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911 Communications Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

911 Communications Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$10

$22

$42

How much do 911 communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 communications operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.95 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 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.

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 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 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 agency size. Many operators work in a 24-hour shift environment and may receive additional benefits such as overtime pay and certifications.

What qualifications do you need to be a 911 Communications Operator?

To become a 911 Communications Operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and multitasking skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Some agencies may require certification in emergency dispatch or related training, and proficiency with radio and computer systems is often necessary.

What are popular job titles related to 911 Communications Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For 911 Communications Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 911 Communications Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for 911 Communications Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Infographic showing various 911 Communications Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,553 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Communications Officer 1

State of Louisiana

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$2.7K - $5.0K/mo

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


State Of Louisiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary : $2,784.00 - $5,009.00 Monthly
Location : Lake Charles, LA
Job Type: Classified
Job Number: 225292
Department: Lake Charles Harbor & Terminal District
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 11:59 PM Central
About this Job
TO ACTIVELY CREATE, FACILITATE AND ENHANCE BENEFITS FROM MARITIME TRANSPORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS, STAKEHOLDERS, AND THE CITIZENS OF SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA
Overview of the Role
Serves as the Communications Officer (Dispatcher) for the Lake Charles Harbor & Terminal District (Port of Lake Charles) and the Harbor Police Department. The communications officer operates the Security Center section that is equipped with the latest technology. All Communications Officers are trained in the operation of the CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch), police radio system, and the state computer system. Involves crucial responsibilities within emergency response operations. Operating in a 911 communications capacity, Communications Officers use radio systems to connect with Police Officers, Sergeants, and the Police Major. All communication traffic is meticulously recorded into the Computer-Aided Dispatch Software (CAD). Acts as the point of contact with the general public and other law enforcement agencies seeking assistance for emergencies, accidents, complaints, etc. Maintains security of facilities and grounds under local, state, and federal laws, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) regulations; Assists the District's Harbor Police Department, an armed, uniformed, and commissioned police force
About this position:
Duties include: Monitoring closed-circuit television in the Security Command Center; Documenting visitors; Checking credentials for entry; Dispatching calls using radio systems and computer-aided dispatch; Acting as point of contact in emergencies, accidents, and complaints; Maintaining security of facilities.
Minimum Qualifications
Six months of experience in transmitting and receiving messages by radio or in administrative services; OR
Six months of training in a business or clerical-related curriculum in a business school or technical institute; OR
Fifteen semester hours of college training.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
All persons appointed to this job will be required by the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and Louisiana State Police Terminal Operator Certification Program Guidelines to meet the terminal operator certification/re-certification requirement within six months of employment.
An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or who is under indictment on a felony charge will be disqualified until relief from the disabilities imposed by state and federal laws is granted.
Job Specification
The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.
Job Duties and Other Information
Job Duties:
  • 20% Reports directly to the Police Sergeants on shift and the Police Major or supervisor of a higher rank. Assigned to the Communications Unit of the Harbor Police Department. Serves primarily as a communications radio/computer dispatcher in constant communication with law enforcement officials, parking and traffic officials, and civilians.
  • 20% Provides constant communication services, and accesses sensitive information for the department, other agencies, or authorized personnel. Operates/monitors multiple radios, computers, and telecommunications equipment specific to the Harbor Police Department. Uses surveillance camera system for specific, port-wide, and satellite locations to assist responding units. Monitor PortVision (vessel tracking system), Milestone (surveillance system), C-Cure 9000(secure facility door & gate system), and marine radio.
  • 20% Maintains proficiency through training from the Terminal Agency Coordinator. Utilizes information from NCIC/local/state/federal agencies. Monitors fire/burglar alarms, status of field personnel by radio, dispatches personnel to related situations. Conducts confidential inquiries into highly sensitive computerized files.
  • 20% Routinely accesses the Radio System and RMS/CAD. Receives, analyzes, prioritizes, and initiates response to complaints/incidents requiring immediate attention. Receives information by telephone/teletype/ 2-way radio, and transmits to appropriate personnel. Maintain and properly secure records and update shift logs
  • 10% Receives/transmits information on motor vehicle accidents/fatalities/hazardous conditions. Processes driver's license ID, motor vehicle title/registration ID, wanted/missing persons ID, Page 3 of 3 stolen property ID, criminal history info, and wrecker/ambulance services. Assists walk-ins on emergency medical/police situations, complaints, directions, lost/found, report requests, background, and other.
  • 10% Assist with traffic control/direction for special events on port property. Monitor and assist contract security. Sign in/out TWIC Escorts. Performs other duties as needed or assigned (including but not limited to District grounds foot or vehicle patrols; security checks of buildings and grounds; securing minor disturbances and situations)

