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Communications Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Tuskegee University

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

Tuskegee University

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

Peabody Energy

Communications Clerk

Adger, AL · On-site

Responsible for all communication at the mine as designated by CO and Tracking. Key Role ... with operating machinery - No uncontrolled respiratory or cardiac dysfunction - No severe ...

Peabody Energy

Communications Clerk

Adger, AL

Responsible for all communication at the mine as designated by CO and Tracking. Key Role ... with operating machinery - No uncontrolled respiratory or cardiac dysfunction - No severe ...

City of Foley

Communications Officer

Foley, AL

$40K/yr

Tracks all communications between Police Officers and the department during shift ... Receives all complaint calls and dispatches emergency personnel according to standard operating ...

City of Foley, AL

Communications Officer

Foley, AL · On-site

$40K/yr

Tracks all communications between Police Officers and the department during shift ... Receives all complaint calls and dispatches emergency personnel according to standard operating ...

UAB NOVA RENT

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER-HSOM

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$52K - $85K/yr

... areas, operating as a resource and conducting trainings for other SOM communicators in these specific areas. To collaborate with Heersink School of Medicine leadership or departmental leadership ...

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Communications Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$9

$21

$40

How much do communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for communications operator in Alabama is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a communications operator or 911 dispatcher typically requires completing a training program, passing a background check, and often obtaining certification. The job can be demanding due to the need for quick decision-making, multitasking, and handling stressful situations, but the difficulty varies based on individual skills and training programs.

What are some common challenges Communications Operators face during high-pressure situations, and how can they effectively manage them?

Communications Operators often encounter high-pressure scenarios, such as handling multiple emergency calls or coordinating responses with first responders. Staying calm and organized is essential; using established protocols and checklists can help ensure nothing is overlooked. Effective multitasking and clear communication with team members are crucial for accurate information relay. Regular training and debriefings also support operators in managing stress and improving performance during critical incidents.

Where do 911 dispatchers make the most money?

911 dispatchers tend to earn higher salaries in regions with larger populations and higher costs of living, such as urban areas or states with higher average wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the agency also influence pay rates, with some jurisdictions offering overtime and shift differentials that increase overall earnings.

What Is a Communications Operator?

A communications operator, also known as an emergency operator, is responsible for answering phone calls from the public about potential emergencies and directing emergency services to the caller’s location as necessary. Your job duties include gathering information from callers, dispatching the appropriate police, fire or ambulance personnel, and coordinating across various emergency personnel. A career as a communications operator does not require you have extensive qualifications or education; typically a high school diploma or GED certificate will suffice. To excel in this position, you need strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

What are high paying jobs in communications?

High paying jobs in communications include roles such as public relations managers, corporate communications directors, and media executives, which often require strong leadership skills and advanced degrees. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to their strategic importance and responsibility levels, especially in large organizations or industries like technology, finance, and healthcare.

What is the difference between Communications Operator vs Radio Dispatcher?

AspectCommunications OperatorRadio Dispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in radio operationHigh school diploma; certifications in radio communication often preferred
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, call centers, or communication hubsField sites, transportation hubs, emergency services
Industry UsageTelecommunications, transportation, emergency servicesPublic safety, transportation, logistics

Communications Operators and Radio Dispatchers both handle communication tasks, but Communications Operators typically work in centralized control rooms managing various communication systems, while Radio Dispatchers are more involved in field-based radio communication, often in emergency or transportation settings. Both roles require strong communication skills and certifications in radio operation, but their work environments and specific duties differ.

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

To thrive as a Communications Operator, you need strong verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio dispatch systems, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, and emergency communication protocols is important. Calmness under pressure, multitasking, and effective decision-making are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate information relay, rapid response times, and public safety in critical situations.

What are Communications Operators?

Communications Operators are professionals responsible for receiving, transmitting, and relaying information within organizations, often in emergency or public safety settings. They typically answer emergency and non-emergency calls, dispatch the appropriate personnel or resources, and maintain detailed records of all communications. Their work is crucial for ensuring timely response and coordination among teams such as police, fire, and medical services. Strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and proficiency with communication technology are key requirements for this role.

