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Emergency Call Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nuevo Water Company

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Field Maintenance II - Water Distribution / Treatment Operator

Nuevo, CA · On-site

$31.72 - $39.51/hr

This class differs from the Operator/Field I in that incumbents possess an increased knowledge and ... emergency call out with little or no notice. Any employee designated to serve on-call who ...

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Emergency Call Operator information

See California salary details

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$23

How much do emergency call operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for emergency call operator in California is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an emergency call operator?

To thrive as an Emergency Call Operator, you need strong communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and often a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic qualification. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone systems, and sometimes certifications like CPR are typically required. Excellent listening skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure make candidates stand out in this high-stress role. These skills are crucial for accurately gathering information, prioritizing emergencies, and efficiently coordinating first responders to ensure public safety.

How to get into emergency call handling?

To become an emergency call operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Training is usually provided on the job, and some agencies may require certification in emergency medical dispatch or similar areas.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by emergency call operators during high-pressure situations?

Emergency Call Operators often encounter high-stress scenarios, such as handling multiple calls during large-scale emergencies or communicating with distressed callers who may be panicked or unable to provide clear information. The role requires quick decision-making, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. Operators must efficiently gather critical details, dispatch appropriate resources, and sometimes provide life-saving instructions over the phone. While challenging, these situations are also highly rewarding, as operators play a crucial role in public safety and emergency response.

What is an emergency call operator?

Emergency Call Operators, also known as emergency dispatchers or 911 operators, are professionals who answer emergency phone calls and coordinate the appropriate response services. Their primary responsibility is to quickly and accurately gather information from callers in distress, determine the nature and location of the emergency, and dispatch police, fire, or medical personnel as needed. They must remain calm under pressure, provide instructions to callers, and document all details for emergency responders. This role is critical in ensuring that help arrives as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Is it worth it to become an emergency call operator?

Emergency call operators play a critical role in public safety by answering emergency calls, providing assistance, and dispatching services. The job often requires strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and may involve shift work, including nights and weekends. While it can be a rewarding career helping others, it also involves high stress and emotional demands, which should be considered when evaluating its worth.

What is the difference between Emergency Call Operator vs 911 Dispatcher?

AspectEmergency Call Operator911 Dispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; communication skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent; communication skills
Work EnvironmentCall centers, emergency response centersCall centers, emergency response centers
Industry UsagePublic safety, emergency servicesPublic safety, emergency services
Primary RoleAnswer emergency calls, gather informationDispatch emergency services based on calls

Emergency Call Operators answer incoming emergency calls and gather critical information, while 911 Dispatchers assign emergency responders based on that information. Both roles require strong communication skills and work in similar environments, but Dispatchers have additional responsibilities in coordinating response efforts.

What are popular job titles related to Emergency Call Operator jobs in California? For Emergency Call Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Emergency Call Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Emergency Call Operator jobs in California are:
Emergency Call Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Emergency Call Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,036 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Telephone Operator / Switchboard Operator

Ladgov Corporation

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$19.25 - $23.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position Overview

Viakorp Corporation is seeking professional and customer-focused Telephone Operators / Switchboard Operators to support the San Francisco VA Health Care System. This position serves as the first point of contact for patients, visitors, medical staff, and emergency personnel by providing prompt, courteous, and accurate telephone services. Operators are responsible for routing calls, handling emergency communications, operating paging systems, and ensuring uninterrupted communications for a major healthcare facility operating 24/7.

This is an on-site position supporting a federal healthcare facility where professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability are essential.

Work Schedule

This position supports 24/7 operations.

Coverage includes:

  • Monday – Friday: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
  • Weekends (Saturday & Sunday): 24-hour coverage
  • Federal Holidays: 24-hour coverage

Schedules may include:

  • Overnight shifts
  • Weekend shifts
  • Holiday shifts
Key Responsibilities
  • Answer incoming telephone calls promptly and professionally.
  • Route calls to the appropriate departments, clinics, and personnel.
  • Operate computerized telephone and switchboard systems.
  • Use overhead paging, radio, and emergency communication systems.
  • Respond appropriately to emergency situations, alarms, disaster notifications, and code calls.
  • Maintain accurate call logs and incident documentation.
  • Report telephone or communication equipment issues.
  • Assist callers with placing outgoing calls when needed.
  • Follow established procedures for emergency communications and security events.
  • Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times.
  • Provide courteous customer service to patients, visitors, and medical staff.
  • Work effectively during high call volumes while maintaining accuracy.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience as a telephone operator, switchboard operator, call center representative, receptionist, dispatcher, or customer service representative preferred.
  • Excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.
  • Strong computer and data entry skills.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Professional telephone etiquette.
  • Ability to remain calm during emergencies.
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to pass required federal background screening and credentialing.
Required Skills
  • Exceptional customer service
  • Professional communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Teamwork
  • Confidentiality and discretion
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously
Benefits

Viakorp offers eligible employees:

  • Competitive pay
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid federal holidays (as applicable)
  • Professional training
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Supportive team environment

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LADGOV logo

About LADGOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ladgov Corporation is a Small business headquartered in Williamsburg, VA. We provide solutions to our clients in the U.S and around the globe. Ladgov’s Capabilities span from providing Public Health services in Biomedical Engineering, Bio-Pharmaceutical Research to IT & Cyber Security Solutions, Project Management, Data Analytics as well as Religious Services, Facility Management, Education Support services, and Infrastructure Management Services. LADGOV Corporation is dedicated to supporting its customers both in the private and federal space by fulfilling its commitment to each requirement and achieving exceptional results. Our staff uses modern cutting-edge technology to provide the best solutions to your mission needs. Satisfaction guaranteed!

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Williamsburg, VA, US

Social media

Facebook

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