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Communication Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Communications Dispatcher

Hanford, CA · On-site

$57K - $70K/yr

Operate communication and computer-aided dispatch equipment. Intermittently, review and evaluate documents related to department operations; observe, identify and problem solve office operations and ...

Communications Dispatcher

Hanford, CA · On-site

$57K - $70K/yr

Operate communication and computer-aided dispatch equipment. Intermittently, review and evaluate documents related to department operations; observe, identify and problem solve office operations and ...

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Communication Dispatcher information

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How much do communication dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for communication dispatcher in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a communication dispatcher?

Communication Dispatchers, often referred to as emergency dispatchers or public safety dispatchers, are professionals responsible for receiving and relaying information between the public and emergency response teams such as police, fire, and medical services. They answer emergency and non-emergency calls, gather critical information, and coordinate the appropriate response units to incidents. Communication Dispatchers must remain calm under pressure, think quickly, and communicate clearly to ensure public safety and effective response. Their role is vital in helping save lives and protect property during emergencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication dispatcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Communication Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers requiring completion of specialized dispatcher training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is essential. Excellent verbal communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure set top dispatchers apart. These skills ensure rapid, accurate responses in emergency situations, directly impacting public safety and effective crisis management.

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

Communication Dispatchers often work in high-pressure environments where quick decision-making and clear communication are critical, especially during emergencies. Managing stress, multitasking between multiple calls, and maintaining composure under pressure are common challenges. Effective training, strong support from colleagues, and utilizing updated dispatch software can help manage these demands. Additionally, regular breaks and peer support systems are valuable for maintaining mental well-being and job performance.

Is it hard to get hired as a communication dispatcher?

Getting hired as a communication dispatcher can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, strong communication skills, and sometimes certification or training. Employers typically look for candidates who can handle high-pressure situations and operate dispatching software efficiently.
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Infographic showing various Communication Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

Communication Dispatcher I

Tewksbury, MA • On-site

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Tewksbury Hospital, under the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), is seeking applicants for the position of Communication Dispatcher I at our 370-bed Joint Commission accredited hospital campus. The hospital provides comprehensive treatment, care, and comfort to adults with medical and/or mental illnesses in a secure healthcare environment.

This position plays an essential role in supporting hospital operations by coordinating communications, monitoring emergency systems, and ensuring timely dissemination of information throughout the campus.

Schedule: This position works 40 hours per week, evening shift 2:30PM - 10:30 PM, with Sunday & Monday off.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

  • Operate Cisco Switchboard and Cisco communications software; make public address (P.A.) system announcements.

  • Transmit and receive messages from a radio communications base station.

  • Coordinate radio communications to fixed stations, mobile units, and emergency response personnel.

  • Contact appropriate sources of assistance during emergency situations, including severe weather conditions.

  • Operate and train staff on communications equipment including voice terminals, power failure phones, alpha/numeric pagers, in-house pagers, cellular phones, and TDD devices.

  • Monitor alarm systems including Fire Alarms, Code Blue, Code Gray, Code Yellow, Pharmacy, Blood Bank, Oxygen, Sump Pump, Water Tank, temperature alarms, door alarms, and other building systems.

  • Check and test operating conditions of communications equipment, elevator phones, speaker systems, and ring-down lines.

  • Report equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs.

  • Maintain detailed and accurate shift logs and documentation.

  • Remain on duty until properly relieved.

Required Qualifications:

  • Effective communication skills and ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships.

  • Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful or emergency situations.

  • Ability to make decisions and act quickly in urgent or high-pressure circumstances.

  • Ability to exercise discretion when handling confidential information.

  • Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate records.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working in customer service, administrative support, call center, security, healthcare, or public safety environments.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook (email management), Word (document preparation), Excel (data entry and basic spreadsheets), and Teams or similar communication platforms.

  • Experience operating multi-line phone systems, switchboards, or computerized communication systems.

  • Ability to accurately enter and retrieve information from databases or electronic record systems.

  • Experience maintaining logs, tracking information, and generating basic reports.

  • Familiarity with monitoring alarm systems, building systems, or security systems is helpful but not required.

  • Ability to multitask, prioritize incoming calls and messages, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.

  • Strong typing skills and general computer literacy.

  • Experience working in a structured or regulated environment such as healthcare, education, or government is beneficial.

About Tewksbury Hospital:

Tewksbury Hospital offers a broad range of services including a physician on site at all times, around-the-clock nursing care, rehabilitation services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, psychology services, social services, nutritional services, and an on-site dialysis clinic.

Learn more: https://www.mass.gov/locations/tewksbury-hospital

Pre-Hire Process:

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. 


Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

For questions concerning this requisition, please contact Employment and Staffing Customer Service at 1-800-510-4122, #4.

For technical questions accessing MassCareers, please contact Mass HR at 617-979-8500.

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements:  None  
Special Requirements:  
After appointment, appointees must obtain a valid Restricted Radiotelephone Operator's permit issued by the Federal Communications Commission.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

Title 101 CMR 23.00 ("Regulation") requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.