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911 Telecommunicator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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$15

$25

$40

How much do 911 telecommunicator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 telecommunicator in Virginia is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 911 telecommunicator?

911 Telecommunicators, also known as emergency dispatchers, are professionals who answer emergency calls and dispatch the appropriate emergency services, such as police, fire, or medical assistance. They are responsible for quickly gathering critical information from callers, providing instructions, and coordinating response teams. Their work is essential in ensuring that help reaches people in crisis situations as efficiently as possible. 911 Telecommunicators must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and think quickly to make life-saving decisions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a 911 telecommunicator?

To thrive as a 911 Telecommunicator, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring specialized emergency communications training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and sometimes certifications like APCO or NENA are typically used in this role. Exceptional communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate, timely dispatch of emergency services and maintaining public safety in high-stress situations.

What challenges do 911 telecommunicators face, and how are they addressed?

911 Telecommunicators often face the challenge of managing high-stress situations, such as handling multiple emergency calls simultaneously or dealing with callers in distress. They must remain calm and focused to accurately gather information and dispatch appropriate emergency services quickly. Agencies typically provide comprehensive training, ongoing support, and access to counseling services to help telecommunicators cope with stress. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication with field responders are essential to ensure effective outcomes and minimize errors during critical incidents.

Is it hard to be a 911 telecommunicator?

Being a 911 telecommunicator can be challenging due to the high-pressure environment, the need for quick decision-making, and handling stressful emergency calls. The job requires strong communication skills, multitasking ability, and often involves shift work, including nights and weekends. Training and certifications are typically required to prepare for the demands of the role.

What are popular job titles related to 911 Telecommunicator jobs in Virginia?

For 911 Telecommunicator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 911 Telecommunicator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for 911 Telecommunicator jobs in Virginia are:

911 Telecommunicator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Telecommunicator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,606 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator (Office Automation)

US Department of the Army

Fort Myer, VA • On-site

$57K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 494 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

About the Position: Serves as a Public Safety Telecommunicator (Office Automation) for dispatching Fire, Emergency Medical Services, and Law Enforcement (LE) responders, monitoring alarms and activating Mass Notification Systems in Army Garrison Public Safety Answering Points/911 Centers.
Standing Register: Applications will be reviewed and referred for selection at periodic cut-off dates. First cut-off is 8/27/2026 with referrals to follow every two weeks thereafter until position is filled.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes: 1) Answering emergency and/or non-emergency calls for police, fire, medical or ambulance assistance; 2) Dispatching emergency personnel AND vehicles; AND 3) Operating automated systems, emergency dispatching and communications equipment. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level in the Federal service (GS-06).
Proficiency Required: This position requires a qualified typist. A qualified typist can type 40 words per minute based on a 5 minute sample with three or fewer errors.Education:Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted.Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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