Telecommunicator Trainee

Buncombe County•Asheville, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Buncombe County Public Safety Communications Department is hiring for Telecommunicator Trainees. Candidates or employees who do not meet the minimum qualifications for Telecommunicator can be hired as Telecommunicator Trainees at a pay rate of $19.66 per hour. The employee will remain in “trainee” status and will continue to receive trainee pay until the hiring manager certifies that the employee is qualified to assume the full responsibilities of the position. At that time, they will receive a salary adjustment to the minimum of the Telecommunicator pay range, which is currently $21.04 per hour. This role is for individuals who stay steady under pressure, listen deeply, and care about helping others. A background in emergency services is not required. People from all walks of life who are committed to supporting their community with empathy and professionalism are welcome. As a Telecommunicator Trainee, you will be the first point of contact for people experiencing some of the hardest moments of their lives. Your voice will provide guidance, reassurance, and connection. You will gather essential information, coordinate emergency responses, and help callers feel heard and supported. The workplace is trauma-informed and prioritizes safety, support, and continuous learning. You’ll never be left alone to figure it out. We’re looking for individuals with clear and compassionate communication, patience, the ability to stay grounded during stressful situations, a willingness to learn new skills and receive feedback, and emotional resilience. As a Telecommunicator Trainee, you'll have access to a structured, hands-on training program designed for people with no previous experience. Supportive supervisors and peer mentors will provide regular check-ins focused on wellbeing and growth. You'll also have access to wellness resources and confidential support programs, as well as a team culture grounded in respect, calm communication, and shared purpose.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
A minimum of one (1) year of experience as a Public Service call taker, dispatcher or telecommunicator; or a current Buncombe County Call Taker that has completed all the trainings under that classification.
Clear and compassionate communication
Patience and the ability to stay grounded during stressful situations
Willingness to learn new skills and receive feedback
Emotional resilience
Knowledge of rules, regulations, and procedures, including safety procedures, such as CPR and first aid.
Knowledge of telecommunications systems, which may include transmission, broadcasting, and switching systems, and computerized databases, including teletype operations and procedures.
Knowledge of basic dispatch codes, as well as standard abbreviations and industry terminology commonly used by emergency medical services and law enforcement agencies.
Knowledge of the geographical layout of the County as to location of streets, important buildings, and other landmarks.
Ability to use logic and reasoning to reach conclusions and approaches to problems.
Ability to use judgment and decision-making skills to evaluate situations, establish priorities, and resolve matters.
Ability to work in stressful situations.
Ability to actively listen and communicate effectively through clear speech and hearing.
Ability to establish priorities and pass on information as needed.
Ability to elicit information necessary for proper dispatching from persons who may be distressed.
Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations.
Ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and professionally.
Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
Ability to maintain files, records, and reports.

Responsibilities

Receive emergency and non-emergency calls from the public through the emergency telephone system, obtaining pertinent information from callers to determine the nature and location of the emergency.
Prioritize and dispatch calls for service for all disciplines.
Receive and respond to radio requests from emergency response units and monitor and maintain location and status information.
Operation of computer aided dispatch system, and communication with responding units via radio.
Maintain accurate and timely records.
Provide information or referral options to the public as requested.
Perform other related duties as assigned.