Public Safety Dispatcher Trainee — Entry-Level, Fast-Paced Impact

Skagit 911; Mount Vernon (WA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

Skagit 911 is hiring entry-level Public Safety Telecommunicators (PST) with no prior experience required. Trainees receive 12 months of on-the-job training under a Training Supervisor, with a four 10-hour day schedule during training and a transition to independent work in a dispatch specialty after completion.

The PST role serves as the critical link between public callers in crisis and emergency responders, requiring rapid decision-making, clear communication, and professional calm under

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• No felony convictions.
• No active criminal charges or warrants.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• Must pass a law enforcement background investigation, polygraph screening, hearing test, drug test and other hiring criteria.

Responsibilities

• Answer emergency and non-emergency calls via phone and text, gathering vital details quickly and accurately.
• Dispatch police or fire and medical using a CAD system.
• Provide life-saving instructions to callers before help arrives, including EMD protocols.
• Monitor and coordinate multiple radio channels, updating responder status.
• Support people in crisis with compassion and composure.
• Coordinate resources and communications between agencies during high-risk incidents.
• Operate and monitor telecommunications and public safety equipment in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Task switching

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CAD system

Job description

Skagit 911 is hiring entry-level Public Safety Telecommunicators (PST) with no prior experience required. Trainees receive 12 months of on-the-job training under a Training Supervisor, with a four 10-hour day schedule during training and a transition to independent work in a dispatch specialty after completion.

The PST role serves as the critical link between public callers in crisis and emergency responders, requiring rapid decision-making, clear communication, and professional calm under