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911 Emergency Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you interested in starting a new career or are you an experienced emergency dispatcher looking to continue your career with a top-notch agency. The City of Sunnydale is seeking an entry-level or ...

911 Dispatcher

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Our job duty is similar to those of a 911 emergency dispatcher. We must be attentive and perform procedures with a quick and accurate response as our industry is life safety. Your essential functions ...

Dispatcher

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$56K - $67K/yr

A 911 emergency dispatcher provides life safety and scene safety instructions using protocols while prioritizing situations and directing calls with commitment to established department policies and ...

Dispatcher

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$27.04/hr

As a 911 emergency dispatcher, the initial first responders' primary responsibility is to receive, process, transmit and dispatch emergency & non-emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, emergency ...

As a 911 emergency dispatcher, the initial first responders' primary responsibility is to receive, process, transmit and dispatch emergency & non-emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, emergency ...

Receive emergency service calls from the public requesting law enforcement, ambulance, fire, or other emergency service; determine nature, location, and priority of emergency; dispatch emergency ...

A 911 Dispatcher II is a Public Safety Telecommunicator that is responsible for answering ... This position requires dedicated personnel that have the ability to handle and manage emergency ...

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911 Emergency Dispatcher information

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How much do 911 emergency dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 emergency dispatcher in the United States is $25.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a 911 Emergency Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized dispatcher training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication technology, and emergency protocols is essential. Outstanding communication skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, public safety, and the well-being of callers and first responders.

What is the difference between 911 Emergency Dispatcher vs Emergency Call Taker?

Aspect911 Emergency DispatcherEmergency Call Taker
CredentialsCPR certification, dispatcher training, sometimes state certificationSimilar certifications, often includes emergency communication training
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, dispatching police, fire, EMSCall centers, handling emergency and non-emergency calls
Employer & IndustryPublic safety agencies, police, fire, EMSPublic safety agencies, emergency services
Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in emergency response communicationCommonly compared with dispatchers for call handling duties

The main difference between a 911 Emergency Dispatcher and an Emergency Call Taker is that dispatchers actively coordinate emergency response units, while call takers primarily handle incoming calls and gather information. Both roles require similar certifications and work in emergency call centers, but dispatchers have additional responsibilities in dispatching responders to incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by 911 emergency dispatchers and how are they addressed on the job?

911 Emergency Dispatchers often encounter high-stress situations, including handling multiple calls simultaneously and managing emotionally charged conversations. To address these challenges, dispatchers receive extensive training in crisis communication, multitasking, and prioritization. Many agencies provide ongoing support through regular debriefings, access to mental health resources, and a team-oriented environment where colleagues and supervisors offer assistance and backup when needed. This support structure helps dispatchers maintain composure and effectiveness during critical incidents.

What is a 911 emergency dispatcher?

911 Emergency Dispatchers are professionals who answer emergency calls and coordinate the response of police, fire, and medical services. They are trained to calmly gather crucial information from callers, assess the situation, and dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel to the scene. Dispatchers also provide critical instructions to callers, such as first aid steps, while help is on the way. Their role is essential in ensuring public safety and rapid emergency response.

How long does it take to become a 911 emergency dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 emergency dispatcher typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency. Candidates usually need to pass a background check, obtain CPR certification, and develop skills in communication and emergency response protocols during training. Some jurisdictions also require passing a written exam and on-the-job training before full certification.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 emergency dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 emergency dispatcher typically requires completing a training program, passing background checks, and demonstrating strong communication and multitasking skills. Competition can vary by location, and candidates often need to meet specific qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent and sometimes certification in emergency communication. The hiring process may include written exams, interviews, and psychological assessments.
More about 911 Emergency Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for 911 Emergency Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most 911 Emergency Dispatcher job openings:
What states have the most 911 Emergency Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for 911 Emergency Dispatcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various 911 Emergency Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,061 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

911 Emergency Dispatcher

Archuleta County

Pagosa Springs, CO • On-site

$22.95 - $32.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Archuleta County is seeking Emergency Dispatchers
Archuleta County offers an excellent benefit package, including health and dental coverage, county match retirement plan, paid holidays, paid vacation, sick leave, 457 pre-tax retirement plans, and $50,000 of life and AD&D insurance.
JOB SUMMARY:
Receives, maintains, and directs communications between the public and police, fire, medical, and utility departments; handles both emergent and non-emergent communications. Performs public service relations; Provides medical pre-arrival care instructions. Performs data entry and retrieval on multiple computer systems. Duties are performed with a considerable degree of initiative and independence.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Answers incoming calls which include emergency calls for police, fire, rescue, and medical assistance, and utility and other non-emergent calls.
Obtains information necessary for dispatching personnel and equipment; studies geographical locations to dispatch nearest available unit; operates base radio to dispatch appropriate personnel on a timely basis.
Monitors and answers several radio frequencies for police and fire suppression services, and dispatches appropriate personnel.
Inputs, retrieves, and maintains information in automated computer information system.
Monitors, inputs, and retrieves information in the CCIC/NCIC (Colorado and National Crime Information Computer) System.
Processes and files all police reports; maintains history records; prepares, retrieves and maintains master name crime indexes; receives, photocopies, disseminates, maintains criminal justice records; maintains radio log and recording; communicates with various agencies via teletype using CCIC/NCIC computer systems, and direct communications via phone and in person with all other agencies.
Receives, directs and transmits all facsimile transactions.
Assists in investigations by performing computer searches of parties under investigation or connected with cases. Transmits teletypes to other agencies.
Requests documents and information from other agencies.
Perform a variety of record keeping, filing and other general clerical work.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities may be qualifying.
Must be at least 18 years of age
Education - High School diploma or equivalent
Experience - One to three years of prior experience prefered.
Licenses and Certifications: - CCIC/NCIC Certification - or the ability to become CCIC/NCIC operator certified within six months of hire. Emergency Medical Dispatch certified within six months of hire. CPR/First Aid Certification - or the ability to become certified within six months of hire.