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911 Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

911 Dispatcher

Globe, AZ · 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 ...

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

Telephone Office Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Operator must handle confidential and sensitive information. Utilizes the paging systems for ... Responsible for expediting all 911 emergencies to include: Code Triage Disasters; Radiation and ...

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 ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Kingman, AZ · 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 ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Kingman, AZ · 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 ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Sells, AZ · 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 · 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

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How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 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 are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in Arizona?

For 911 Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles 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 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 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.

911 Operator II - YCSO (Prescott)

Yavapai County Government

Prescott, AZ

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Role Under general supervision, receives, transmits, and monitors radio communications to and from fixed or mobile transmitters and operates a telephone exchange and teletype equipment for dispatching proper equipment and personnel to expedite work operations. Major Duties, Responsibilities Answers the telephone and all systems and receives emergency calls from citizens, law enforcement agencies or fire departments requesting/reporting emergencies, information, and assistance. Documents pertinent information into the Computer Aided Dispatch System.

Determines proper personnel response and dispatches units. Enters information into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and quickly prioritize and assign call for service; updates unit activities; communicates, tracks, and monitors the status, location, and availability for units. Manages communications of emergency personnel responding to incidents operations during events such as active shooter and officer down responses.

Takes protective actions for first responders by providing life-safety information during responses; analyzes conflicting and/or limited location information to direct first responders to the scene; negotiates with suicidal callers or hostage takers; and deploys to the scene of planned events, major emergencies, or ongoing incidents. Perform records inquiries (e.g., registration, drivers' license, wanted persons); provides criminal history information or national crime history; enters records into manual and automated systems. Provides general information to the public

Attends meetings and trainings as per departmental requirements. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience: A minimum of six (6) months of relevant experience. Additional Requirements: Must possess a valid Arizona driver's license. All persons applying for employment with the Sheriff's Office shall be required to meet the following general qualifications: integrity, honesty, dependability, industry thoroughness, accuracy, good judgment, initiative, and courtesy.

All persons will be required to complete a thorough background investigation to include, but not limited to polygraph, psychological, and physical fitness test. All persons must successfully complete a minimum six (6) month probation period. Other Skills Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of: Applicable emergency communication technologies.

Business English, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and composition. Clerical office practices and procedures. Research techniques and report writing.

Current Microsoft Office software. Filing and recordkeeping. Skill in: Emergency communications.

Exercising good judgment, applying logical thinking, and making sound decisions to accomplish tasks. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing and communicating orally in a face-to-face setting and by telephone with public and employees. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.

Organization and adherence to detail. Ability to: Prioritize tasks and address the most critical and pressing demands first. Work under extreme pressure, exercise good judgement, and make sound decisions during emergency situations.

Maintain manual and automated records while handling emergency situations. Work rotating shifts, which includes weekends and holidays. Observe or monitor objects, data, and/or behavior to determine compliance with prescribed operating or safety standards.

Use graphic visual aids, blueprints, schematics, or layouts. Develop and maintain effective working relationships with associates, employees of other departments, representatives of other organizations, County officials, and the public. Keep management informed of key operating issues affecting the department.

Remain current in knowledge required to perform assigned duties. Handle confidential matters and maintain discretion. Act with courtesy, tact, and diplomacy.

Work Environment: The work environment is associated with an office. The work area is adequately lighted, heated or cooled and ventilated. Physical Requirements: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.

Sufficient vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech ability to communicate effectively in-person and telephonically. Capable of frequent repetitive movement of arms, fingers, and wrists. Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.

Additional Job Information: FLSA: Non-Exempt Grade: 7 Classification: Classified Safety Sensitive: Yes