Emergency Communications Dispatcher Trainee

Northern California Chapter of APCO International; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 133,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential payment

Bilingual pay differential

$500 uniform allowance

Medical, dental and vision plans

City of San José retirement

Job summary

The San José Fire Department Communications is seeking a Public Safety Radio Dispatcher Trainee (PSRDT) for an entry‑level role in 9‑1‑1 emergency communications. The application period runs July 27, 2026 – August 17, 2026, with a base salary of $98,536.92 per year plus certification pay and non-pensionable compensation.

Upon successful training, there is potential promotion to the Public Safety Radio Dispatcher classification with a higher salary range. Lateral applicants are welcome.

Responsibilities

• PSRDs answer 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls for fire department and emergency medical assistance.
• PSRDs provide life‑saving instructions to callers until responders arrive, including CPR, choking rescue and childbirth guidance.
• PSRDs ensure responders are sent to the correct location with the necessary information for the emergency.
• PSRDs support responders throughout incidents, aiding incident commanders with resources, logistics and safety.
• The PSRDT position is the San Jose Fire Department’s entry‑level classification for those pursuing a career in 9‑1‑1 emergency communications.

Job description

The San José Fire Department Communications is seeking a Public Safety Radio Dispatcher Trainee (PSRDT) for an entry‑level role in 9‑1‑1 emergency communications. The application period runs July 27, 2026 – August 17, 2026, with a base salary of $98,536.92 per year plus certification pay and non-pensionable compensation.

Upon successful training, there is potential promotion to the Public Safety Radio Dispatcher classification with a higher salary range. Lateral applicants are welcome.