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Trainee Radio Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Radio Dispatcher Trainee

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$63.04K - $84.97K/yr

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experience or training as an emergency communications operator, dispatcher ... The Radio Dispatcher Trainee is taught to handle emergency situations requiring independent ...

Radio Dispatcher Trainee

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$63.04K - $84.97K/yr

Experience or training as an emergency communications operator, dispatcher or similar position ... The Radio Dispatcher Trainee is taught to handle emergency situations requiring independent ...

Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee will become certified and ... Operates radio system in accordance with set radio protocols and FCC regulations, notifying Train ...

Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee will become certified and ... Operates radio system in accordance with set radio protocols and FCC regulations, notifying Train ...

Demand Response Operator Trainee

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$26.76 - $35.82/hr

Demand Response Operator Trainee Job Code: Job Code: DROPRT Pay Range: $26.76 - $35.82 JOB TITLE ... Able to operate a radio to communicate with a Dispatcher. Skills in communicating effectively, both ...

Telecommunicator Trainee

Altoona, PA ยท On-site

$19.35/hr

... operating console equipped with multiple computer terminals, mapping and camera systems, radio ... Requirements Qualifications required of trainees are a high school diploma or GED; fluency in ...

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Trainee Radio Operator information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee radio operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee radio operator in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Radio Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Radio Operator, you need strong communication abilities, attention to detail, and foundational knowledge of radio transmission principles, often supported by at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio equipment, signal processing software, and sometimes completion of relevant technical training or certification (such as a Radio Operator Certificate) are typically required. Excellent teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate information transmission, operational safety, and effective coordination in critical or fast-paced environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a Trainee Radio Operator during the initial training period?

As a Trainee Radio Operator, one of the main challenges during the initial training period is quickly learning to operate complex communication equipment under pressure. Trainees must develop strong multitasking skills, as they often need to listen, process information, and transmit messages simultaneously. Additionally, adapting to shift work and maintaining high attention to detail during long hours can be demanding. However, comprehensive training and support from experienced team members help trainees build confidence and competence in these areas.

What are trainee radio operators?

Trainee radio operators are individuals who are learning to manage and operate radio communication systems under supervision. They typically work in sectors such as emergency services, maritime, aviation, or the military, where reliable communication is essential. Their training covers the use of radio equipment, communication protocols, message logging, and sometimes basic technical troubleshooting. The trainee period allows them to gain practical experience and knowledge before becoming fully qualified radio operators.

What do you need to be a radio operator?

To become a trainee radio operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and basic technical knowledge of radio equipment. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and training often includes learning radio protocols and safety procedures.

What is the difference between Trainee Radio Operator vs Radio Operator?

AspectTrainee Radio OperatorRadio Operator
CertificationsBasic communication or radio operation training, often a prerequisiteAdvanced certifications or licenses may be required depending on industry
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, controlled environments, on-the-job learningOperational settings, active communication roles in various industries
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning radio procedures, assisting senior operators, basic communication tasksManaging radio communications, ensuring clear transmissions, troubleshooting

The main difference between a Trainee Radio Operator and a Radio Operator is experience and responsibility level. Trainee Radio Operators are in training, focusing on learning procedures and gaining skills, while Radio Operators are fully responsible for managing communications in their respective fields.

More about Trainee Radio Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Radio Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Radio Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Radio Operator jobs? The most popular types of Radio Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Radio Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Radio Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Radio Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Radio Dispatcher Trainee

Radio Dispatcher Trainee

County of Orange

Santa Ana, CA โ€ข On-site

$63.04K - $84.97K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

CAREER DESCRIPTION RADIO DISPATCHER TRAINEE This recruitment is open to the public, on a continuous basis, until the needs of the department have been met. Please be advised this recruitment may close at 11:59 p.m. any day of the week and it is recommended that interested candidates apply immediately

RECRUITMENT/POSITION INFORMATION This recruitment is being conducted to establish an Open Eligible List to fill current and future Radio Dispatcher Trainee vacancies for the Orange County Sheriff's Department until the next recruitment. This list may also be utilized to fill the lower level classification of Sheriff's Call Taker. THE BUREAU The Emergency Communications Bureau is a 24/7 operation and is based at the Loma Ridge Emergency Operation Center.

The Bureau consists of Dispatch, and the Control One component of the County-wide Coordinated Communications System (CCCS). Our Emergency Call-Takers receive approximately 2,500 calls per day and our Radio Dispatchers ensure that Deputy Sheriffs are provided with the information necessary for them to serve our 13 contract city partners as well as all Orange County unincorporated areas. Emergency Communications Coordinators provide vital information to all Orange County law enforcement agencies and are responsible for coordinating radio traffic on county-wide emergency frequencies.

Click here to see OC Sheriff patrol areas. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experience or training as an emergency communications operator, dispatcher or similar position. Experience in the use of computers and various software programs.

