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911 Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pascua Yaqui Tribe, AZ

Communications Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$40K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Communications Operator, under direct supervision, responds to all 911 emergency and non-emergency incoming calls for Police, Fire, and EMS. The incumbent prioritizes the calls and dispatches ...

City of Visalia, CA

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

One year of 911 emergency dispatching experience with a law enforcement agency, within the last ... Communications Operators certified and assigned as "Communications Training Officers" will receive ...

City of Visalia

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description The City of Visalia Police Department is recruiting for Communications Operator ... One year of 911 emergency dispatching experience with a law enforcement agency, within the last ...

Pascua Yaqui Tribe

Communications Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$40K/yr

The Communications Operator, under direct supervision, responds to all 911 emergency and non-emergency incoming calls for Police, Fire, and EMS The incumbent prioritizes the calls and dispatches ...

City of Cookeville

Communications Operator I

Cookeville, TN · On-site

$41K - $53K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position answers 911 calls and receives and transmits messages by radio and telephone, often ... Communications Operator I Pay Grade: G Department: Police FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Shift ...

City of Navasota, TX

Communications Operator

Navasota, TX · On-site

$46K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Office & Communications Supervisor. * Directs: This is a non-supervisory position. * Other ... Works closely by 911, telephone, radio, teletype, computer, or in person with other city ...

City of Suffolk

Communications Operator - New

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$54K - $84K/yr

Answers Emergency 911 and non-emergency calls for service. Dispatches appropriate emergency ... Required Qualifications For Communications Operator (New Dispatcher): Graduation from high school ...

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How much do 911 communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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.

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.
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:

What job categories do people searching 911 Communications Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for 911 Communications Operator jobs are:

911 Communications Operator jobs near you
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.

Communications Operator

Pascua Yaqui Tribe, AZ

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary : $40,747.20 Annually
Location : Tucson, AZ
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2025-00079
Department: LAW ENFORCEMENT
Division: PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS
Opening Date: 02/13/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Summary
*A valid driver's license is required for this position. Please upload a copy to complete your application. Applications without this document will be considered incomplete.*
The Communications Operator, under direct supervision, responds to all 911 emergency and non-emergency incoming calls for Police, Fire, and EMS. The incumbent prioritizes the calls and dispatches emergency personnel to crime scenes, calls for assistance, accidents, request for emergency medical assistance, security officer assistance and all other service calls. The Communication Operator enters and maintains call records and any related documents in both electronic and paper format.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Answer emergency calls and dispatches appropriate personnel for response; determine when additional back up units are needed and checks for safety of personnel on call.
  2. Under direction from the Communications Shift Supervisor or Communications Manager may contact other agencies such as search and rescue, life flight support and other surrounding police agencies.
  3. Answer non-emergency call for stray or diseased animal pick up; arrest and transportation of individuals with warrants; and monitor fire and burglar alarms to determine appropriate personnel response.
  4. Maintain and documents all records of incoming and outgoing calls on Spillman CAD/RMS Systems, as well as, any other system that may be implemented by the police department.
  5. Provide police officers with requested information such as, but not limited to NCIC (National Crime Information Center) and ACIC (Arizona Crime Information Center) information, local information and general police bulletin information.
  6. Monitor radio transmissions for Police, Animal Control, Security, Detention, Fire Department and Probation, and local bus monitors.
  7. Operates all communications center equipment associated with answering, process, and dispatch emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
  8. Provide pre-approved, pre-arrival instructions, directions intended to enhance the safety of the caller and the field responders.
  9. Assign the appropriate dispatch priority to a call for service based on the criteria presented by the caller; determines the order dispatch of calls for service "holding."
  10. Work closely with alarm companies in reference to silent/panic alarms activated either at any tribal enterprise and/or government facility when required to do so.
  11. Monitor local alarm and camera systems, and dispatch Police and Security Officers, as well as, the Fire Department as needed to respond to alarms
  12. Monitors any police alerting systems
  13. Enter and retrieve information from ACJIS (Arizona Criminal Justice Information System), which may include but not limited to, license and registration confirmation, missing person's information, recovered and stolen vehicles, etc...
  14. Contact resources for Law Enforcement and Fire Department Staff as needed to accomplish any task they are assigned.
  15. Perform other duties of a similar nature or level as requested by supervisor or director.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Policies and procedures related to the Pascua Yaqui Communications Center;
  • Applicable federal, state, local and tribal laws, rules, and regulations;
  • Geographic and demographic layout of the Pascua Yaqui Reservation;
  • ACIC and NCIC information date process;
  • Proper application of radio communication codes and terms and the use of radio equipment;
  • Availability and use of auxiliary emergency resource, agencies, personnel, and services;
  • Yaqui culture, customs, resources and traditions and/or a willingness to learn.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Solicit needed information necessary to dispatch appropriate emergency personnel to a scene;
  • Make quick decision during priority calls, and able to work without supervision;
  • Reading and comprehending complex technical documents written in English;
  • Deal tactfully and effectively with a variety of people, often under stressful conditions;
  • Multitask necessary to work on different assignment and/or equipment at any given time;
  • Use the Pascua Yaqui Tribe's street map to locate addresses and streets;
  • Operate a base station two-way radio, computers, printers and telephones;
  • React quickly and calmly in emergency situations;
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and people of varying social background;
  • Read and understand oral and written policies, rules, instructions, and other materials of the Pascua Yaqui Fire Department;
  • Handle confidential information, which includes crime scene information and HIPAA covered medical issues.
  • Operate a variety of office equipment, including a computer and related software applications;
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with co-workers, supervisor, management, Council members, and the public. Have ability to sufficiently exchange or convey information and receive verbal and written work instructions.

Education, Certifications and Experience Required
High School Diploma or GED and completed the Pascua Yaqui Training program.
AND
  • Must type at least 35 words per minute;
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred, but not required;
  • Must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor, or any criminal offense involving moral turpitude in Arizona, or any Federal and State jurisdiction, where the commission of such a criminal offense would be a misdemeanor as defined by Arizona Revised Statutes, other than minor traffic violations within the previous one (1) year period;
  • Must not have been convicted of a crime or misdemeanor, or be under a court order, that would restricts the ability to possess firearms;
  • Must not have any felony convictions;
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona Driver's License.
Special Requirements:
  • This position will require the incumbent to work non-traditional hours, nights, and weekends;
  • Must have a FBI, BIA, Tribal Court, and an Arizona POST Clearance,, which includes a Level 1 Arizona Clearance Card. Failure to maintain a current clearance from the aforementioned agencies will result in termination.

The Pascua Yaqui Tribe provides 22 days of Paid Time Off which increases with years of service and 15 paid Holidays per year. We offer a comprehensive healthcare benefit package that surpasses or rivals the biggest organizations in Tucson. We encourage you to stay healthy by providing an onsite Wellness Center. Additionally, the Tribe offers a 401(k) Plan with a generous match in which you're immediately vested along with a profit sharing plan after one year of employment. Sworn police and and fire employees are eligible to make Pre-Tax and After-Tax contirbutions to the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement Systems ("PSPRS").
01
Do you have a High School Diploma or G.E.D?
  • No
  • Yes

02
Do you have a current valid Arizona Driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have current FBI, BIA, Tribal Court and an Arizona POST Clearance?
  • Yes
  • No

04
This position will require the incumbent to work non-traditional hours, nights, and weekends, are you willing to work non-traditional hours?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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