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911 Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Visalia

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA

$63K - $79K/yr

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

$38K/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 ...

Valley County

911 Communications Lead

Cascade, ID

$27.77 - $37.03/hr

Typical Duties & Responsibilities The Communications Lead plays a dual role as both an expert operator and a team mentor. A significant portion of this position involves assisting in the supervision ...

Valley County, ID

911 Communications Lead

Cascade, ID · On-site

$27.77 - $37.03/hr

Typical Duties & Responsibilities The Communications Lead plays a dual role as both an expert operator and a team mentor. A significant portion of this position involves assisting in the supervision ...

City of Visalia, CA

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$63K - $79K/yr

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 ...

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911 Communications Operator information

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How much do 911 communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 are 911 Communications Operators?

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.

What disqualifies you from being a 911 dispatcher?

Disqualifications for a 911 communications operator typically include a criminal record, especially for serious offenses, poor communication skills, inability to pass background checks, and certain medical or hearing impairments. Candidates must also meet age requirements and often need to pass a drug test and psychological evaluation before employment.

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.

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:
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911 Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,481 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Police Communications Operator II - Lateral

City of Carlsbad California

Carlsbad, CA

$49K - $64K/yr

Other

Posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Please note: this is a LATERAL opportunity that requires previous experience as a 911 public safety dispatcher. Please do not apply if you do not possess the experience required outlined in the "Experience & Education" section. For an inside look at Communications, Operator, Police, Communication, Operations, Police Officer, Business Services

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