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Emergency Communication Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nrel

Emergency Communications Specialist

Golden, CO

$55K - $73K/yr

NLR currently has an opening for an Emergency Communication Specialists (ECS) position on the Emergency Management team. The ECS plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of NLR ...

Nrel

Emergency Communications Specialist

Boulder, CO

$55K - $73K/yr

NLR currently has an opening for an Emergency Communication Specialists (ECS) position on the Emergency Management team. The ECS plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of NLR ...

County of Kaua'i, HI

$9.0K/mo

Receives telephonic communication from the public seeking police, fire, medical and other requests for emergency assistance; * Elicits relevant/accurate information and facts necessary to ensure ...

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All JobsEmergency Communication Jobs

Emergency Communication information

See salary details

$30K

$48.5K

$62K

How much do emergency communication jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency communication in the United States is $48,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $55,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as it requires passing written exams, background checks, and sometimes psychological evaluations. Candidates often need strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and relevant training or certifications, which can influence hiring difficulty.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Emergency Communication, and why are they important?

To thrive in Emergency Communication, you need strong decision-making abilities, clear verbal and written communication skills, and a foundational understanding of emergency protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or relevant certifications like APCO or NENA. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and geographic information systems (GIS) is essential. Remaining calm under pressure, multitasking, and demonstrating empathy are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate information relay, effective coordination with first responders, and timely support for individuals in crisis situations.

How long does it take to become an EMD?

Becoming an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) typically requires completing a training program that lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency and state requirements. Candidates usually need to pass written exams and skills assessments, and some states require certification or licensure before starting the role.

What is the role of an emergency communicator?

An emergency communicator is responsible for relaying critical information during emergencies, coordinating communication between responders and the public, and ensuring timely dissemination of alerts. They often work with communication systems such as radios, phones, and computer software, and may require certifications in emergency communication protocols. Their role is vital for effective emergency response and public safety management.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Emergency Communication roles and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Emergency Communication often face high-pressure situations, including rapidly evolving emergencies and communicating with distressed callers. Managing stress, maintaining clear and calm communication, and quickly prioritizing tasks are essential skills. Working closely with first responders and dispatch teams, staying up-to-date with protocols, and participating in regular training can help address these challenges. Supportive team environments and access to counseling or stress management resources are also common ways organizations assist their staff.

What are emergency communication jobs?

Emergency communication jobs involve managing and relaying information during crisis situations, such as natural disasters, accidents, or public safety threats. Professionals in this field, such as 911 dispatchers or emergency communication specialists, coordinate between the public, first responders, and relevant agencies to ensure accurate and timely information exchange. Their role is crucial for keeping communities safe, providing critical instructions, and facilitating efficient emergency response. These jobs require strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and proficiency with communication technology.

How much is a 911 dispatcher paid?

The average salary for a 911 dispatcher in the United States ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many dispatchers work in shift schedules that include nights, weekends, and holidays, and some positions require certification in emergency communication protocols.

What is the difference between Emergency Communication vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectEmergency CommunicationEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsCPR certification, communication trainingCPR certification, dispatch training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, emergency response centersEmergency call centers, dispatch stations
Employer & IndustryPublic safety agencies, emergency servicesPolice, fire, EMS agencies
Common Search & ComparisonEmergency CommunicationEmergency Dispatcher

Emergency Communication involves managing and relaying information during emergencies, often focusing on communication systems and protocols. Emergency Dispatchers directly coordinate response units like police, fire, or EMS, dispatching personnel to incidents. While both roles require similar certifications and work in emergency response environments, Emergency Communication emphasizes communication systems, whereas Emergency Dispatchers focus on operational coordination.

