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911 Dispatcher Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

Reston, VA · On-site

$29.26/hr

Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center * Excellent phone skills * Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties * Knowledge of a ...

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$29.26/hr

Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center * Excellent phone skills * Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties * Knowledge of a ...

Erickson

SES Dispatcher

Bethesda, MD

$19 - $24/hr

Prior experience in 911 call-taking/dispatching or Emergency Medical Services preferred * Ability to maintain composure and situational awareness while dealing calmly with emergencies, ambiguity, and ...

New

Erickson Senior Living

SES Dispatcher

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Prior experience in 911 call-taking/dispatching or Emergency Medical Services preferred * Ability to maintain composure and situational awareness while dealing calmly with emergencies, ambiguity, and ...

Erickson

Emergency Services Dispatcher

Ashburn, VA

$20 - $24/hr

Prior experience in 911 call-taking/dispatching or Emergency Medical Services preferred * Ability to maintain composure and situational awareness while dealing calmly with emergencies, ambiguity, and ...

Henry's Wrecker Service

Dispatcher

Falls Church, VA

Dispatcher Department: Operations / Dispatch Reports To: Dispatch Manager / Operations Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary Henry's Wrecker Service is seeking a dependable and detail ...

MV Transportation

Dispatcher

Fairfax, VA

MV Transportation is seeking a Dispatcher who works to direct the day-to-day route operations and report to the Dispatch Supervisors. This work is done in compliance with the procedures defined by ...

Henry's Wrecker Service

Dispatcher

Falls Church, VA · On-site

Dispatcher Department: Operations / Dispatch Reports To: Dispatch Manager / Operations Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary Henry's Wrecker Service is seeking a dependable and detail ...

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911 Dispatcher information

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How much do 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 dispatcher in Reston, VA is $26.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a 911 dispatcher?

To become a 911 dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete emergency dispatch training, which includes learning radio procedures and crisis communication. Some agencies require certification from the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) or similar organizations. Strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems are also important.

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

To thrive as a 911 Dispatcher, you need excellent multitasking abilities, strong decision-making skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with specialized training in emergency communications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and emergency protocols is crucial. Outstanding communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure timely, accurate emergency response and effective coordination between callers and first responders, which is critical for public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by 911 Dispatchers, and how are they typically addressed within the team?

911 Dispatchers often face high-pressure situations involving life-or-death emergencies, which can naturally lead to stress and emotional fatigue. Many dispatch centers address these challenges by providing comprehensive training, ongoing support, and access to counseling services. Team collaboration is essential, as dispatchers regularly debrief with supervisors and colleagues to process difficult calls and share best practices. Additionally, rotating shifts and scheduled breaks help ensure dispatchers maintain focus and resilience during demanding periods.

What Are the Job Duties of a 911 Dispatcher?

A 911 dispatcher takes emergency calls from the public and communicates with the proper authorities to dispatch the appropriate response personnel. In this role, your duties include finding out the nature of the emergency, getting the address from the caller, and sending the information to the relevant department. For example, if a call for a fire emergency comes in, you relay that information to the fire department and ensure that a fire crew responds to the scene. Similarly, if there is a medical emergency, you contact the EMTs who are in that geographic area. In smaller towns and rural areas, a dispatcher might work alone, while in larger cities, you often work in a larger team.

What are 911 dispatchers?

911 dispatchers are emergency communication specialists who answer calls from the public in urgent situations such as accidents, crimes, fires, or medical emergencies. They gather critical information from callers, determine the type of assistance needed, and dispatch the appropriate emergency responders like police, fire, or medical personnel. Dispatchers must remain calm under pressure, provide instructions to callers, and coordinate communication between emergency teams. Their work is essential in ensuring a quick and effective response to emergencies, often making a significant difference in the outcome.

What is the difference between 911 Dispatcher vs Emergency Dispatcher?

