ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

911 Telecommunicator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pender County Government

E911 Telecommunicator

Burgaw, NC · On-site

$51K - $60K/yr

Work is performed under the limited supervision of the E-911 Telecommunicator/Shift Leader. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to complete the essential functions of the ...

Pender County, NC

E911 Telecommunicator

Burgaw, NC · On-site

$51K - $60K/yr

Work is performed under the limited supervision of the E-911 Telecommunicator/Shift Leader. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to complete the essential functions of the ...

City of DeKalb

Telecommunicator

Dekalb, IL

$27.42 - $39.29/hr

The Telecommunicator receives, analyzes, classifies, prioritizes and responds to calls of an ... Receives emergency calls for service from multiple sources including an NG9-1-1 system, text-to-911 ...

City of DeKalb, IL

Telecommunicator

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$27.42 - $39.29/hr

The Telecommunicator receives, analyzes, classifies, prioritizes and responds to calls of an ... Receives emergency calls for service from multiple sources including an NG9-1-1 system, text-to-911 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs911 Telecommunicator Jobs

911 Telecommunicator information

See salary details

$15

$25

$40

How much do 911 telecommunicator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for 911 telecommunicator in the United States is $25.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a 911 dispatcher paid?

The average salary for a 911 telecommunicator or dispatcher in the United States ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and agency. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced dispatchers or those in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented with shift differentials and overtime opportunities.

How to become a 911 dispatcher with no experience?

To become a 911 dispatcher with no experience, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a dispatcher training program, and pass a background check. Strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and familiarity with emergency call systems are also important for entry-level candidates.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by 911 Telecommunicators, and how are they addressed on the job?

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.

What is the difference between a 911 dispatcher and a telecommunicator?

A 911 telecommunicator is a professional who answers emergency calls, gathers information, and dispatches appropriate emergency services. The term 'dispatcher' often refers to the same role, but 'telecommunicator' emphasizes the communication aspect and may include additional responsibilities like radio communication and data entry; both roles require training, certification, and the ability to handle high-stress situations.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as many agencies require candidates to pass background checks, written exams, and sometimes psychological evaluations. Relevant skills include communication, multitasking, and stress management, and some positions may require certification or training programs before employment.

What are 911 Telecommunicators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 911 Telecommunicator, and why are they important?

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.
More about 911 Telecommunicator jobs
What cities are hiring for 911 Telecommunicator jobs? Cities with the most 911 Telecommunicator job openings:
What states have the most 911 Telecommunicator jobs? States with the most job openings for 911 Telecommunicator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 911 Telecommunicator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 911 Telecommunicator jobs are:
911 Telecommunicator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 911 Telecommunicator 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 $53,061 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
911 Telecommunicator (HELPS)

911 Telecommunicator (HELPS)

City of Rochester, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$50K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary: $50,811.00 - $64,465.00 Annually
Location : Rochester, NY
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25ELCR2513
Department: Emergency Communications Department
Opening Date: 07/10/2025
General Description
This is a communications position in the Emergency Communications Department with responsibility for answering emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and emergency medical services and efficiently relaying the information to Dispatchers. This job involves an unusual working environment which includes: the stress of daily contact with life and death situations such as fires, murders, rapes, and assaults in progress; sitting for long periods including times with little call activity; having to remain calm and in control when speaking to people who are screaming, crying, or hysterical; being polite to people who are angry, abusive, or use foul language; strict adherence to rules and regulations; close supervision and constant evaluation of job performance. Employees are expected to work on a wheel schedule, involving various shifts which cover day and night hours and to work overtime as needed. Work is performed under direct supervision in accordance with a prescribed routine. Related work is done as required.
Typical Work Activities
  • Receives complaints and reports of incidents for fire, police, and emergency medical services by telephone wearing a headset;
  • Answers text to 911 calls;
  • Controls telephone conversations to obtain necessary information, following policies and procedures;
  • Records information from callers manually and delivers to dispatchers, when computer is not functioning;
  • Inputs information from callers or users agencies into computer, using typewriter style keyboard;
  • Determines appropriate call type and course of action, based on the nature of the complaint and its priority;
  • Follows appropriate EMD Protocol scripts to obtain and provide information;
  • Maintains contact with caller during life-threatening situations and provides instructions until units arrive;
  • Returns hang-up calls to determine if emergency services are required;
  • Answers TTY (for the deaf) to provide services;
  • Operates call check (tape recorder) to verify accuracy of information or information not understood,
  • Directs non-emergency calls to the appropriate agency;
  • Trains new Telecommunicators;
  • Initiates searches of computer files, using a keyboard;
  • Directs non-emergency calls to the appropriate agency;
  • Testifies in court as needed;

Minimum Qualifications
I. High school diploma or Equivalent;
OR
II. Completion of the Public Safety Communications course of study offered by the Rochester City School District.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Must have satisfactory police record and background check including FBI fingerprinting.
2. Must undergo a medical examination that will test, but will not be limited to: vision, hearing, speech, physical ability to sit for long periods, and must pass a
psychological evaluation.
New hires and re-hires must pass a drug test.
For full-time employees:
The City of Rochester offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
For less-than full-time employees:
The City of Rochester offers numerous growth opportunities to include the potential to transition into full-time, permanent employment.
01
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply