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Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

St Joseph Health

Communications Operator

Bryan, TX

$15 - $18.45/hr

Every day, you will execute vital communication tasks, managing platforms, drafting content, and operating systems to ensure timely information dissemination. You'll also contribute to strategy by ...

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Communications Operator information

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$10

$23

$44

How much do communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for communications operator in the United States is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.96 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.
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Communications Operator jobs near you

Communications Operator

CHI Saint Joseph Health System

Lexington, KY

$15.30 - $21.61/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities
As a Communications Professional, you will be a dynamic, essential voice, ensuring clear, consistent, and compelling communication across all channels to engage stakeholders and uphold our brand.
Every day, you will execute vital communication tasks, managing platforms, drafting content, and operating systems to ensure timely information dissemination. You'll also contribute to strategy by monitoring effectiveness and supporting campaigns to enhance messaging and reach.
To be successful in this role, you will possess exceptional written/verbal communication, technical proficiency with tools, meticulous attention to detail, adaptability, and proactivity, ensuring impactful connections with diverse audiences.
  • Performs all duties related to switchboard activity, i.e. completing incoming calls, paging physicians and hospital personnel, and forwarding messages. Authorizes long distance telephone calls in accordance with established procedures.
  • Responds quickly and accurately to incoming emergency signals and requests for announcing Hospital distress codes. Responsible for knowing appropriate procedures related to emergency situations.
  • Responsible for making necessary announcements daily in accordance with standard procedures.
  • Maintains current "on call" listing and places calls to locate teams needed for emergencies.
  • Responsible for distribution of replacement pagers and batteries and contacting appropriate parties concerning pager malfunctions.
Job RequirementsRequired
  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • None, upon hire

Preferred
  • Work in a hospital setting and
  • Six months to one year switchboard operator experience
Where You'll Work

Welcome to Saint Joseph Hospital, a 433-bed hospital founded in 1877 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth as the first hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Led by Sister Euphrasia Stafford, the mission to provide compassionate care to the underserved is still carried out today. Saint Joseph Hospital holds over two dozen national ranks and recognitions and is recognized as a 2024 Best Place to Work in Kentucky.

Saint Joseph is part of CommonSpirit Health, a non-prot, Catholic health system dedicated to advancing health for all people. With approximately 175,000 team members and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice clinicians.

Our commitment to serve the common good is delivered through the dedicated work of thousands of physicians, advanced practice clinicians, nurses, and staff; through clinical excellence delivered across a system of 140 hospitals and more than 2,200 care centers serving 24 states.

Qualifications:Required
  • High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or
  • High School GED General Studies, upon hire and
  • None, upon hire

Preferred
  • Work in a hospital setting and
  • Six months to one year switchboard operator experience
Employment Type: Full Time

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