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Trainee 911 Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assists in facilitating and delivering APCO, CRESA, Washington State PST Academy training programs including 911 Call Taking, Police Dispatch and Fire Dispatch * Partner with new trainees as needed ...

Assists in facilitating and delivering APCO, CRESA, Washington State PST Academy training programs including 911 Call Taking, Police Dispatch and Fire Dispatch * Partner with new trainees as needed ...

New

Assists in facilitating and delivering APCO, CRESA, Washington State PST Academy training programs including 911 Call Taking, Police Dispatch and Fire DispatchPartner with new trainees as needed ...

New

Dispatch Operator

Reston, VA · On-site

$29.26/hr

... dispatcher trainees * Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices ... Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center

... dispatcher trainees * Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices ... Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center

Telecommunicator (911)

Greenville, NC · On-site

$49K - $78K/yr

Work also includes dispatching units or representatives from fire departments, EMS departments, law ... Trainee Appointment: Must obtain required certifications within one year of employment. Equal ...

Telecommunicator (911)

Greenville, NC · On-site

$49K - $78K/yr

Work also includes dispatching units or representatives from fire departments, EMS departments, law ... Trainee Appointment: Must obtain required certifications within one year of employment. Equal ...

Telecommunicator (911)

Greenville, NC · On-site

$49K - $78K/yr

Work also includes dispatching units or representatives from fire departments, EMS departments, law ... Trainee Appointment: Must obtain required certifications within one year of employment. Equal ...

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Trainee 911 Dispatcher information

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How much do trainee 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee 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 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.

How long does it take to train to be a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Training to become a trainee 911 dispatcher typically lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the department's program and the complexity of the role. It includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and on-the-job training to develop communication, multitasking, and emergency response skills.

Is it hard to get hired as a trainee 911 dispatcher?

Getting hired as a trainee 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as it often requires passing written exams, background checks, and sometimes physical or psychological assessments. Candidates typically need strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and relevant certifications or training programs to improve their chances of employment.

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.

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.

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 training provided by the dispatch center. This training includes learning emergency communication protocols, using dispatch software, and often passing a certification exam; some agencies also require background checks and physical assessments.
More about Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most Trainee 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 Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee 911 Dispatcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee 911 Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

911 Telecommunicator Trainee

Louisville Metro Government

Louisville, KY • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Louisville Metro Government rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Starting Salary During Training: $22.31 Minimum Salary After Completion of Training & Promotion to a Communication Specialist Position: $24.48 Essential Functions: Participates in a 911 Telecommunicator training program Participates in a battery of exams and evaluations to determine suitability for the positions of Communication Specialist I U27 (911 Emergency Call Taker) and Communication Specialist II (911 Emergency Dispatcher) Examples of Duties UNDER GENERAL SUPERVISION Attends a training program & receives instruction in Call Classification, Caller Management, Computer-Aided Dispatch, Call Documentation, Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS), Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocols & dispatch techniques Participates in practical training and on-the-job training to apply course content Takes examinations to measure knowledge gained and progress made Performs related work Minimum Requirements Must obtain or possess a High School diploma or GED prior to final offer of employment. OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Must be a US Citizen Must be a minimum of 18 years of age Applicants who have used, bought, or sold marijuana within one year of application, or have used, bought or sold any controlled substance or narcotic drug without a prescription within six years of application will be disqualified Must not have been convicted of a felony Must submit to fingerprinting for criminal history check Misdemeanor convictions will be considered on an individual basis Must submit to a pre-employment polygraph test Must work a varied schedule Must submit to a pre-employment drug screening Must submit to a pre-employment audiogram Must submit to a pre-employment suitability test Must complete a job shadow prior to a conditional offer of employment SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Must be certified as a Telecommunicator in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and meet all academy requirements by the completion of the state-approved Telecommunications Academy PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS Meets regular and punctual attendance standards and any special needs of the position as determined by management, including mandatory overtime and performing related work Supplemental Information DETAILED JOB INFORMATION, IMPORTANT Job Overview - 911 Telecommunicator Trainee This position is a public safety position and involves taking critical 911 calls from the public which includes calls such as cardiac arrests of persons including children and infants, working fires with victims trapped inside, shootings and auto accidents. Non-emergent calls are also received such as persons wanting to know the correct time or asking what day their trash is picked up

If selected, the training academy is in Louisville and is not a live-in academy. The academy lasts approximately 8 weeks and is held primarily during daytime hours (i.e., 8am-4pm). Three weeks of on-shift training are also included in the middle of the academy

The academy requires a minimum passing score of 80% from multiple tests, practical exams and quizzes. Following successful completion of the academy, trainees must submit an application for Communications Specialist I, Communications Specialist II, or both. Trainees will then be paired with a trainer who will instruct and monitor the trainee's progress; this step takes an average of 8-10 months.

Following successful completion of this section, trainees will be rotated through all shifts and disciplines to complete the probationary period of one year. This is a non-union position that will promote into a union position, and all union employees pay fair share to the union whether or not they elect to be a member. Shift selection, vacation bidding and overtime are all covered under the union contract.

As shift selection is based on seniority, new hires typically start on evening or overnight shifts. It can take several years before a daytime shift becomes available. The Communications Center is a 24/7 operation which mandates employees work on holidays if it should fall on their rotation.

Overtime is mandatory and can extend shifts up to a total of 16 hours with little or no notice. Eligibility Lists Up to two eligibility lists can be created for this position, one Promotional list for internal candidates and one Open/Competitive list for external candidates. The Promotional list will be used first.

Once that list has been exhausted or expires, we will begin hiring off of the Open/Competitive list. Promotional and Open/Competitive Test Weights CritiCall Exam: 75% Training & Experience: 25% MINIMUM SALARY: $22.31 per hr Minimum Salary After Completion of Training & Promotion to a Communication Specialist Position: $24.48 SALARY PLAN / GRADE: NU/10 FILING DEADLINE: N/A - Posted until vacancies filled. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Please note that Training & Experience scores are based on the relevant (as determined by the hiring agency and Civil Service) training and experience from the last 10 years, as listed on your application and resume, as submitted

Any information that is unclear or that is not listed on your application and/or resume will not be considered in the calculation of the Training & Experience score. This also means that you should list your employment dates including the month and year (i.e. 02/2007 to 08/2010) of employment.


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