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Apco 911 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Public Safety Telecommunicator

Westwood, MA · On-site

$33.31 - $42.52/hr

APCO Telecommunicator 1 * NextGen 911 * Priority Dispatch Emergency Medical Dispatch * CPR What we offer: * Full-time, benefit-eligible position, with an annual salary range of $64,832 - $82,762 ($33 ...

... 911 calls Determines and dispatches the appropriate emergency personnel to incident locations ... Possession of current certification in Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO ...

In addition, two years' experience in supporting 911 information systems or mid-level information technology position is highly preferred, as is Experience in data security, risk management and ...

... 911 Emergency Communications • Experience supporting Police Dispatch • Experience supporting ... experience • APCO membership or public safety communications experience • Experience ...

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Apco 911 information

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How much do apco 911 jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 is an APCO 911 operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an APCO 911 dispatcher?

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.

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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,061 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator

Town of Westwood

Westwood, MA • On-site

$33.31 - $42.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Public Safety Telecommunicator

The Town of Westwood seeks a full time Public Safety Telecommunicator to answer 911 and non-emergency calls as well as to perform public safety dispatch functions for the Town. The successful candidate will receive information from the public and other agencies to coordinate a prompt and efficient response to requests for police, fire, emergency medical services, and other town services. Work is performed in a state-of-the-art Public Safety Communications Center.

Duties include the following:

  • Operates software-based (currently NEXGEN) computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system as well as multiple other systems
  • Establishes priorities of calls for service, and dispatches the appropriate number and type of resources to address the need
  • Monitors all radio frequencies in the communications center
  • Monitors and maintains all equipment within the communications center
  • Answers inquiries from, and provides information to the public
  • Disseminates various types of applications concerning licensing or registrations

Minimum requirements: High school graduate or equivalent, Associate’s degree preferred, plus one year of experience in a customer service position dealing with the general public, computers and administrative duties, or any equivalent combination. Ability to read and write English proficiently and interpret and apply guidelines as necessary. Must successfully pass a background investigation, including review of state and FBI records, as well as a drug screen. Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required by their assigned schedule or as needed by the department. This position is deemed “essential” and employees must be able to report to work as required regardless of weather or any other adverse conditions. Hold-over overtime and mandatory staffing is possible for this position.

Qualified candidates must be able to communicate clearly, maintain composure in stressful situations, have the ability to multi-task, and be able to operate multiple cloud, web, tablet, smartphone, and pc applications to include GIS related functions.

The following qualifications are preferred, but not required:

  • APCO Telecommunicator 1
  • NextGen 911
  • Priority Dispatch Emergency Medical Dispatch
  • CPR

What we offer:

  • Full-time, benefit-eligible position, with an annual salary range of $64,832 - $82,762 ($33.31 - $42.52 per hour) + 6% Night Differential
  • Overtime eligibility, paid time off, health, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance, as well as flexible spending and deferred compensation plans
  • Access to on-site fitness facility, paid training, and education reimbursement opportunities

Applicants with experience encouraged to apply. Flexibility in starting pay, and time off accrual rates available based on experience.

Apply by August 21st, 2026. Please include resume, cover letter, and a list of applicable certifications.

The Town of Westwood is an equal opportunity employer