Public Safety Dispatcher Trainee - 24/7 Emergency Ops

Santa Cruz Regional 9-1-1; California; On-site; USD 72,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental and Vision coverage

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Santa Cruz Regional 9-1-1 seeks a Trainee Dispatcher to join our 24/7 emergency communications team. Under supervision, you will learn to operate the 9-1-1 call handling system, dispatcher software, and radio consoles, while supporting police, fire, and medical responders during critical incidents.

Education is a high school diploma; no prior work experience required. You must be able to work in the United States, reside in eligible counties, and obtain CPR/First Aid certification.

Qualifications

• Must be at least eighteen (18) years old.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Residence in Santa Cruz, San Benito, Santa Clara, San Mateo, or Monterey counties unless GM approves an exception.
• Training to operate 9-1-1 dispatch systems and related technology.
• Trainee role prepares for Public Safety Dispatcher II within a 12‑month probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Answers non-emergency and emergency lines, gathering essential information.
• Dispatches appropriate emergency resources to incidents.
• Maintains accurate records of calls and actions for state and federal databases.
• Interacts with the public with clear communication and empathy in high-stress situations.
• Learn to operate multiple computer systems, CAD, mapping, and radio consoles.

Skills

Active listening

Communication

Stress tolerance

Teamwork

Decision making

Public safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Public safety dispatch system

Radio consoles

Job description

Santa Cruz Regional 9-1-1 seeks a Trainee Dispatcher to join our 24/7 emergency communications team. Under supervision, you will learn to operate the 9-1-1 call handling system, dispatcher software, and radio consoles, while supporting police, fire, and medical responders during critical incidents.

Education is a high school diploma; no prior work experience required. You must be able to work in the United States, reside in eligible counties, and obtain CPR/First Aid certification.