Emergency Communications Trainee - Public Safety Dispatcher

About This Role

This role is a paid position as an emergency communications trainee, where you will learn to be the first point of contact for callers seeking help, support, or emergency services. It suits a motivated individual who is willing to learn and develop telecommunicator skills in a fast-paced, meaningful career where communication skills, focus, and a willingness to learn can make a life-saving difference.

Responsibilities

• Answer and manage multi-line phone systems with professionalism, strong phone etiquette, and calm conflict-management skills
• Receive, evaluate, and prioritize emergency calls using established protocols, including medical and law-enforcement triage procedures
• Use GIS and GPS tools to accurately identify caller and incident locations
• Dispatch law enforcement, fire, and medical units promptly and accurately
• Enter data, maintain detailed logs, and prepare reports with accuracy under pressure
• Relay critical information to first responders, law enforcement, medical teams, and the public
• Assess evolving situations and determine the most effective response strategies
• Monitor multiple information sources: phone lines, radio channels, mapping software, and data entry screens simultaneously
• Communicate while typing: enter detailed information in real time while speaking with callers or responders
• Prioritize rapidly: determine which calls or tasks require immediate action when several events occur at once
• Stay calm under pressure: maintain composure during emotionally intense or fast-moving situations

Requirements

• No prior experience required; all essential skills are taught through comprehensive on-the-job training
• Willingness to learn emergency communication procedures and develop professional dispatching skills
• Strong typing skills and attention to detail support accurate documentation
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and focused during stressful or high-pressure situations
• Familiarity with GIS, GPS, or multi-line phone systems is a plus but not necessary

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Important Details

• Schedule: 12-hour shifts (7 AM – 7 PM; 7 PM – 7 AM)

Application Process

• Complete the official Marion County Employment Application, which includes: personal information and contact details; work availability (including day, afternoon, midnight, and weekend options); employment history (10-year minimum); education and skills; references (no relatives); authorization for background checks; criminal records check form (required for Central Communications positions)