| 911 PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM |
|---|
MAKE A DIFFERENCE. START YOUR CAREER. PAID 911 DISPATCHER INTERNSHIP
Looking for a career where your skills can make a real difference?
In the life of a 911 Dispatcher, no day is ever routine - one call may be a minor traffic accident, while the next is a frantic voice screaming for help. Using state-of-the-art equipment and extensive training, you will provide emergency dispatch services for the people of San Mateo County. You can be the difference in someone’s life.
GET PAID TO LEARN. GET TRAINED. BUILD YOUR CAREER.
Our internship gives college students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in emergency communications and public safety operations while receiving paid training.
You will learn from experienced professionals and develop skills in communication, technology, decision-making, teamwork, and emergency response.
| During the internship, you will gain experience with: | |
|---|---|
| 📞 911 emergency communications | 💻 Next Generation 911 technology |
| 🖥️ Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) | 🧠 Critical thinking and problem-solving |
| 📻 Public safety radio systems | 🤝 Professional communication and customer service |
| 🗺️ Mapping and GPS technology | 🚨 Police, Fire, and Medical dispatch operations |
| 🚑 Emergency Medical Dispatch | 📍 Automatic Location & Number Identification |
WHAT DOES A 911 DISPATCHER ACTUALLY DO?
911 CALLTAKERS are often the first point of contact for someone asking for help.
- Answer emergency and non-emergency calls
- Determine the location and nature of the emergency
- Obtain critical information from callers
- Prioritize calls based on urgency
- Provide instructions before responders arrive
- Screen and classify call classification
DISPATCHERS turn critical information into coordinated action.
- Send Police, Fire, and EMS resources
- Communicate with field personnel
- Track units and responder safety
- Update responding personnel as information changes
- Coordinate multiple resources during major incidents
It’s communication, coordination, technology, and service when people need help most. We are the first, critical link between someone experiencing an emergency and the help they need.
WHERE WILL YOU TRAIN?
San Mateo County Regional Operations Center in Redwood City, California is the county's largest dispatch center and the only Tri-Community (Police, Fire, Medical) center. Located in Silicon Valley, PSC features modern emergency communications systems, including a new Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
The facility includes:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows and natural light
- On-site employee gym
- Quiet Room
- Large, fully equipped employee kitchen
- State-of-the-art communication and dispatch systems
COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING
From day one, you’ll receive hands-on training and support designed to prepare you to confidently handle emergency calls
- Orientation — 1 Week
Learn our rules, policies, procedures, and workplace expectations. - Law Calltaking Academy — 5 Weeks
Learn the fundamentals of Public Safety calltaking: classification of calls, Versaterm CAD system, San Mateo County Geography, emergency response protocols, and field support functions. - On-the-Job Training — 8 Weeks
Work alongside a designated Communications Training Officer (CTO) handling live emergency calls. Receive coaching, feedback, and real-time guidance.
COMPLETE TRAINING: 3-4 MONTHS
- You are a paid employee throughout the entire training process.
- Training is conducted in person.
- OJT follows 10–12 hour shifts, mirroring your future work schedule.
- Trainers provide continuous coaching, feedback, and mentorship.
- Opportunity for continued employment
MORE THAN ANSWERING A PHONE
One call. One dispatcher. Potentially life-changing consequences.
PSC's leadership philosophy centers on:
Customer Service • Employee Well-Being • Excellence • Teamwork • Career Development
We provide ongoing training, open communication, and opportunities for employees to continue developing their careers.
| Career-development opportunities can include: | |
|---|---|
| Training Officer | Gang Task Force |
| Training Instructor | Cross Training |
| Tactical Dispatch | Committees (FIRE, LAW, & Wellness) |
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE INTERNSHIP?
BUILD EXPERIENCE → BUILD SKILLS → BUILD YOUR CAREER
After successfully completing the internship, you may have an opportunity to continue working with San Mateo County Public Safety Communications, depending on available positions and qualifications.
The skills and experience you develop can also be valuable when pursuing opportunities in public safety communications and other communications, logistics, and operations careers throughout America.
COUNTY OF SAN MATEO CAREER BENEFITS
Once hired with the County of San Mateo, employees receive a competitive salary and benefits package.
| Benefits include: | |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Choice of medical plans | ⏰ Shift differential |
| 🦷 Dental coverage | 💵 Overtime opportunities |
| 👁️ Vision coverage | 🌴 Paid time off |
| ❤️ Life insurance | 🎓 Educational incentives |
| 💳 Flexible Spending Accounts | ❤️ Employee assistance & wellness programs |
| 🏦 Pension plan | 📈 Promotional opportunities |