Able to multi-task in stressful situations GENERAL DUTIES OF A RADIO DISPATCHER TRAINEE Radio Dispatcher Trainees under immediate supervision, receive on-the-job training in the techniques and methods of 9-1-1 call taking and radio dispatching involving emergency public safety operations. The Radio Dispatcher Trainee is taught to handle emergency situations requiring independent judgment as to course of action where unprecedented situations may arise. Upon successful completion of the required training as Radio Dispatcher Trainee and pass a one (1) year probation period, incumbents will promote to a Radio Dispatcher.

GENERAL DUTIES OF A SHERIFF'S CALL TAKER Receiving calls in the 24-hour 7/ day per week into the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems from citizens for emergency and non-emergency issues in adherence to departmental policies and procedures; Must be able to read maps and learn the geography and freeway systems; Obtain information from callers and determine type of action to achieve successful problem resolution; Interpreting maps ensuring calls for service are relayed to the appropriate governmental jurisdiction. WORK HOURS This is a full-time position and employees are required to work no less than forty (40) hours per week, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays and overtime may be required to meet operational staffing needs. Shifts are 10-12 hours in length and are as follows: 4am-4pm, 6am-6pm, 10am-10pm, 10am-8pm, 2pm-2am, 4pm-4am, 6pm-6am., but are subject to change with the needs of the department

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Some Knowledge of: The cities, highways, main streets, major buildings and geography of Orange County. Ability to: Learn to dispatch public safety equipment in a coordinated manner. Must react quickly, efficiently and calmly in an emergency situation, and to adopt an effective course of action.

Learn applicable rules and regulations, policies and procedures, including applicable Federal Communications Commission Regulations and their application. Prepare records and follow oral and written direction. Work under pressure and exercise sound judgment in emergency situations Handle a high volume of emergency calls with tact, good judgment, initiative and speed.

Learn to make immediate decisions and react in a quick, calm, controlled and effective manner in emergency situations. Elicit information from callers while simultaneously typing information into computer terminal. Speak clearly and concisely.

Comprehend, interpret and retain written and orally presented information. Learn to dispatch public safety services and/or equipment in a coordinated manner for multiple contract cities and unincorporated units on a single frequency. Work in a demanding fast paced environment Learn radio codes, penal codes and basic law enforcement practices.

Follow written and oral directions. Education and Experience: Any combination of education, training and/or experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities listed above. Click here to view the class spec/job description.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must not have been convicted of a felony or be on any form of probation, and must pass an extensive background investigation, including a psychological evaluation, to the satisfaction of the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner. Background screening includes completing of a Personal History Form, interview with a background investigator, fingerprinting and will include a polygraph test. Some of the areas considered in the background screening include prior convictions, traffic violations, drug use, credit problems, employment history, professional references, and education verification (i.e

degree, license, or official transcripts). PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS The County of Orange is committed to providing a means for applicants who may have a disability to identify areas in which they may request a reasonable accommodation. The following is a description of the physical and mental abilities that are customarily required to perform the essential job functions of this position.

Applicants are encouraged to contact the recruiter listed for any questions or request an accommodation during the testing/selection process. Physical and Mental Requirements: Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time and manipulate feet to operate radio microphone (foot pedal); manual dexterity to intermittently use hands, arms and shoulders; continuously extend neck upwards, downwards, or side-to-side to write or use a keyboard, use the radio and wear a headset at all times. Must have vision sufficient to see and read writing, view computer input using multiple computer monitors and phone buttons; speak and hear well in order to communicate clearly and be understood in person, over the phone and on the radio with exposure to noise of other radios, phones and voices.

Ability to independently reason and analyze data, and to reach objective conclusions; work under demanding conditions, deadlines and competing priorities; exercise good judgment in following procedures and directions in emergency situations, manage over-the-phone interactions with members of the public in emotionally charged situations; work cooperatively and interact appropriately with other individuals, including the general public. Environmental and Working Conditions: Must have the ability to work indoors in an office environment with changing priorities, deadlines and multiple assignments concurrently; deal with emotional and/or adverse public interactions on a daily basis while maintaining a calm demeanor. Must be able to work rotating shifts, weekends and holidays.

SELECTION PROCEDURES Applications must emphasize all the areas in which the applicant has expertise and accomplishments in the specific competencies related to the position, as applications will be screened to identify the most qualified candidates. Minimum Qualifications: The Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Human Resources screens all applications to identify the most qualified candidates for the position based on the skills required to meet the needs of the County. After the initial screening, the qualified candidates will be referred to the next step and notified of all further procedures applicable to their status in the recruitment.

Interactive Computer 90-minute Exam (Refer/Non-Refer): The exam consists of job-related questions. This is a standardized exam and there are no study guides available. Candidates need a passing score on this examination in order to continue in the selection process.

Only the most successful candidates will be referred to the next step. The exam will include the following: Decision Making Data Entry Call Summarization Cross Referencing Memory Recall-Numeric Prioritizing Map Reading Spelling Eligible List: After all procedures have been completed, Sheriff-Coroner Human Resources will establish an eligible list of qualified candidates who may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present or future vacancies. VETERANS EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings.

Please click here to review the policy. Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION EMAIL NOTIFICATION: Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account. NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person.

Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions. For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact Sarai Vaca at (714) 834-5716 or email at svaca@ocsheriff.gov EEO INFORMATION Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.