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911 Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$29.26/hr

Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center * Excellent phone skills * Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties * Knowledge of a ...

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

Reston, VA

$29.26/hr

Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center * Excellent phone skills * Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties * Knowledge of a ...

SierTeK Ltd.

LAN VoIP Network Specialist II Senior

MD · On-site

Must have an understanding of enhanced 911 systems, Defense Information Systems Agency Unified ... changes), operating, maintaining, restoring, protecting, backups and refreshing CUCM telephony ...

SIERTEK

LAN VoIP Network Specialist II Senior

MD · On-site

Must have an understanding of enhanced 911 systems, Defense Information Systems Agency Unified ... changes), operating, maintaining, restoring, protecting, backups and refreshing CUCM telephony ...

SierTeK Ltd.

LAN VoIP Network Specialist II Senior

MD · On-site

Must have an understanding of enhanced 911 systems, Defense Information Systems Agency Unified ... changes), operating, maintaining, restoring, protecting, backups and refreshing CUCM telephony ...

SIERTEK LTD

LAN VoIP Network Specialist II Senior

MD · On-site

Must have an understanding of enhanced 911 systems, Defense Information Systems Agency Unified ... changes), operating, maintaining, restoring, protecting, backups and refreshing CUCM telephony ...

SIERTEK

LAN VoIP Network Specialist II Senior

MD · On-site

Must have an understanding of enhanced 911 systems, Defense Information Systems Agency Unified ... changes), operating, maintaining, restoring, protecting, backups and refreshing CUCM telephony ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$19.50/hr

Machine Operator (Entry Level) Location: Onsite Schedule: Second Shift -12-hour shifts Compensation: $19.50 per hour For those who want to keep growing, learning, and evolving. We at Kelly ® hear ...

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911 Operator information

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How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 operator in Washington, DC is $30.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $32.64 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.
More about 911 Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching 911 Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for 911 Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

911 Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,583 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Dispatch Operator

Constellis

Washington, DC • On-site

$29.26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 118 rated security

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW
Monitor Federal Protective Services and contract guard radio traffic, receive emergency and non-emergency phone calls, and monitor security alarm systems in Federal Buildings for all US states and territories. Coordinate the appropriate response, to include sending and receiving audible and distinguishing voice communications via radio and telephone systems.
COMPENSATION
Hourly Rate $29.26.
Health and Welfare $5.09/hr
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Monitor FPS and radio traffic while coordinating the appropriate responses to emergency and non-emergency situations performing duties such as:
    • Communicating audio messages via radio and telephone
    • Coordinating law enforcement and public safety personnel activities
    • Transferring public safety information
    • Answering questions and updating client records
  • Think and act quickly, calmly, and accurately in emergency situations and under stressful circumstances.
  • Log all calls in database including required details of each call
  • Keep additional detailed logs to maintain accurate records of alarm use, ensure officer safety, and allow for precise and efficient communications among coworkers
  • Operate multi-channel radio and telephone dispatch equipment
  • Access Federal, State, and local databases and maintain compliance regulations and procedures
  • Assist with quality review of events created by fellow dispatchers
  • Monitor alarms received and keep records based on unique accounts
  • Proficiently perform administrative tasks on desktop computer and notify management of any technological issues
  • Monitor in-house closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras
  • Perform dispatching duties for other locations in the event of a failure
  • Assist in the training of dispatcher trainees
  • Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • US Citizenship Required
  • Candidates will be required to undergo a background check
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Ability to work under stress and to respond to emergency communications
  • Minimum of 1 years' experience as a 911 dispatcher or similar function in an emergency call center
  • Excellent phone skills
  • Be able to handle filing and other administrative duties
  • Knowledge of a 24-hour emergency communication center including familiarity with public safety functions and concerns and of the public safety communication's environment, demands, requirements and related laws, regulations and systems
  • Computer Skills -- Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet and related software with reasonable speed and accuracy
  • Hold Secret security clearance or have the ability to gain/maintain one
  • Requires intermittent walking, sitting, and stretching throughout the workday. Employees will have extended periods of sitting, outside of breaks, throughout their shifts.
  • Employees are encouraged to walk around the room, rotate standing/sitting and to stretch occasionally. Required to walk to/from personal vehicles to the CSOC room. This is sedentary work that requires the use of phone systems, computers and radio communication, will be exposed to long of periods of sitting at assigned workstation and exposure to computer light.

BENEFITS
Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflect its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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