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911 Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

911 Dispatcher

Sturgeon Bay, WI · On-site

$29.15 - $33.12/hr

Operating 24 hours a day, the center provides dispatching for all law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies across the county. Staff manage both emergency 911 calls and non-emergency requests for ...

EMT

Milwaukee, WI

$21 - $24.89/hr

Curtis Ambulance is seeking State of Wisconsin licensed EMTs to join our team! 95% 911 response and ... Operating emergency vehicles safely and proficiently. * Assessing patients' conditions and ...

Required - Minimum of 1 year (3 years preferred) current field experience in a busy 911/pre ... Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations (CEVO) or Emergency Vehicle Operating Certification (EVOC ...

Preferred a minimum of 1 year (2080 hours) current field experience in 911 or ED. * Active ... Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations (CEVO) or Emergency Vehicle Operating Certification (EVOC ...

Preferred a minimum of 1 year (2080 hours) current field experience in 911 or ED. * Active ... Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations (CEVO) or Emergency Vehicle Operating Certification (EVOC ...

Preferred a minimum of 1 year (2080 hours) current field experience in 911 or ED. * Active ... Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations (CEVO) or Emergency Vehicle Operating Certification (EVOC ...

Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... operator LEVEL 2 (Level 1 + missions below) 1 - Ensure production in compliance with procedures - Manage his/her station and comply with standard production rates - Help to remove and install ...

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911 Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$23

$27

$32

How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 operator in Wisconsin is $27.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $29.13 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.
What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For 911 Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 911 Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for 911 Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for 911 Operator jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most 911 Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in WI? For 911 Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,685 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

911 Dispatcher

Door County, WI

Sturgeon Bay, WI • On-site

$29.15 - $33.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in joining Door County Government!
Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year-round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula.
Within the County organization, the Door County Communications Center serves as the central point of contact between the public and emergency response services. Operating 24 hours a day, the center provides dispatching for all law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies across the county. Staff manage both emergency 911 calls and non-emergency requests for service, ensuring timely and accurate communication to support public safety.
The Communications Center is committed to delivering courteous, efficient, and high-quality service grounded in integrity, cooperation, and concern for community welfare. Through reliable communication, professional standards, and effective coordination, the department plays a critical role in supporting the safety and well-being of residents and visitors throughout Door County.
To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.
Job Summary
This position supports Door County's emergency response infrastructure by operating critical communications equipment to dispatch police, fire, and emergency medical services. The role requires exceptional focus, decision-making under pressure, and technical proficiency in order to ensure prompt and accurate public safety responses. Work is performed in a 24/7/365 communications center which includes nights, weekends, and holidays.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  1. Receives and routes emergency and non-emergency calls using telephone and computer-aided dispatch systems; prioritizes based on urgency and nature of the situation.
  2. Dispatches appropriate law enforcement, fire, or emergency medical personnel using radio systems in compliance with FCC regulations.
  3. Provides effective and professional communication with distressed callers to gather essential information, offer reassurance, and provide critical pre-arrival instructions when applicable.
  4. Monitors ongoing incidents to relay critical updates, track unit status, and ensure accurate documentation in real-time.
  5. Utilizes geographic knowledge and mapping tools to verify locations and direct responders efficiently.
  6. Operates and maintains entries in the TIME System, including warrants, restraining orders, missing persons, and stolen property, ensuring compliance with state and federal protocols.
  7. Maintains and interprets teletype communications and administrative messaging to support interagency coordination, which includes the National Weather Service
  8. Participates in mandatory training sessions and meetings to maintain certifications and stay current on protocols and system updates.
  9. Maintains records and logs consistent with departmental procedures, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and completeness.

Key Competencies & Skills
  • Communication: Clearly and calmly conveys information to callers and first responders, often under stressful and time-sensitive conditions.
  • Multitasking: Manages multiple calls, data systems, and radio communications simultaneously with high accuracy.
  • Problem Solving: Analyzes incoming information rapidly and determines appropriate dispatch actions with and without direct supervision.
  • Technical Proficiency: Operates dispatch consoles, radios, computer-aided dispatch and proprietary software with accuracy and efficiency while responding to real-time events.
  • Emotional Resilience: Maintains composure and decision-making ability in high-stress, emergency situations with callers and interagency personnel.
  • Attention to Detail: Accurately records data and ensures consistency across systems while responding to real-time events.

Required Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Ability to type a minimum of 31 words per minute, verified by a standard keyboarding test.
  • Ability to obtain Certified Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification within six (6) months of hire.
  • Must obtain Basic and Advanced TIME System certifications within one (1) year of hire and maintain active status.
  • Successful completion of the 911 dispatch field training and evaluation program within six (6) months of hire.

Preferred Education & Experience
  • Previous experience in emergency dispatch or public safety communications.
  • Additional certifications in public safety telecommunications or Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certified.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Work is performed in a secure, climate-controlled emergency communications center. The position involves prolonged periods seated at a console station using dispatch systems, performing keyboard entry, and communicating with others by phone and radio. Duties also require standing, bending, and walking within the work area. Employees must be able to read and interpret information on computer screens and dispatch equipment, and to perceive and respond to audible signals and spoken information. The role may involve minimal discomfort from noise or extended sitting and may occasionally require lifting items up to 20 pounds, such as documents or small equipment, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Emergency Response Statement
In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
Disclaimer
The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
Questions About the Position or Hiring Process?
Contact Door County Human Resources
hr@co.door.wi.gov
Monday-Thursday: 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Application Information
Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals.
If you require a reasonable accommodation during any part of the application or selection process due to a disability, please notify Human Resources.
What to Expect:
Application Timeline
  • Position is open until filled-apply today.
  • Application materials may be reviewed as they are received.

Selection Process
Applicants may be evaluated through one or more of the following:
  • Review of application materials
  • Structured interview(s)
  • Skills tests, assessments, work samples, or other job-related evaluation methods, as applicable

Pre-Employment Requirements
Final candidate(s) may be subject to job-related pre-employment requirements, which may include:
  • Reference check(s)
  • Background check
  • Job-related pre-employment screening
  • License, certification, or credential verification

Compensation
The starting rate of pay will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications, relevant experience, certifications, and demonstrated skills, consistent with the County's compensation plan. We are committed to equitable and competitive compensation practices, including consideration of internal equity.
Thank you for your interest in this position. We look forward to reviewing your application.