Public Safety Telecommunicator Trainee - 911 Dispatch

St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners; Saint Augustine (FL); On-site; USD 44,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is seeking a Communications Officer to handle 911 and non-emergency calls, dispatch fire and medical units, and operate CAD systems.

The role requires APCO EMS Dispatch certification and a Florida Telecommunicator certification along with a valid Florida driver’s license. Ideal candidates maintain strong English communication, situational awareness, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Apprenticeship/internship experience acceptable.
• APCO Emergency Medical Dispatch certification required.
• State of Florida Public Safety Telecommunicator certification required; trainee option up to 1 year.
• Valid Florida driver’s license and endorsements as needed for vehicle operation.

Responsibilities

• Answers all incoming Fire Rescue Communications calls, including 911; processes calls per SOP and county policy.
• Dispatches fire and medical apparatus and marine rescue units.
• Operates Computer Aided Dispatch to log events and times.
• Monitors field units and accounts for apparatus on scene.
• Monitors additional radio channels (law enforcement, fire, animal control).
• Provides information, resources, and referrals to the public; assists during weather events and disasters.
• Maintains full-time presence on the job; performs related duties.

Skills

Emergency comms procedures

CAD systems

Computer literacy

Geography knowledge

Public safety terminology

Analytical skills

Emergency response

Report writing

Oral & written communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

APCO Emergency Medical Dispatch certification

Florida Public Safety Telecommunicator certification

Florida driver’s license

Tools

CAD software

Telephone systems

Radio equipment

Job description

St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners is seeking a Communications Officer to handle 911 and non-emergency calls, dispatch fire and medical units, and operate CAD systems.

The role requires APCO EMS Dispatch certification and a Florida Telecommunicator certification along with a valid Florida driver’s license. Ideal candidates maintain strong English communication, situational awareness, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.