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911 Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for 911 Call Takers/Dispatchers for the City of Dallas Police Department. Candidate ... Working knowledge of Communications Division Standard Operating Procedures (S.O.P.), General and ...

Prior corporate GSOC experience or 911 Dispatch Operator * Familiarity with global threat environments and risk analysis * Experience with intelligence reporting or investigations * Excellent ...

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 ... No 10 Have you tested to be a 911 Telecommunicator with Blue Earth County in the past two years?

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911 Operator information

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How much do 911 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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.

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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to 911 Operator jobs? For 911 Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various 911 Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 94% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.
911 Public Safety Dispatcher- Basic (HR Title: Communications Officer- Basic)

911 Public Safety Dispatcher- Basic (HR Title: Communications Officer- Basic)

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY

Dallas, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 5 days ago


Southern Methodist University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Hourly Range: 

Hourly wage commensurate with experience and certifications.

About SMU:

SMU's more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University's small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities - from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.

About Department:

The mission of the SMU Police Department is to maintain a working partnership with all members of the Campus Community to preserve life, maintain human rights, protect property, and promote the educational objectives of Southern Methodist University.
The men and women of the SMU Police Department believe in a shared responsibility with our community to create a secure and inclusive environment that promotes and supports the educational process.

About the Position:

The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator- Basic will have a wide range of responsibilities performed both independently and as part of a team. Primary duties include transmitting and receiving communications through the police radio system and managing a multi-line telephone system. The role also involves monitoring campus-wide fire and intrusion alarms and initiating appropriate response actions. Additional responsibilities include collecting and recording payments for fingerprinting services and bond transactions, addressing complaints and inquiries, and preparing detailed reports. The position requires proficient operation of various computer systems, including surveillance cameras, voice recording equipment, records management systems, and nationwide databases.

This is classified as an "On Campus Essential" position.

Essential Functions:

  • Receives complaints and inquiries from members of the university community by telephone, email, or in person at the service window. After assessing the information provided, the dispatcher deploys police, fire, or emergency medical services as appropriate using the radio communication system.

  • Maintains a computer-based log of all police activities. They document service calls and radio communications from officers in the CAD system and use the system to determine whether an officer has had prior interactions with a specific individual or vehicle. Additional responsibilities include submitting reports and updating reference manual.

  • Responsible for managing multiple computer systems, including a CCTV network with more than 2,000 cameras, fire and security alarm monitoring systems, 911 services, and a police blotter.

  • Collects and records payments for fingerprints, reports, and notary services.

  • Oversees and maintains all equipment within the emergency communication center to guarantee reliability and continuity of emergency response operations. This includes conducting regular inspections and reporting any malfunctions or technical issues to ensure all systems and devices remain fully operational at all times.

  • Must be available to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays, as assigned. The SMU Police Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Education and Experience:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate's degree is preferred.

A minimum of one year of experience in a high-volume customer service environment is required, preferably in a dispatch center and/or security setting.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator should possess excellent verbal communication skills, the ability to speak clearly and interact effectively in all circumstances. They must also show sound decision-making capabilities, problem-solving skills, and maintain composure while handling stressful situations. 

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.

Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.  

Ability to obtain TCOLE Telecommunications Operator License within 1 year of employment is required.

Proficiency in utilizing Windows computer operating system and the Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, and Outlook) is required.

Knowledge of records management systems is preferred.

Preference will be given to candidates familiar with law enforcement terminology and procedures.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

Physical:

  • Sit for long periods of time
  • Bend
  • Reach above shoulders

  • Handle objects (dexterity)
  • Carry/lift over 25-50 lbs.
  • Kneel
  • Stand
  • Push/Pull

Environmental:

  • Exposure to excessive noise
     
  • Around moving machinery
     
  • Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity
     
  • Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, radiation, microwave
     
  • Drives motorized equipment
     
  • Work in confined quarters

Deadline to Apply:

Deadline date

EEO Statement:

SMU is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.


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