Aspect911 DispatcherEmergency Dispatcher
CertificationsEmergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), CPR certification often requiredSimilar certifications, including EMD and CPR, are common
Work EnvironmentPublic safety agencies, emergency call centersPublic safety agencies, emergency call centers
Job RoleAnswering emergency calls, dispatching police, fire, EMSAnswering emergency calls, dispatching various emergency services
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, fire departments, EMSLaw enforcement, fire departments, EMS

Both 911 Dispatchers and Emergency Dispatchers handle emergency calls and dispatch services. The terms are often used interchangeably, but '911 Dispatcher' typically refers specifically to those working in 911 call centers, while 'Emergency Dispatcher' can be a broader term covering various emergency response roles. Certifications and work environments are similar, making them closely related roles within public safety agencies.

How much do you make being a 911 dispatcher?

The average salary for a 911 dispatcher in the United States ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level dispatchers typically start at the lower end, while experienced dispatchers or those in high-cost areas may earn higher wages. Many dispatchers work in a 24/7 environment and require certification in emergency communication procedures.

How many years does it take to become a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training that can last from a few weeks to several months. Some agencies may require additional certifications or on-the-job training, but the overall process usually takes less than a year to become fully qualified.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as it requires passing written exams, background checks, and often completing specialized training or certification. Candidates should have strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and typically need to meet specific employment criteria set by the hiring agency.
More about 911 Dispatcher jobs
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What job categories do people searching 911 Dispatcher jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for 911 Dispatcher jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for 911 Dispatcher jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most 911 Dispatcher job openings:
911 Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Dispatcher job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,202 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Dispatch Operator

Constellis

Reston, VA • On-site

$29.26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 113 rated security

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW

Monitor Federal Protective Services and contract guard radio traffic, receive emergency and non-emergency phone calls, and monitor security alarm systems in Federal Buildings for all US states and territories. Coordinate the appropriate response, to include sending and receiving audible and distinguishing voice communications via radio and telephone systems.

PAY TRANSPARENCY/COMPENSATION

Hourly Rate $29.26.

Health and Welfare $5.09/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Monitor FPS and radio traffic while coordinating the appropriate responses to emergency and non-emergency situations performing duties such as:
    • Communicating audio messages via radio and telephone
    • Coordinating law enforcement and public safety personnel activities
    • Transferring public safety information
    • Answering questions and updating client records
  • Think and act quickly, calmly, and accurately in emergency situations and under stressful circumstances.
  • Log all calls in database including required details of each call
  • Keep additional detailed logs to maintain accurate records of alarm use, ensure officer safety, and allow for precise and efficient communications among coworkers
  • Operate multi-channel radio and telephone dispatch equipment
  • Access Federal, State, and local databases and maintain compliance regulations and procedures
  • Assist with quality review of events created by fellow dispatchers
  • Monitor alarms received and keep records based on unique accounts
  • Proficiently perform administrative tasks on desktop computer and notify management of any technological issues
  • Monitor in-house closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras
  • Perform dispatching duties for other locations in the event of a failure
  • Assist in the training of dispatcher trainees
  • Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • US Citizenship Required
  • Candidates will be required to undergo a background check
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Ability to work under stress and to respond to emergency communications
  • Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center
  • Excellent phone skills
  • Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties
  • Knowledge of a 24-hour emergency communication center including familiarity with public safety functions and concerns and of the public safety communication's environment, demands, requirements and related laws, regulations and systems
  • Computer Skills -- Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet and related software with reasonable speed and accuracy
  • Hold Secret security clearance or have the ability to gain/maintain one
  • Requires intermittent walking, sitting, and stretching throughout the workday.Employees will have extended periods of sitting, outside of breaks, throughout their shifts.
  • Employees are encouraged to walk around the room, rotate standing/sitting and to stretch occasionally. Required to walk to/from personal vehicles to the CSOC room. This is sedentary work that requires the use of phone systems, computers and radio communication, will be exposed to long of periods of sitting at assigned workstation and exposure to computer light.

BENEFITS

Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflect its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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