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911 Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

911 Dispatcher

Globe, AZ ยท On-site

$54K - $66K/yr

PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS REQUIRED/PREFERRED ACJIS TOC (Terminal Operator Certification) preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License if position duties require. Supplemental ...

911 Dispatcher

Globe, AZ ยท On-site

$54K - $66K/yr

PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS REQUIRED/PREFERRED ACJIS TOC (Terminal Operator Certification) preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License if position duties require. Supplemental ...

This is a RN position in the EXT-Other (911) Unit. You must have a Nursing License and at least 2 years of recent Operating Room US nursing experience as a RN - Operating Room. Prime`s team of ...

Communications Operator

Tucson, AZ ยท 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 ...

Communications Operator

Tucson, AZ ยท 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 ...

RN - Operating Room

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$1.7K/wk

This is a RN position in the EXT-Other (911) Unit. You must have a Nursing License and at least 2 years of recent Operating Room US nursing experience as a RN - Operating Room. Prime`s team of ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Kingman, AZ ยท On-site

$45K - $69K/yr

This position performs entry level work involved in simultaneously operating a multi-channel radio console, computer terminal, 911 mapping and multi-line telephone while maintaining a computer aided ...

This position performs entry level work involved in simultaneously operating a multi-channel radio console, computer terminal, 911 mapping and multi-line telephone while maintaining a computer aided ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Sells, AZ ยท On-site

$22.30 - $25.23/hr

Under close supervision, serves as 911 dispatch operator for public safety receiving emergency and non- emergency calls from the public; broadcasts and responds to police radio patrol units and other ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Sells, AZ ยท On-site

$22.30 - $25.23/hr

Under close supervision, serves as 911 dispatch operator for public safety receiving emergency and non- emergency calls from the public; broadcasts and responds to police radio patrol units and other ...

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911 Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$21

$25

$29

How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 operator in Arizona is $25.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 911 operator?

911 Operators, also known as emergency dispatchers, are professionals who answer emergency and non-emergency calls from the public. They are responsible for gathering essential information from callers, determining the nature and location of emergencies, and dispatching the appropriate emergency services, such as police, fire, or medical personnel. In addition to dispatching, they may provide life-saving instructions over the phone and must remain calm and composed under pressure. Their work is crucial to ensuring a swift and effective emergency response.

What does a 911 operator do?

A 911 operator works in an emergency dispatch center receiving calls from the general public. Also known as emergency dispatchers, in this job, you answer the phone when someone calls the 911 emergency number. Your job duties include answering phone calls in a 24-hour call center, collecting information from callers regarding the emergency situation, and dispatching the appropriate safety personnel to assist the callers. As a 911 operator, many of the phone calls you receive are serious in nature and can be traumatic, so you must be able to work well under this stress and maintain strong communication skills.

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

To thrive as a 911 Operator, you need strong communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and a high school diploma or GED, with some agencies requiring specialized training or certification. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone systems, and radio equipment is essential. Exceptional emotional resilience, multitasking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure timely, accurate responses to emergencies, which directly impact public safety and successful emergency outcomes.

What are some of the biggest challenges 911 operators face during high-stress calls, and how can they manage them effectively?

911 Operators frequently handle high-pressure situations, such as medical emergencies or crimes in progress, where staying calm is crucial. The biggest challenges include managing emotional callers, quickly gathering accurate information, and prioritizing multiple incidents simultaneously. Effective operators rely on strong communication skills, standardized protocols, and support from their team to ensure efficient and compassionate responses. Many agencies also provide regular training and access to peer support programs to help operators cope with job-related stress.

What is the difference between 911 Operator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

Aspect911 OperatorEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, communication skills, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, communication skills, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, public safety agenciesEmergency call centers, public safety agencies
Employer & IndustryPolice, fire, EMS departmentsPolice, fire, EMS departments
Job FunctionsAnswer emergency calls, gather info, dispatch servicesAnswer emergency calls, coordinate dispatch, provide info

Both 911 Operators and Emergency Dispatchers work in emergency call centers, answering calls and dispatching services. The roles are often used interchangeably, with slight variations depending on the agency. Generally, they require similar skills and certifications, focusing on quick response and communication. The main difference lies in terminology used by different agencies, but their core responsibilities and work environments are very similar.

How do you get a job as a 911 operator?

To become a 911 operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete training provided by the hiring agency. Strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and knowledge of emergency protocols are essential for the role.