Position-Specific Details:
Appointment Type: Probational
Career Progression: This position may be filled as a Communication Officer 1
Louisiana is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.
How To Apply:
No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.
To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.
*Information to support your eligibility for this job title must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.
Contact Information:
For further information about this vacancy, contact:
Jo Ellen Elliot
Lake Charles Harbor & Terminal District
337-493-3522
jelliott@portlc.com
Louisiana State Government represents a wide variety of career options and offers an outstanding opportunity to make a difference through public service. With an array of career opportunities in every major metropolitan center and in many rural areas, state employment provides an outstanding option to begin or continue your career.
As a state employee, you will earn competitive pay, choose from a variety of benefits, and have access to a great professional development program:
Insurance Coverage More information can be found at
Parental Leave - Up to six weeks paid parental leave
More information can be found at
Holidays and Leave - State employees receive the following paid holidays each year:
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day,
  • Mardi Gras,
  • Good Friday,
  • Memorial Day,
  • Independence Day,
  • Labor Day,
  • Veteran's Day,
  • Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

***** Additional holidays may be proclaimed by the Governor
State employees earn sick and annual leave which can be accumulated and saved for future use. Your accrual rate increases as your years of service increase.
Retirement- State of Louisiana employees are eligible to participate in various retirement systems (based on the type of appointment and agency for which an employee works). These retirement systems provide retirement allowances and other benefits for state officers and employees and their beneficiaries. State retirement systems may include (but are not limited to):
  • Louisiana State Employees Retirement System (). LASERS has provided this video to give you more detailed information about their system
  • Teacher's Retirement System of Louisiana (),
  • Louisiana School Employees Retirement System (), among others

01
Do you have at least 6 months of clerical experience or experience in receiving and transmitting messages via radio systems?
  • Yes
  • No

02
AD: Acting Decisively - How well do you make timely, confident decisions using sound reasoning?
  • I avoid making decisions, rely on others, and struggle to stay confident under pressure.
  • I make decisions with help, second-guess myself, and tend to stick with familiar methods.
  • I make timely decisions, take responsibility for the outcome, and explain my reasoning clearly.
  • I make bold decisions, adapt quickly, and help lead others through uncertainty.

03
AD: Acting Decisively - Explain your selection by providing specific examples from your experience. Tip: Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to explain how you have demonstrated this competency. Examples from work, military service, volunteering, education, or other life experiences are all valid.
04
DA: Demonstrating Accountability - How well do you take responsibility for your actions, results, and performance?
  • I avoid responsibility, deliver poor work, and resist feedback.
  • I take ownership when prompted and meet basic expectations.
  • I own results, meet standards, and respond to feedback professionally.
  • I drive high performance, prevent issues, and model accountability.

05
DA: Demonstrating Accountability - Explain your selection by providing specific examples from your experience. Tip: Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to explain how you have demonstrated this competency. Examples from work, military service, volunteering, education, or other life experiences are all valid.
06
DPf: Displaying Professionalism - How well do you meet expectations for workplace behavior, communication, and responsibility, especially when under pressure?
  • I miss deadlines, act unprofessionally, or avoid responsibility for my actions or workplace expectations.
  • I meet basic standards for work quality, behavior, and communication when given occasional reminders or support.
  • I meet expectations, follow policies, and communicate respectfully and clearly-even in difficult situations.
  • I model professionalism and ethics, adapt under pressure, and build trust through consistent and responsible behavior.

07
DPf: Displaying Professionalism - Explain your selection by providing specific examples from your experience. Tip: Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to explain how you have demonstrated this competency. Examples from work, military service, volunteering, education, or other life experiences are all valid.
Required Question

What State Of Louisiana employees say

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State of Louisiana logo

About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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