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911 Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Facility Services Inc.

Computer Operator III

MD · On-site

$35.78/hr

Respond to alarms and equipment failures as detailed in the alarm message to include; contacting the end user/ POCs, on call duty personal, security office, 911 operator or FMO supervisors for ...

New

Hartford HealthCare at Home

EMS Dispatcher

Norwich, CT · On-site

Operating within our 911 Emergency Communications Call Center, this unique telecommunicator position will not only act as a 911 operator, but also as a liaison between healthcare facilities and our ...

Blue Earth County

911 Telecommunicator

Mankato, MN

$61K - $86K/yr

... operating procedure manual. Provides public service information including weather/road conditions ... for 911 Telecommunicators. Must adhere to data practices policies and standards regarding non ...

Blue Earth County, MN

911 Telecommunicator

Mankato, MN · On-site

$61K - $86K/yr

Must complete MN BCA 2-day Basic Operator Training within 6 monthsof start date (in-person or ... for 911 Telecommunicators. Must adhere to data practices policies and standards regarding non ...

On Time Transport

MAVO $16.50-$17.34

Toms River, NJ · On-site

MAVO (Mobility Assistance Vehicle Operator) On Time Transport has provided Caring in Motion since 1990, providing mostly non emergent medical transport to patients to and from different medical ...

Douglas County (NE)

Communications Dispatcher

Omaha, NE

$32.03 - $42.32/hr

Perform duties of a 911 Operator. Maintain knowledge and skill set through continuing education (e.g. on-the-job, classroom, webinar, seminar, workshop training) Maintain knowledge of and adhere to ...

New

Douglas County, NE

Communications Dispatcher

Omaha, NE · On-site

$32.03 - $42.32/hr

Perform duties of a 911 Operator. * Maintain knowledge and skill set through continuing education (e.g. on-the-job, classroom, webinar, seminar, workshop training). * Maintain knowledge of and adhere ...

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911 Operator information

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How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 operator in the United States is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $28.85 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 cities are hiring for 911 Operator jobs? Cities with the most 911 Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Operator jobs? The most popular types of 911 Operator jobs are:
What states have the most 911 Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for 911 Operator jobs include:
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911 Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.
Communications Operator I

Communications Operator I

City of Jefferson, MO

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Jefferson City, MO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202609a
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
The City of Jefferson is currently accepting applications for the position of Communications Operator for the Jefferson City Police Department. Be a part of the action! Career-oriented individuals are sought to answer 9-1-1 emergency calls and dispatch emergency personnel. This position supports the Jefferson City Police and Fire Departments, Cole County Sheriff's Office and four Cole County Volunteer Fire Districts and Departments, including monitoring and responding to emergency radio frequencies and public telephone calls, providing information upon request to personnel in the field, greeting and serving the community and other administrative and communications duties, to ensure radio transmissions and calls for service are processed in a responsible, timely and accurate manner on a continual basis.
Join the Jefferson City Police Department and receive the following incentives:
  • $5,000 incentive with prior 911 operator experience.
  • $2,500 incentive for candidates without prior 911 operator experience plus paid training.

In addition to the above incentive, employees earn a minimum hourly wage equal to $42,880.74 annually and approximately $1,700 in holiday pay! Higher starting salaries available based on experience. Extensive training and support is provided.
Applicants must be able to work four - 10 hour shifts per week and rotate every 28 days between days, evenings and midnights. Extensive training provided. Applicants must pass an extensive background and criminal history check before being considered.
Examples of Duties
Monitors Police Department telecommunications and security systems, receives and responds to requests for Jefferson City Police and Fire Departments, Cole County Sheriff's Office and four Cole County Fire Departments, and other emergency services by telephone or radio; receives emergency telephone system calls for assistance and dispatches related public safety personnel; determines nature of required assistance, location and other pertinent information; and dispatches units according to standard operating procedures, to ensure emergency assistance is provided quickly.
Receives and responds to requests for information from City Police Officers, Cole County Deputies, City and County Fire Personnel in the field and other authorized persons; uses the computer aided dispatch (CAD) system to enter all calls for service, emergency and non-emergency, in an accurate and timely manner, including all pertinent information to the call for service in such a way as to be effectively interpreted and acted upon by telecommunications personnel immediately and for archiving of information for later retrieval.
Performs various other communications functions as needed, including rerouting, paging and dispatching for holiday and after-hours City, County and State services; uses the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System, National Crime Information Center and Department of Revenue computer systems to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies; and makes entries into Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System and National Crime Information Center files in order to facilitate the efficient and accurate exchange of law enforcement information.
Typical Qualifications
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent, the ability to type 40 wpm and good speech/clarity. One year experience as a telephone operator, dispatcher or related work preferred. Multi-tasking ability is a must.
Physical: Ability to stand and sit for extended periods; visual acuity to read documents and computer screens for prolonged periods; speak clearly; and hearing adequate to operate radio and telephone equipment to participate in multiple conversations concurrently.
Mental: Ability to concentrate on multiple detailed tasks for two hours or more; maintain composure and perform effectively in emergency and other stressful situations; and have strong interpersonal relationship skills to facilitate positive peer and community interaction.
Supplemental Information
Extensive training provided. Applicants will be submitted to an extensive background check during the process.
Applicants must be able to provide the following documents:
1. A clean copy of your valid drivers' license, and
2. A copy of one of the following: your high school diploma, GED, college transcript/diploma, or DD-214.
If you have any questions about the recruitment process, please call Lt. Jason Payne at 573-634-6400 or visit for more information.
EEO-M/F/D/V
This position receives full benefits including: holiday, vacation, sick and other leaves; health, life, dental, and disabiity insurance benefits; optional dependent and other insurance benefits; LAGERS pension benefits; Employee Assistance Plan; paid training; and other fringe benefits.
01
What is your typing ability?
  • 10-30 wpm ( I hunt and peck.)
  • 30-50 wpm (I am pretty good.)
  • 50+ (I am great at typing.)

02
Do you have the availability to work a 28-day rotating shift?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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