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Emergency Call Taker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Emergency Communications Call Taker The Emergency Communications Call Taker is responsible for handling routine and emergency 9-1-1 calls for service over various communications systems to Police ...

Call Taker

Old Hickory, TN · On-site

$37K - $42K/yr

The Dispatch Call Taker may at times be asked to broadcast orders to crews regarding runs ... Utilizes appropriate Emergency Medical Dispatch and company procedure to accurately determine the ...

Call Taker

Lakewood, TN · On-site

$37K - $42K/yr

The Dispatch Call Taker may at times be asked to broadcast orders to crews regarding runs ... Utilizes appropriate Emergency Medical Dispatch and company procedure to accurately determine the ...

In addition, the call taker, under Emergency Medical Dispatch protocol, will be required to take caller information, determine the nature of the run request, record pertinent information, and process ...

Call Taker

Nashville, TN · On-site

$37K - $42K/yr

Call Taker Old Hickory, TN 37138 Overview Position Type First Call Ambulance Category Dispatch ... Utilizes appropriate Emergency Medical Dispatch and company procedure to accurately determine the ...

Call Taker

Nashville, TN · On-site

$37K - $42K/yr

Call Taker Old Hickory, TN 37138 Overview Position Type First Call Ambulance Category Dispatch ... Utilizes appropriate Emergency Medical Dispatch and company procedure to accurately determine the ...

Call Taker

Winter Park, FL

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

The Emergency Communications Call Taker is responsible for handling routine and emergency 9-1-1 calls for service over various communications systems to Police, Fire, EMS and other City departments ...

Call Taker

Winter Park, FL · On-site

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS Opening Date: 04/13/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 4:00 PM Eastern Description Open Until Filled GENERAL PURPOSE: The Emergency Communications Call Taker is responsible for ...

In addition, the call taker, under Emergency Medical Dispatch protocol, will be required to take caller information, determine the nature of the run request, record pertinent information, and process ...

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Emergency Call Taker information

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How much do emergency call taker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for emergency call taker in the United States is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an emergency call taker?

Emergency Call Takers are professionals responsible for answering emergency calls such as 911 or other emergency numbers. They gather critical information from callers, assess the situation, and dispatch the appropriate emergency services, such as police, fire, or ambulance. Their role is vital in ensuring that help is sent quickly and accurately, often providing life-saving instructions to callers while help is on the way. Emergency Call Takers must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and make quick decisions based on the information provided.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an emergency call taker?

To thrive as an Emergency Call Taker, you need strong decision-making abilities, quick thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized emergency dispatch training. Proficiency in computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and familiarity with emergency protocols is essential. Outstanding communication, active listening, and emotional resilience help you effectively manage distressed callers and coordinate with emergency response teams. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring prompt, accurate emergency response and maintaining public safety during critical situations.

What challenges do emergency call takers face and how are they supported in managing stress?

Emergency Call Takers often handle high-pressure situations, including distressing or traumatic calls, which can be emotionally taxing. They must remain calm, think clearly, and communicate effectively to quickly gather information and dispatch appropriate resources. To support them, most agencies provide access to mental health resources, peer support programs, and regular debriefings. Ongoing training and a strong team environment also help Emergency Call Takers develop resilience and manage stress.

What is the difference between Emergency Call Taker vs Dispatch Operator?

AspectEmergency Call TakerDispatch Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma; CPR certification often preferredHigh school diploma; sometimes additional dispatch training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, emergency response centersEmergency vehicles, dispatch centers
Job RoleAnswer emergency calls, gather information, prioritize responsesSend emergency units, coordinate response efforts
Industry UsagePublic safety, emergency servicesPublic safety, emergency services

Emergency Call Takers primarily handle incoming calls, gathering critical information, while Dispatch Operators coordinate and send emergency responders. Both roles are essential in emergency services, often working closely but focusing on different stages of response.

How much do emergency call takers make?

Emergency call takers typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced dispatchers or those with specialized training can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials and benefits.
More about Emergency Call Taker jobs

What cities are hiring for Emergency Call Taker jobs?

Cities with the most Emergency Call Taker job openings:

What states have the most Emergency Call Taker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Emergency Call Taker jobs include:

Infographic showing various Emergency Call Taker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,197 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

EMS Emergency Call Taker

University Hospital

Newark, NJ • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Health System (San Antonio) rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

EMS Emergency Call Taker

The EMS Emergency Call Taker is responsible for receiving and triaging emergency and non-emergency calls using the Medical Priority Dispatch System and Fire Service Communications System. This role involves collecting critical information, delivering pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions, and coordinating the deployment of appropriate resources. The Call Taker monitors all communications to ensure efficiency and the safety of field units, operating under the guidance of an EMS Communications Supervisor. This position works primarily in the communications center, but may assist in the field as needed, completing all required documentation and contributing to the smooth operation of EMS services while professionally representing University Hospital and its EMS team.

Responsibilities

What You'll Do

  • Answers and triages emergency and non-emergency calls using the Medical Priority Dispatch System and Fire Service Communications System
  • Gathers and processes essential caller information quickly and accurately
  • Provides pre-arrival and post-dispatch instructions to callers as needed
  • Dispatches and coordinates the response of appropriate EMS resources
  • Monitors radio and phone communications to ensure operational efficiency and responder safety
  • Operates under the supervision of an EMS Communications Supervisor
  • Primarily functions within the EMS communications center, with the ability to assist in the field as required
Qualifications

What You'll Bring

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • One (1) year of emergency services experience preferred
  • One (1) year of public safety dispatching experience preferred
  • Fire Dispatch certification preferred
  • Must pass a medical evaluation and respirator fit test, and be able to wear an N95 mask in compliance with PEOSHA standards
  • Bilingual English/Spanish skills preferred

Required Credentials (must be current and in good standing):

  • NJ Basic Telecommunicator Certification
  • NJ Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) Certification
  • Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) Certification (must be obtained within 1 year of hire)
  • American Heart Association (AHA) BLS for the Healthcare Provider
  • Incident Command System (ICS) Level 100 Certification
  • National Incident Management System (NIMS) Awareness Certification

What We Offer

  • Medical & Prescription Drug Coverage
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) & Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Professional Development

Compensation (NJ Job Transparency Law)

In compliance with New Jersey's Pay Transparency Act, the hourly range for this position is TE/1550 Probationary Rate $23.57 - Job Rate $24.07- Two (2) Year Rate $24.79. University Hospital considers multiple factors when determining compensation, including (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's relevant work experience, education and training, key skills, internal equity, market data, and organizational needs.

University Hospital is one of the nation's leading academic medical centers. As the principal teaching affiliate of Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the only state-certified Level 1 Trauma Center in Northern New Jersey, University Hospital is training the next generation of physicians and advancing science to discovery while taking exceptional care of patients, regardless of their financial situation.

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. If you want to grow your career in healthcare while serving a vibrant community, we'd love to meet you


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