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911 Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Under general supervision, to answer emergency (911) and non-emergency phone lines, to maintain ... Essential Functions Serves as an Operator in the BPD Communications Center on a shift basis ...

Under general supervision, to answer emergency (911) and non-emergency phone lines, to maintain ... Essential Functions Serves as an Operator in the BPD Communications Center on a shift basis ...

911 Communications Officer

Roswell, GA ยท On-site

$21.66 - $34.65/hr

Answers emergency 911 and non-emergency voice and TDD calls for service; determines the nature of ... Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, equipment operating manuals, procedures, handbooks ...

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911 Communications Operator information

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$10

$23

$44

How much do 911 communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 communications operator in the United States is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 911 communications operator?

911 Communications Operators, also known as emergency dispatchers, are professionals responsible for receiving emergency calls and dispatching the appropriate emergency services such as police, fire, or medical assistance. They are trained to quickly assess situations, provide instructions to callers, and coordinate communication between first responders and the public. Their work is crucial for ensuring swift and effective responses to emergencies, often serving as the critical first link in the emergency response chain.

What are some common challenges faced by 911 communications operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

911 Communications Operators frequently encounter high-pressure situations, such as handling life-threatening emergencies and managing multiple calls simultaneously. New hires may find it challenging to remain calm under stress and to quickly prioritize tasks. Preparation includes developing strong multitasking and communication skills, familiarizing oneself with dispatch protocols, and engaging in scenario-based training exercises. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training help operators build resilience and confidence in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 911 communications operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 911 Communications Operator, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies requiring additional certifications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is typically necessary. Exceptional listening skills, calmness under pressure, and clear communication set top operators apart in this high-stress environment. These competencies ensure rapid, accurate responses to emergencies, directly impacting public safety and effective coordination with first responders.

Is being a 911 communications operator worth it?

911 communications operators play a critical role in emergency response by dispatching police, fire, and medical services. The job requires strong communication skills, the ability to handle high-stress situations, and often involves shift work, including nights and weekends. Compensation varies by location and experience, and the role offers a sense of public service and job stability.

What is the difference between 911 Communications Operator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

Aspect911 Communications OperatorEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, dispatcher certification often preferredHigh school diploma, dispatcher certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, police, fire, EMS agenciesEmergency call centers, police, fire, EMS agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesAnswer emergency calls, relay information, coordinate responseAnswer emergency calls, coordinate response, sometimes handle non-emergency calls
Industry UsageCommonly used term for the roleOften used interchangeably, but can imply broader dispatch duties

Both roles involve answering emergency calls and coordinating responses within emergency services. While the terms are often used interchangeably, '911 Communications Operator' specifically emphasizes handling 911 calls, whereas 'Emergency Dispatcher' may include broader dispatch responsibilities across various emergency services.

How much do 911 Communications Operators make?

911 Communications Operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000, though this can vary based on location, experience, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators or those in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials and overtime opportunities.

How much is the salary of a 911 communications operator?

The average salary for a 911 communications operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators or those in high-demand areas can earn higher wages. Many operators work shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays.
More about 911 Communications Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for 911 Communications Operator jobs?

Cities with the most 911 Communications Operator job openings:

What states have the most 911 Communications Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for 911 Communications Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various 911 Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,481 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

911 Communications Officer

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA โ€ข On-site

$45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Roanoke is seeking 911 Communications Officer candidates to dispatch police, fire, rescue and public works equipment and personnel usually in response to emergency situations and disseminates information to the general public and emergency services personnel. High school diploma or general education degree (GED) supplemented by continuing education with some computer classes. Bilingual, Spanish/English speakers encouraged to apply.

TO BEGIN THE TESTING PROCESS, APPLY AND SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION . Testing information will be shared via email. You are requested to complete the Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ - link found below), and bring with you to your interview if you pass the test.

If you do not bring the PHQ with you to your interview, there is a two week deadline from the interview date for submission. This is a fast-paced, 24/7 operation which requires that applicants are available to work any shift, including weekends, holidays and overtime when needed. 911 Communications Officer Written Testing is done ONLINE ONLY.

Applicants will receive an email link to the test on the following Wednesday morning which will remain viable until midnight on Sunday. Candidates will need a personal computer with an internet connection to take the exam. Use if an electronic mouse and headphones is advantageous.

In 3 business days you will receive notification upon passing or failing. Please review additional documents below: E-911 Hiring Process E-911 Personal History Questionnaire E-911 Disqualifying Information Typing Practice Test The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry.

Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment. By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is a non-exempt position.

Examples of Duties SUMMARY Dispatches police, fire, rescue and public works equipment and personnel usually in response to emergency situations and disseminates information to the general public and emergency services. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Receives complaints in person or by phone and elicits appropriate information to ensure a timely response Receives and transmits messages by radio and maintains radio log on shift work Monitors teletype traffic, sends teletype messages, and maintains teletype log Receives accident and ambulance calls Dispatches City vehicles and personnel where and when needed Takes telephone calls concerning complaints, passes information on to appropriate units and makes record of calls Maintains status boards relative to availability of emergency service units Receives and disseminates information thru the use of a data terminal linked to the Virginia Crime Information Network May provide assistance in the operating procedures and practices to new employees in an on-the-job training situation Dispatches and monitors pursuant to the "Emergency Medical Services System" SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE High school diploma or general education degree (GED) supplemented by continuing education with some computer classes. Supplemental Information LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Ability to prepare routine reports and correspondence. Ability to communicate orally and in writing. REASONING ABILITY Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form.

Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Must have police security clearance. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.

The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

This is a job description and not an individualized position description. A job description defines the general character and scope of duties and responsibilities of all positions in a job classification, but it is not intended to describe and does not necessarily list the essential job functions for a given position in a classification.