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911 Emergency Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Livingston County 911 Central Dispatch is an integral part of Livingston County public safety that provides 24-hour police, fire, and emergency medical response to the public. Extensive dispatch ...

Posted today

911 Emergency Dispatcher

Howell, MI · On-site

$23.99 - $30.98/hr

The Livingston County 911 Central Dispatch is an integral part of Livingston County public safety that provides 24-hour police, fire, and emergency medical response to the public. Extensive dispatch ...

New

911 Emergency Dispatcher

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$24.52 - $31.86/hr

We are looking for someone to join Team Yuma as a 911 Emergency Dispatcher working with the Police Department. The ideal candidate will have strong communication and multitasking skills, the ability ...

New

We are looking for someone to join Team Yuma as a 911 Emergency Dispatcher working with the Police Department. The ideal candidate will have strong communication and multitasking skills, the ability ...

New

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 ...

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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 9, 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

Livingston County

Howell, MI • On-site

$30.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

Livingston County was named a 2025 Top Workplace by the Detroit Free Press! Based solely on employee feedback, the Top Workplace title is a badge of honor for the County. With over 700 employees serving within 18 departments, 6 elected offices, and 3 Courts, Livingston County's top priority is providing effective and efficient services that improve the quality of life for all of our residents.

The Livingston County 911 Central Dispatch is an integral part of Livingston County public safety that provides 24-hour police, fire, and emergency medical response to the public. Extensive dispatch/public safety training provided. Exciting and meaningful work assisting the public and being a part of the public safety team. Receives emergency calls and dispatches law enforcement officers, fire and/or emergency medical services throughout the County. Utilizes specialized computer systems to secure necessary information for law enforcement personnel and to enter information relative to warrants, personal protective orders, stolen vehicles and other such data. Continually monitors availability and location of emergency units and/or designated personnel in the field. Requires working assigned shifts and emergency coverage for a twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year operation. Under the general supervision of the Dispatch Supervisor or other management staff.

Benefits Offered With This Position Include:

  • Competitive compensation plan
  • MERS Retirement Plan
  • Employer funded MERS Retirement Health Savings Plan
  • Comprehensive Medical, Pharmacy, Dental & Vision
  • Optional Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation plan
  • Employer Paid Basic Life & AD&D insurance
  • Health & Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid vacation, sick days & 13 Holidays. Unused vacation and sick time rolls over per union contract
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • $500 annual Wellness reimbursement
  • Voluntary benefits such as Accident, Critical Illness, LTD & Hospital policies
  • Employee assistance program

Pay Structure:

The 911 Dispatcher role is a union position and starting pay is $23.99/hr. This position is eligible for step pay increases within our 911 Union Wage Scale. Top end of the current wage scale for this position is $30.98/hr. Training hours include a 40 hour work week, with no overtime during your classroom training. Once your initial classroom training is complete, your schedule will include mandatory built-in overtime which will be paid out at time and a half. You will be paid on a bi-weekly basis. Please note, we are accepting lateral hires with a starting wage between $23.99 to $30.98 per hour.

Duties:

  • Receives emergency calls for law enforcement, fire and/or emergency medical services assistance.
  • Reviews and secures any additional information needed on location, nature of incident, status of emergency and other vital data.
  • Confirms the nature of the calls, determines the priority of the calls, decides which agency should respond and dispatches the necessary information to the proper agency or unit.
  • Assists emergency service units in the field by securing and/or verifying information through computers, department files and records, and other sources of available data.
  • Obtains and coordinates the assistance of additional police, fire and medical services/units/agencies, as well as other organizations needed in emergency situations.
  • Monitors the availability and location of various emergency and/or designated personnel in the field.
  • Records and maintains information in both manual and computerized systems.
  • Operates radio consoles, recorders, E911 displays, computer-aided dispatching terminals, LEIN and NCIC terminals, Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD and Text), other specialized equipment, departmental PCs and general office machines.
  • Monitors weather conditions on automated, emergency management system and relays severe weather conditions to emergency agencies.
  • Provide first aid or other pre-arrival instructions to callers pending the arrival of emergency, trained personnel.
  • Monitors multiple situations simultaneously, including the monitoring of the Central Dispatch Facility security systems.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent AND one of the following:
  • Six months' experience with customer service, multitasking, leadership/supervisory experience or responding to emergency situations in an emergency call center, fire service, ambulance service, law enforcement, hospital or military - OR-
  • Completion of 48 credit hours in public safety related program at an accredited college or university (Send transcripts to humanresources@livgov.com) - OR -
  • Possess current certification in Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Fire Dispatch, and Emergency Police Dispatch
  • Have not been convicted of a violation of criminal law (Criminal law generally includes all offenses except traffic law, conservation law, and liquor law. Generally, conviction for a violation of criminal law is automatically disqualifying).
  • Must have normal hearing and normal color vision
  • One year working with the public
  • Must be able to type a minimum of 30 WPM

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Physical Requirements:

  • Positions in this class typically require: gross and fine motor skills, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.
  • Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Positions in this classification are:

Required to operate radios, telephones, specialized telecommunications equipment and general office machines, required to enter and retrieve information from computerized systems, required to bend, stoop, and reach to operate equipment and perform other job functions, required to distinguish, differentiate and respond to multiple audible stimuli from personnel and equipment, such as telephone, radio and alarms required to distinguish, differentiate and respond to multiple visual stimuli, such as printed documents, computer displays and indicator lights, and required to clearly convey verbal messages utilizing telecommunications devices.

Positions in this classification must be able to:

work in an area with radios, telephones, and telecommunications equipment for periods of time up to 16 continuous hours), maintain a quick work pace with periods of intense activity, work assigned day, afternoon, night, overtime, emergency and other shifts, including holidays to maintain a 24-hour operation, work in an office environment or the mobile command center, and work effectively in situations ranging from mundane to life or death.