What does a communication operator do?

A communication operator manages and monitors communication systems such as radios, telephones, and data networks to ensure effective information flow. They respond to emergency calls, relay messages, and maintain communication equipment, often working in control rooms or dispatch centers. Strong communication skills and technical knowledge of communication tools are essential for this role.
More about Communications Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Communications Operator jobs in AL? For Communications Operator jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communications Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,943 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Police Communication Operator

Tuskegee University

On-site

$44K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Position Details
To create a Posting, first complete the information on this screen, then click the Next button or select the page in the left hand navigation menu. Proceed through all sections completing all necessary information. To submit the Posting to Human Resources, you must go to the Posting Summary Page by clicking on the Next button until you reach the Posting Summary Page or select Posting Summary Page from the left navigation menu. Once a summary page appears, hover your mouse over the orange Action button for a list of possible approval step options.
Position Information
Position Title
Police Communication Operator
Status
Full Time
Job Summary
This is a CONTINUOUS OPEN ANNOUNCEMENT
The Police Communication Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of incoming calls and relays information over radio, telephone, and computer systems. This position also query, enter, and update information in electronic record management systems, greet and assist visitors. Work schedule may be subject to change with or without advance notice.
Essential Job Duties
  • Operate and monitor radio transmissions via a two-way police radio. Receive and transmit messages to and from TU law enforcement and security officers on complaints, crimes in progress and general police communications. Operate the ACIC/NCIC criminal computer according to rules and regulations established by the State of Alabama and follow all rules and regulations as stated in the communications standard operating procedures (SOP) manual. (35%)
  • Dispatch emergency complaints to the officers as they are received through the 911-system for requests of an emergency nature. Operate all equipment associated with the enhanced NCIC SOP. (20%)
  • Monitor surveillance cameras and building alarms in regards to fires and illegal entry and dispatches the same to appropriate personnel. (10%)
  • Monitor the Police Scanner for emergency situations occurring in and around the general campus area as well as the inner city. Relay messages regarding the safety and conditions of police officers performing hazardous duties. (10%)
  • Make written records of all radio and telephone transmissions, messages, and complaints to and from officers and the general public as required by the F.C.C. and the TU Police Department. (10%)
  • Operate a personal computer system that provides information from criminal justice information system (CJIS) and the University, for student records and employee addresses, housing information and auto registration. Operate the T.D.D. machine for the hearing impaired as needed. (10%)
  • Assist in the operation and the transmission of the Emergency Alert and perform other duties as assigned (5%)

Qualifications (Education, Experience and Specialized Training)
  • High School diploma. Associate's degree preferred
  • 3 to 5 years of administrative experience or related experience
  • Experience working with the public and responding to customer service requests

Physical Demands
This position is frequently required to sit, communicate, or hear; occasionally required to walk, must be able to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to 10 pounds. Vision and hearing at or correctable to normal ranges. This position requires the ability to operate a keyboard and calculator at efficient speed.
Skills and Attributes
Knowledge of:
  • MS Office
  • Principles and practices for effective customer service

Skills:
  • Excellent customer service and organization skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent computer skills including MS Office

Ability to:
  • Plan, organize and collaborate with others
  • Communicate effectively
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Recognize priorities and work cooperatively
  • Prioritize multiple tasks and deal effectively with interruptions, often under considerable time pressure
  • Operate a computer and proficient in the use of MS Office applications and database applications

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S714
Will this position required travel?
No
Will this position required night, weekend, and after hour work?
Yes
Will this positon be supported using grants or contract funding?
No
Number of Vacancies
Desired Start Date
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
09/08/2024
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions Summary
Each applicant, including all current employees, must complete and submit the following documents:
  • Tuskegee University employment application
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume/CV
  • Recommendation letters
  • Copies of unofficial transcripts.
  • Please note that official transcripts(s) will be required upon hire

Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://tuskegee.peopleadmin.com/postings/2177

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