911 Communications Specialist

Renton, WA
King County Sheriff

Salary: $66,019.20 – $83,678.40 Annually

Closing Date: 9/6/2025

Essential Functions:

  • Receive, prioritize, and route emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and other agencies.
  • Gather information from calling parties and enter the type, location, and all required information for emergency calls into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System. Route calls for service to correct Dispatcher or appropriate emergency agency.
  • Assign response priority by determining whether immediate response could save lives or prevent crimes. Relay pertinent information via radio.
  • Retrieve information from State and National computer networks regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, stolen vehicles, restraining orders, and criminal histories. Relay information to Deputies via radio.
  • Record information and maintain required logs and event cards.
  • Manage multiple radio frequencies and radio communications simultaneously.
  • Communicate effectively with confused, upset, hostile, or distraught people by phone, while gathering the information necessary to send the correct responders and equipment to the scene.
  • Communication center employees may hear and need to respond to graphic descriptions of violence and/or injury.

Requirements:

  • You must be a United States citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident or DACA;
  • Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
  • You must have a high school degree or a GED.
  • To be considered for this position candidates must have a minimum of one (1) year experience providing a high level of customer service and have the aptitude and skills necessary, including but not limited to:
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to quickly shift from task to task.
  • Pass the 911 Dispatcher and Communications Officer technical exam with Public Safety Testing, as well as the typing exam. Once both of those exams are successfully completed those scores must be sent to KCSO in order to move forward in the process. The typing exam must be passed with 35 wpm and 90% accuracy.
  • Verify that you do not meet any of the Automatic Disqualifying Behavior requirements. To avoid a delay in the application process with our agency, you must complete a fully up to date, detailed and specific personal history statement (PHS) with Public Safety Testing (PST).
  • Ability to control personal emotional responses and act appropriately under high levels of stress.
  • Strong organizational skills, being flexibility and adaptable in changing situations.
  • Strong people skills and high level of customer service.
  • Ability to follow moderately complex oral and written instructions and to speak the English language clearly and quickly with a well-modulated voice.
  • Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to act quickly in accordance with established policy and procedures and maintain composure under pressure.
  • Effectively communicate in writing using English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.