Emergency Communications Dispatcher III – 911 Public Safety

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing bonus

Paid training academy

Job summary

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office seeks a Communications Operator III (Call Taker) to answer 9-1-1 and non-emergency lines, collect and relay critical information, and support responders. Training begins with a 6-week academy, plus 1 week EMD/EFD and 16 weeks field training, with 8-hour shifts during the academy and 12-hour shifts after.

Eligible applicants receive a $2,000 signing bonus if submitted by Sept 30, 2026, with $1,000 after field training and $1,000 after one year of service.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Associate's Degree or pass Wonderlic Basic Skills Test.
• Complete the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Training Program and pass Florida Certification within 11½ months.

Responsibilities

• Answer emergency and non-emergency telephones and relay information accurately.
• Maintain professional demeanor and multi-task under stress.
• Work as part of a team to support responders and ensure public safety.

Skills

Desire to be helpful

Think clearly under pressure

Speak clearly

Inquiring mind

Geography knowledge

Customer service

Courtesy

Public safety mindset

Education

High School Diploma

Associate's Degree or equivalent

Wonderlic Basic Skills Test

Job description

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office seeks a Communications Operator III (Call Taker) to answer 9-1-1 and non-emergency lines, collect and relay critical information, and support responders. Training begins with a 6-week academy, plus 1 week EMD/EFD and 16 weeks field training, with 8-hour shifts during the academy and 12-hour shifts after.

Eligible applicants receive a $2,000 signing bonus if submitted by Sept 30, 2026, with $1,000 after field training and $1,000 after one year of service.