions disqualify the individual for employment, unless the Kitsap 911 Director determines that extenuating circumstances exist where the severity of the offense and the time that has passed would support a variance.
  • Felony conviction of any kind.
  • Misdemeanor conviction over the age of 21 involving use or possession of firearms in the commission of a crime, crime of violence (for example assault and domestic violence), sex offense, fraud.
  • Other than those identified above, misdemeanor convictions over the age of 21 may be considered on a case-by-case basis provided they did not occur within the last seven (7) years.
  • Misdemeanor convictions under the age of 21 may be considered on a case-by-case basis provided they did not occur within the last five (5) years.

For this purpose, the term "conviction" shall include any disposition adverse to the subject, except a decision not to prosecute, a dismissal, or acquittal; provided, however, that a dismissal entered after a period of probation, suspension, or deferral of prosecution or sentence shall be considered a disposition adverse to the subject.
Drug Possession/Usage
The following drug possession/use disqualifies the individual for employment, unless the Kitsap 911 Director determines that extenuating circumstances exist that would support a variance, considering the severity of the offense and the time that has passed.
"Possession" is defined as having actual physical control of any illegal (non-prescribed) drug for personal use or otherwise.
"Use" is defined as: trying, testing, or experimenting, which includes, but is not limited to tasting, smoking, injecting, absorbing, sniffing, or inhaling.
This standard applies to synthetic versions of Schedule 1-5 drugs:
  • Trafficking, selling, offering to sell, or transporting for sale of any illegal drugs, regardless of time frame.
  • Use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except use or possession of Cannabis/Hashish) over five (5) times combined.
  • Use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1 - 5 drugs (except use or possession of Cannabis/Hashish) in the last three (3) years.
  • Use or possession of Opiates or Heroin, regardless of time frame.
  • Injection of any non-prescribed drugs, regardless of time frame.
  • A pre-employment drug test positive for cannabis/hashish.
  • Drug use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs after submitting a application, while employed, or after having been employed by a law enforcement agency, (including military law enforcement), regardless of time frame.
  • Intentional inhalation (huffed) of any aerosol or substance (nitrous oxide, whippets, paint, glue, DXM, etc) in the last three (3) years.

Examples of schedule 1-5 drugs include, but not limited to:
Schedule 1 (RCW 69.50.204) - Examples could include: Codeine, Heroin, Morphine, Ecstasy, LSD, Peyote, GHB, Methaqualone, etc.
Schedule 2 (RCW 69.50.206) - Examples could include: Opium, Cocaine, Codeine, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Methadone, Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, Depressants, Hallucinogenic substances, etc.
Schedule 3 (RCW 69.50.208) - Examples could include: Stimulants, Depressants, Hallucinogens, Ketamine, Anabolic steroids, Hallucinogenic substances, etc.
Schedule 4 (RCW 69.50.210) - Examples could include: Barbital, Diazepam, Fludiazepam, Halazepam,Lorazepan, Phenobarbital, etc.
Schedule 5 (RCW 69.50.212) - Examples could include: Pyrovalerone, Lacosamid, Pregabalin and compounds containing limited amounts of narcotic drugs.
RECRUITMENT PROCESS
The following is a detailed description of the hiring process.
Kitsap 911 does not allow later arrivals to any part of the hiring process. If an applicant is late they may be disqualified.
The effectiveness of the Kitsap 911 hinges on the quality of the personnel it employs and the level of public trust in those personnel.
Emergency Communications work is a personal service of the highest order requiring dedication and professionalism in those individuals who are employed in this career field. Mistakes in judgment could cause irreparable harm to the citizens of Kitsap County and the law enforcement, fire and medical response personnel Kitsap 911 serves. In order to achieve this goal our recruitment process is lengthy and thorough and lasts approximately 4 months from job opening to start date.
In order to qualify for a position with Kitsap 911 or to be placed on the hiring register, an applicant must successfully pass each phase before being able to proceed to the next process.
Candidates may reapply after six (6) months if they do not pass testing, unless disqualified from further consideration for providing false or misleading information, withholding information, testing positive for illegal substances, cheating, or disruptive behavior. Candidates who do not pass the typing test can apply again at the next position posting, unless they are disqualified for any of the reasons stated above. CALEA standard 4.2.4c: Candidates May Reapply Unless Disqualified for Cause.
PHASE 1: SCREENING - Candidates are screened on the minimum qualifications and hiring standards after they apply. Candidates MUST meet the minimum qualifications and pass the hiring standards to be eligible to be considered for the position. Candidates that do not meet the minimum requirements will be sent notification.
PHASE 2: CRIMINAL HISTORY CHECK AND REFERENCE CHECK -A search of State and National Law Enforcement Databases which contain records of driver's license/history, arrests, convictions, warrants, restraining orders, sex offender registration and similar data. Candidates who do not meet Kitsap 911's "Background Standards" are disqualified from further consideration and may not reapply until within the timeline established for their violation. Kitsap 911 requires employment and personal references at the start of the hiring process. A standardized reference check form may be sent to each listed reference at any time during the process. Only include references you want us to contact early in the process on your reference form. Final candidates will be asked to provide additional references later in the process.
PHASE 3: TESTING - Tests are given to qualified candidates only. Cutoff scores are predetermined.
1) Typing Test - A link to an online typing test will be sent to qualified applicants. Candidates must score a minimum of 35 WPM, including speed and accuracy, for Public Safety Telecommunicator positions, and email a PDF of their result to HR@kitsap911.org. Once a candidate provides proof of a passing score to Kitsap 911 HR, they will be invited to continue the online testing process.
2) National Testing Network (NTN) - Applicants will receive notification via email to schedule their tests with NTN. Typing Test - Candidates will take a second typing test to confirm their typing speed and accuracy. Ergometrics Test - The Ergometrics test is used to evaluate whether a candidate possesses the knowledge, skills, abilities, traits, and characteristics necessary to be successful in the position. This test will be proctored online or in person at a NTN testing site. Kitsap 911 provides one free test per applicant, if you reschedule for any reason you will be charged for the exam.
3) Select Advantage - Applicants who have successfully passed NTN testing will receive a notification via email with a link to take the test. The Select Advantage test identifies the

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