How long does it take to become a 911 operator?

Becoming a 911 operator typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the department's requirements. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and may need to obtain certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) or Emergency Telecommunicator Certification. Ongoing training is often provided to develop communication skills and familiarity with dispatch systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of 911 Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for 911 Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most 911 Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in AZ?

For 911 Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,334 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

$54K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Salary : $54,993.00 - $66,258.00 Annually
Location : Globe, AZ
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-097
Department: Sheriff's Office Dispatch
Opening Date: 12/11/2025
Purpose of the Job
The purpose of this position is to respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, and emergency services in compliance with County procedures to assure the safety of law enforcement officers, emergency services personnel and the public.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not supervise other employees.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
TIME SPENT
  • Answers incoming emergency and non-emergency calls; interviews callers and gathers details; prioritizes calls for service and determines appropriate personnel to respond; dispatches emergency responders; relays pertinent information to law enforcement and emergency services personnel in a concise, organized and understandable manner.

20%
  • Enters and validates stolen vehicles and property; validates license plates and identities of missing and wanted persons.

20%
  • Enters calls for service in Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System.

20%
  • Monitors and maintains status of patrol units and coordinates ambulances and helicopters.

10%
  • Operates emergency radio for Police, Fire, EMS, Probation, and other emergency responders contacts, Border Patrol Response Rescue Team, Forest Service Search and Rescue, and the Public Works Department when necessary.

10%
  • Runs confidential criminal histories; booking pawn and prisoner information for officers and detectives; enters warrant entry and orders of protection.

10%
  • Coordinates mutual aid as required; updates agencies that provide emergency response assistance.

10%
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

BUDGET RESPONSIBILITIES
This position has no responsibility over any types of budget.
PROJECT RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not have project responsibilities.
ORAL COMMUNICATION DUTIES
This position trains colleagues, explains County procedures or processes, responds to public inquiries, participates in meetings and negotiates or persuades. Incumbents in this position may be required to speak with the media, occasionally.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION DUTIES
This position creates or edits documents, internal memos, emails and reports.
INTERACTIONS WITH THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Interacts extensively with employees, customers, the general public, vendors, regulatory bodies, and other groups and/or individuals and Institutions over the telephone, by email, and/or in person.
INTERACTIONS SPECIFICALLY WITH CUSTOMERS
Always (More than 85% in a year)
Minimum Education/Directly Related Experience Required
MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIRED
High School Diploma or GED.
MINIMUM YEARS OF DIRECTLY RELATED EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
One (1) year relevant experience.
Typing speed of 35 wpm.
PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS REQUIRED/PREFERRED
ACJIS TOC (Terminal Operator Certification) preferred.
Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License if position duties require.
Supplemental Information
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED
Telecommunication technology; public safety and security; law enforcement; public safety regulations and First Responders' Protocols.
SKILLS REQUIRED
Active learning; active listening; analytical thinking; negotiating; problem recognition; problem solving; multi-tasking; typing and Data Entry.
ABILITIES REQUIRED
Fully and quickly comprehend spoken words; make sense of multiple data; find directions and current locations; multi-task; maintain mental response and quickness and maintain oratory ability under stressful situations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Constantly sits to complete report, operate computers, operate special equipment, complete a program, attend to reception areas, perform watchmen duties and to attend to other duties.
  • Rarely requires dexterity for special machines; constantly requires dexterity for keyboard operation and for special gadgets.
  • Incumbents in this position may be required to rarely intervene, walk to and from work sites, bend, stoop, crawl, kneel and twist.
  • Occasionally lifts work-related materials of up to 10 lbs. in weight.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Incumbents in this position perform work in a high call volume emergency dispatch office environment, where there is little opportunity for physical movement. The incumbent must remain alert and responsive while observing computer display screen for uninterrupted periods of time. Incumbents may be subject to extended work periods without relief during high call volume time and during stressful situations.
SAFETY RISK EXPOSURE
Incumbents in this position are generally not exposed to safety risk. On rare occasions, incumbents in this position may become exposed to occasional telephone verbal abuse by customers or citizens.
PROTECTIVE GEAR & SAFETY MANUALS
Incumbents in this position are required to constantly follow written safety procedures and manuals relevant to the division or department.
CONSEQUENCES OF ERROR
Potential errors can have legal ramifications, loss of funding, loss of organization's credibility.
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