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Dispatch Center Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Provides highly service-oriented dispatch services, responsible for maintaining effective and efficient communications among the Public Safety dispatch center, officers in the field, outside ...

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Dispatch Center information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$62.3K

$102.6K

How much do dispatch center jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for dispatch center in Virginia is $62,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $70,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dispatch center?

A dispatch center is a facility where operators coordinate the movement of vehicles, personnel, or equipment in response to service requests or emergencies. These centers are commonly used in public safety (such as police, fire, and EMS), transportation, and delivery services. Dispatchers communicate with field units using radios, phones, or computer systems to ensure efficient and timely responses. Their role is crucial in managing resources, prioritizing calls, and maintaining safety. Dispatch centers often operate 24/7 to provide continuous support to their teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a dispatch center role?

To excel in a Dispatch Center role, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dispatch software, two-way radio systems, and geographic information systems (GIS) is typically required. Effective communication, stress management, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this high-pressure environment. These skills ensure timely and accurate coordination of resources, which is critical for safety and operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a dispatch center, and how can they be managed?

Dispatch center roles often involve managing high-pressure situations, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, and responding quickly to emergencies or service requests. Balancing the need for accuracy with the demand for speed can be challenging, especially during peak times or crisis events. Successful dispatchers use strong communication, problem-solving skills, and stress management techniques to maintain efficiency and composure. Many centers offer training and ongoing support to help staff develop these vital skills and foster a collaborative team environment.

How do you become a dispatch center?

To work in a dispatch center, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and experience with computer systems or dispatch software. Some positions may require relevant certifications or training, and familiarity with the specific industry, such as transportation or emergency services, is beneficial.

Is it hard to get hired as a dispatch center?

Getting hired as a dispatcher can vary depending on the industry and location, but generally requires good communication skills, organization, and sometimes relevant certifications or experience. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain, while specialized roles might require additional training or knowledge of dispatch software. The hiring process often includes interviews and background checks.
Infographic showing various Dispatch Center job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,349 per year, or $30 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Dispatch Center Manager)

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


United States Department Of Agriculture rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
These positions serve as an Assistant Dispatch Center Manager located in an interagency dispatch center that is part of a fire organization.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for the Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's Federal Wage System Qualifications Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-08: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GW-07 grade level in the Federal service; OR two full years (36 semester/54 quarter hours) of successfully completed graduate level education or master's degree if the coursework is directly related to the work of the position (such as forestry, range management, agriculture); OR combinations of graduate level education that is directly related to the position (in excess of 18 semester/27 quarter hours) and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Examples of specialized experience may include: Prioritizing distribution of aid, supplies, and equipment in cases of simultaneous wildland fire incidents. Maintaining and assisting in developing dispatching guides, staffing and action guides, mobilization plans, Haz-Mat response/spill plans, fire management plans, directives, and/or reference materials. Coordinating exchanges of information with other federal agencies as well as municipal and state fire and law enforcement agencies.
For the GW-09: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GW-08 grade level in the Federal service; OR two full years (36 semester/54 quarter hours) of successfully completed graduate level education or master's degree if the coursework is directly related to the work of the position (such as forestry, range management, agriculture); OR combinations of graduate level education that is directly related to the position (in excess of 18 semester/27 quarter hours) and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Examples of specialized experience may include: Performing dispatch duties such as coordinating ground and air transportation and determining the nature of the resources needed including personnel, equipment, and services required to respond to varying levels of crisis. Assisting in preparing cost and budgetary data for comparative analysis, flight justification, payment documents, and flight plans for contract and on-call personnel. Assisting in implementing and maintaining mobilization plans, emergency and disaster plans, and dispatch policies and procedures. Assisting in evaluating and coordinating operational situations to ensure the distribution of adequate resources.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Expanded Dispatch Support Dispatcher (EDSD).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:See QUALIFICATIONS section for education requirements.Employment Type: OTHER

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