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Apco 911 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

911 Systems Manager

Bozeman, MT ยท On-site

$92K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW This position is in the 911 Department and is responsible for the strategic ... of Public Safety Officials (APCO), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal ...

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Apco 911 information

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How much do apco 911 jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for apco 911 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.

What are APCO 911 operators?

APCO 911 operators, also known as public safety telecommunicators or emergency dispatchers, are professionals who answer emergency and non-emergency calls for help and coordinate the response of police, fire, and medical services. They work in 911 call centers, using computer systems to gather information and dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel. APCO refers to the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials, which sets standards and provides training for these operators. Their role is critical in ensuring timely and accurate responses during emergencies, often serving as the first point of contact for people in crisis.

What is the difference between Apco 911 vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectApco 911Emergency Dispatcher
CertificationsAPCO certifications, CPR, EMDCPR, EMD, state-specific dispatcher certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic safety call centers, emergency responsePublic safety agencies, police, fire, EMS
Employer & IndustryPublic safety agencies, governmentPolice, fire departments, emergency services

Both Apco 911 and Emergency Dispatcher roles involve handling emergency calls, requiring similar certifications like CPR and Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). Apco 911 refers to a standardized training and certification program by APCO International, while Emergency Dispatcher is a general job title for those working in emergency call centers. The main difference lies in the certification source and specific training programs, but both roles serve the critical function of coordinating emergency responses.

What are some common challenges faced by APCO 911 dispatchers, and how can they be managed effectively?

APCO 911 dispatchers often face high-pressure situations that require quick thinking and calm communication. Managing simultaneous emergency calls, maintaining composure during distressing incidents, and efficiently relaying information to first responders are typical challenges. Effective time management, ongoing training, and strong teamwork help dispatchers handle these demands. Many agencies also provide support resources, such as peer counseling, to help dispatchers manage stress and maintain well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an APCO 911 Dispatcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an APCO 911 Dispatcher, you need excellent communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized dispatcher training or APCO certification. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is vital. Strong multitasking, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top performers apart. These skills ensure accurate, timely responses to emergencies, support public safety, and facilitate effective coordination with first responders.
More about Apco 911 jobs
What states have the most Apco 911 jobs? States with the most job openings for Apco 911 jobs include:
Infographic showing various Apco 911 job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,061 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

911 Systems Manager

Gallatin County

Bozeman, MT โ€ข On-site

$92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW This position is in the 911 Department and is responsible for the strategic oversight, technical management, and continuous improvement of mission-critical public safety infrastructure for Gallatin County. Position works with the representatives of all public safety interests in seeing communications needs are being met. This position reports to the 911 Director and exercises supervision over the CAD Administrator, 911 Information Technologist and the 911 Radio Technician positions.

Provides project management and planning for all future projects related to the 911 radio, phone and computer systems and technology. Responsible for the financial management related to 911 technology systems (radio, telephone and computer systems). Administers the frequency licensing and serves as the primary coordination point regarding radio frequency related issues with system end users, vendors, co-located users, landowners and other parties.

Administers and maintains a system monitoring, preventative maintenance, and equipment replacement program. Maintains a current system operations diagram to include equipment specifics and equipment failover plan. Develop and maintain communication system strategic plan to address replacement and additional equipment, addressing end goal and progressive steps based on a prioritized basis and fiscal year budgets.

Serves as a project manager for system maintenance and upgrades by coordinating vendors and system users. Coordinates all Gallatin County public safety communications activities; works closely with state and federal agencies, as well as surrounding local governmental agencies to design, procure, implement, and maintain an interoperable radio communication system. Works closely with user agencies to ensure the systems design, operational aspects and specifications for the system to meet their specific needs today and into the near future.

Communicates and coordinates regularly with appropriate personnel to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities. Accountable for addressing all the technical aspects of the County's public safety communications systems, including resolving technical issues associated with daily operations, the addition of new equipment technologies and the integration of new telecommunications companies into the 9-1-1 system. Other Duties as Assigned Perform a variety of other duties as assigned by the Director.

This includes coordinating special projects and events, system research and analysis, attending meetings and special events, and attending continuing education and training as required. Attendance of these events and maintenance of systems will require availability after hours. If the County Commission proclaims a local emergency due to an actual or threatening disaster such as an earthquake, fire, riot, flood, etc., County employees may be required to provide services during the emergency and for a subsequent period of assessment and recovery

QUALIFICATIONS This position requires the knowledge of public safety technology planning, frequencies; public safety operations; theories: radio, phone and computer technology; and the ability to implement programs that crosses multiple jurisdictions; telecommunications, public safety communications, information processing and management principles and the knowledge of computer related software for word processing, statistics gathering, creating presentations and spreadsheets; the basic knowledge of microwave technology and operation; radio equipment and related communications equipment; the knowledge of public safety hardware, including network switches, voice routers, and emergency power systems. This position must also have knowledge of finance management. Position must be proficient with interpersonal skills in dealing with diverse groups and interests while remaining supportive of the goals and objectives of 9-1-1 communications.

The position must possess the ability and willingness to quickly learn and use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology. Position must have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and the ability to perform a wide variety of duties with accuracy under pressure of time-sensitive deadlines. This position also requires the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

This position should have the ability to lead the maintenance and modernization of critical systems, including the Zetron 911 phone system, EF Johnson P25 radio networks, and CAD/RMS (CentralSquare Pro Suite). This position should be cognizant of all relevant standards and regulations governing public safety Systems including, but not limited, those of the Association of Public Safety Officials (APCO), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Emergency Number Association (NENA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE The required knowledge, skills, and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in telecommunications, electronics, electrical engineering, computer engineering, information technology or a closely related field and five (5) years related work experience or a combination of both.

Knowledge of or experience with VLAN segmentation, multicast traffic management, routing protocols, EF Johnson P25 radio systems, Central Square CAD/RMS/Jail, and Zetron phone systems is preferred. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION As a condition of hire, the final candidate will be required to successfully pass a background investigation. For application consideration, the following documents are required to be submitted when you apply online: Cover Letter Resume Three (3) work references Gallatin County is an equal opportunity employer.

All applicants will be considered for employment on the basis of merit and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, or physical or mental disability.