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911 Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Plymouth Energy

Operator

Merrill, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Production Operator - Ethanol Plant Operations Merrill, Iowa Join a Team Where Your Work Actually Matters Plymouth Energy is seeking a Full-Time Production Operator for our ethanol facility in ...

Labor Solutions, LLC

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Clive, IA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Labor Solutions is seeking reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operators to join our production team on both the 1st and 2nd shifts. This role is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Blast Operator

Paton, IA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary The Blast Operator is responsible for setting up and operating the shot blast machine to produce quality parts in a timely manner and to customer specifications. Summary of Essential Job ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Blast Operator

Paton, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary The Blast Operator is responsible for setting up and operating the shot blast machine to produce quality parts in a timely manner and to customer specifications. Summary of Essential Job ...

Kent Corporation

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waterloo, IA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed production including quality control, ingredient and feed processing, manufacturing and load out, ingredient ...

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How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 operator in Iowa is $25.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $27.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are 911 Operators?

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 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.

How to become a 911 dispatcher?

To become a 911 dispatcher, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete training provided by the employing agency. Certification in emergency medical dispatch or other relevant skills may be required, and strong communication and multitasking abilities are essential for the role.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher typically requires passing a written exam, background check, and training program, which can be competitive due to the job's high responsibility. Candidates often need strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and sometimes certification in emergency dispatching. The hiring process can be rigorous, but meeting the qualifications and demonstrating relevant skills improves chances of being hired.

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.

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.

How to get a job being a 911 operator?

To become a 911 operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete emergency dispatch training. Strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and familiarity with emergency call systems are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid 911 operator?

The highest paid 911 operators typically earn salaries in the upper range of emergency dispatchers, with some earning over $60,000 annually, especially in regions with higher cost of living or specialized certifications. Factors such as experience, location, and additional skills can influence salary levels for this role.
More about 911 Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in Iowa? For 911 Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 911 Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for 911 Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for 911 Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most 911 Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in IA? For 911 Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
911 Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,749 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
911 Communications Operator - Lateral Transfer

911 Communications Operator - Lateral Transfer

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$28.55/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

911 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR - LATERAL POSITION
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY: Open Until Filled
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Currently employed as a certified Iowa public safety dispatcher for a PSAP or has been so employed within the previous 12 months prior to beginning employment with the city and has successfully completed the Basic Iowa System Training (BIST), ILEA Basic 40-hour Telecommunicator School and is current on the Iowa/NCIC state system certification.
  • Must be a citizen of the United States and a resident of the state of Iowa or intend to become a resident upon employment.
  • Must be a high school graduate with a diploma or possess a G.E.D. equivalency certificate.
  • This position requires availability for night shift, holidays and weekends.
  • See job description below for complete information.

LATERAL TRANSFER:
A lateral transfer is defined as an individual who is currently employed as a certified Iowa public safety dispatcher for a PSAP or has been so employed within the previous 12 months prior to beginning employment with the city and has successfully completed the Basic Iowa System Training (BIST), ILEA Basic 40-hour Telecommunicator School and is current on the Iowa/NCIC state system certification.
INCENTIVES:
An individual meeting these requirements will be given credit for prior years of service, and their starting salary will be placed accordingly within the current MPPA adopted salary scale and benefit hour earning scales for Communications Operators as well as a hiring bonus of $5,000 payable in two installments - $2,500 on the first paycheck and $2,500 on the paycheck after completing one year of employment with the City of Marion.
*Hiring Bonus only applies to first time City of Marion hires.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST:
  • Completed City of Marion Application (cover letter and resume is required)
  • Military Discharge Separation Papers - DD214 showing box 24: Character of Service (if applicable) Honorable Discharge (required for Veteran's Preference Points)
  • Current phone number and email address

Communication regarding the hiring process will be sent via the email provided on your application. Please monitor your email closely throughout this process for confirmations and updates.
JOB INFORMATION
Job Title: Communications Operator
Civil Service: No
Department: Marion Public Safety Communications
Bargaining Unit: Yes
Reports to Position: Communications Manager
Pay Grade: Per MPPA Contract
Location: Police Department
Overtime Status: Paid Overtime
Effect. Date: 01/01/2020
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
JOB SUMMARY
This is a non-management position within the Public Safety Communications Center of the Marion Police Department. A Communications Operator serves the community by answering emergency and routine calls via phone, radio, or other devices and gathers essential information from callers; enters the call information into the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system and dispatches the appropriate first responders to the scene as needed. The operator provides dispatch and communication support services for police, fire, EMS, and can require the coordination of other related service agencies during joint events. Work is performed in accordance with federal and state laws as well as departmental regulations, policies, and routines. This position has 3 shifts: Day Shift - 6 am - 2 pm; Evening Shift - 2 pm - 10 pm; and Overnight Shift 10 pm - 6 am. Shifts are bid on every 6 months by seniority with all new hires working evening and overnight shifts, including weekends and holidays.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED
  • Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace or citizens encountered during work.
  • Receive all 911 and routine line phone calls, as well as the police department administrative phone calls by operating a multi-line telephone console system including telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) or hearing-impaired.
  • Must always be ready to take a call and respond as necessary.
  • Accurately interpret, condense, and prioritize information relevant to the call; select proper call type responses.
  • Keep callers on the phone, if necessary, in order to provide responders with the most current information to handle the call safely and efficiently.
  • Ask vital questions and provide pre-arrival instructions for emergency personnel.
  • Transfer or relay calls, individuals or information to officers or other members of the department or make secondary party calls to others as needed or requested. (i.e.: gas, electric, water, etc.)
  • Operate the department's multi-channel/multi-agency radio equipment; be clear in tone, enunciation and volume; be concise giving details in an accurate, brief and logical order over the radio.
  • Monitor multiple radio channels and talk groups and understand their functions.
  • Dispatch calls to correct law enforcement, fire or medical personnel via the radio equipment, monitoring all radio traffic, keeping units updated with accurate information.
  • Rapidly and accurately type all call information or officer-initiated activity into the computer-aided dispatching (CAD) system; efficiently operate multiple computer programs, understand the system integration and stat-based requirements; quickly log, retrieve and/or disseminate information as needed or requested.
  • Monitor the state computer system for attempt to locates or time-sensitive messages from other agencies; Utilize the state computer system to enter and modify information into local, state, and national computer database National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
  • Greet and assist citizens walking into the public lobby; for information or requesting officer response.
  • Continuously review policies and procedures and update communications center manuals as required.
  • Perform administrative work and print paperwork as needed or requested by officer.
  • Train employees or officers on specific tasks as needed.
  • Perform related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS
  • Knowledge of City geography and surrounding area.
  • Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining to the communications function.
  • Knowledge of the services provided by the police department, fire department, other City departments, and outside agencies.
  • Knowledge of police and fire radio procedures.
  • Skill in the use of radios, telephones, recording, teletype, computer systems, and other related equipment utilized by the communications center.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality required by law and department guidelines.
  • Ability to understand and execute oral and written directions as well as the ability to accurately relay information verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to proficiently operate the equipment located in the communications center.
  • Ability to work rapidly and accurately while entering, retrieving and disseminating information via multiple applications.
  • Many of the work duties listed are completed simultaneously; must be able to multitask effectively using a number of computer programs, phones, recordings, radios, and other related equipment in a high stress environment.
  • Must be organized, level-headed, and trustworthy.
  • Ability to foster and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees and the public providing competent, pleasant customer service.
  • Ability to manage and prioritize calls during times of high call volume or when a partner is not present.
  • Able to take control of difficult situations in order to obtain information from excited or agitated individuals in person or by phone.
  • Ability to constantly prioritize tasks and adapt to each individual situation in a short amount of time.
  • Ability to make minor decisions in accordance with established law, regulations, and policies.
  • Ability to remain calm under all types of emergency and/or emotional situations.
  • Able to perform work accurately and in detail, keeping emergency responders safe and informed.
  • Ability to work long hours when necessary.
  • Currently possess or must obtain Iowa Online Warrants and Articles (IOWA) / National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Certification within 6 months of hire.
  • Currently possess or must obtain ILEA Telecommunicator Basic Training Certification within one year and maintain throughout employment.
  • Certified Training Operator (CTO) Certification desirable.
  • Annual recertification for IOWA/NCIC required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to read, speak, write, and understand English to effectively communicate with citizens and employees by telephone, in written form, or face-to-face.
  • Ability to operate telephone, computer keyboard, calculator, switchboard, teletype, photocopier, and similar electronic and manual office machines.
  • Ability to monitor and respond to all required police radio traffic.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time for typing and computer work.
  • Ability to bend, reach, climb, stoop, and lift 40 pounds for filing and records retrieval.
  • Ability to muti-task in a high stress environment.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Currently employed as a certified Iowa public safety dispatcher for a PSAP or has been so employed within the previous 12 months prior to beginning employment with the city and has successfully completed the Basic Iowa System Training (BIST), ILEA Basic 40-hour Telecommunicator School and is current on the Iowa/NCIC state system certification.
  • High school diploma or G.E.D. is required, additional course work desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Work in a 24/7 office environment that includes evening, nights, weekends, and holidays; extended hours may be required during emergencies.
  • Work may require call in without notice for forced overtime 24/7.
  • Work in a potentially stressful environment with constant exposure to urgent, time-sensitive situations requiring immediate action.
  • Emotional resilience is required. Must remain calm, focused, and professional despite verbal hostility or emotionally charged exchanges.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS
  • Sex Offender Registry
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Drug Screening
  • Driving Record
  • Pre-Employment Physical
  • Polygraph

QUESTIONS
Contact City of Marion Human Resources at 319-743-6301
Contact Communications Center Manager at 319-377-1511

Apply