More about Emergency Communication jobs
What cities are hiring for Emergency Communication jobs? Cities with the most Emergency Communication job openings:
What states have the most Emergency Communication jobs? States with the most job openings for Emergency Communication jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Emergency Communication jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Emergency Communication jobs are:
Emergency Communication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Emergency Communication job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,539 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Emergency Communications Specialist

City of Burlington, VT

Burlington, VT • On-site

$67K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Salary : $67,589.60 - $75,355.90 Annually
Location : BPD - Antonio B. Pomerleau Building, One North Avenue Burlington, VT
Job Type: Regular Full Time Non Exempt
Job Number: BPD Emergency Comms Specialist
Department: Police
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 8/10/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME
General Purpose
This position receives, records, and processes emergency and non-emergency requests for police, fire and ambulance assistance, and dispatches units appropriately; responds to routine inquiries or referrals. Monitors radio traffic and operate computer systems required to complete the task; provides communications link between police/fire/ambulance response units and outside public service agencies. In addition this position acts as an internal routing unit, receiving calls from the public, other City departments, etc., and directs the call to the appropriate Police Department personnel.
Union Affiliation: American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME)
Pay Grade 17: $32.50 - $36.23 Hourly
Remote Tier 1: Zero (0) days remote/week
Essential Job Functions
  • Interact with callers requesting emergency / non-emergency response or service from the community or public agencies.
  • Uses established protocols and the computer-aided dispatch system (CAD) to determine appropriate actions to be taken.
  • Monitors and maintains the location and status of police, fire and other authorized agency united in the field.
  • Answer emergency and non-emergency calls from incoming lines, including 911 and special service lines (e.g. hearing-impaired). Elicit facts from the caller, determine type of assistance required for the situation, and relay necessary information to the appropriate source i.e., police officers, fire field units, emergency ambulance services, mutual aid agencies and volunteers, City, County, State or Federal agencies.
  • Participates with the Administration in the development, implementation, and review of procedures.
  • Monitor radio communication channels for police, fire, ambulance; Department of Public Works; local government; and relay information to the appropriate authority.
  • Record and maintain accurate computerized summaries of all emergency call using C.A.D. system.
  • File and organize resource information including but not limited to sensitive information, in a discreet and professional manner by maintaining confidentiality.
  • Established Emergency Communication Specialists will train new ECS employees using the department's Dispatch Training Manual.

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements
  • Ability to actively support City diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts within stated job responsibilities and work effectively across diverse cultures and constituencies.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as evidenced by ongoing trainings and professional development.
  • High school diploma or equivalent (Associate Degree in Communication or Business Preferred) required.
  • Must successfully pass the written, typing examinations, panel interview and background check conducted by the Department.
  • After acceptance of conditional offer of employment applicant must pass physical examination by the Medical Board.
  • Emergency Communications Specialist will obtain and maintain Vermont Criminal Information Center (VCIC) and National Criminal Information Center (NCIC) certifications upon starting the position.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to operate Police and Fire computer equipment, a multi-channel/function radio console, a multi-line telephone system, a TTY/TDD, as well as Police, fire, and medical emergency alarm receiving equipment and video monitoring equipment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the street system and the geography of the Burlington area, with some knowledge of law enforcement, public safety and/or fire science procedures preferred.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office preferred
  • Ability to maintain a positive customer service attitude at all time with public, user agency members, co-workers and supervisors.
  • Must be able and willing to work overnights, weekends, holidays and overtime shifts.
  • Regular attendance is necessary and is essential to meeting the expectations of the job functions.
  • Ability to understand and comply with City standards, safety rules and personnel policies.

Additional Information
Promoting a culture that reveres diversity and equity
The City of Burlington is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we are strongly committed to creating a dynamic and equitable work-force that mirrors the population and world that we serve. We do not discriminate on the basis of political or religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, crime victim status, veteran status, disability, HIV positive status, or genetic information in employment or the provision of services.
In addition to being an equal opportunity employer we actively encourage applicants who can contribute to our growing diversity to apply.
Applications for our employment opportunities are only accepted online through our website.
For accessibility information or alternative formats, please contact Human Resources Department at or .
The City of Burlington is proud to offer full time employees a comprehensive benefits program that includes:
  • Medical/Dental Insurance Coverage
  • Prescription Drug Coverage
  • Flexible Spending Programs
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Leave (Sick and Vacation)
  • Pension Plan
  • Contributory Retirement Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Discounted Gym Memberships
  • Free Yoga Membership to Sangha Studios (Burlington, Williston & online)
  • Tuition Discounts for Champlain College TruEd
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Bonus Incentives Program
  • Local & National Store Discounts
  • Subsidized Transportation Options
  • Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

For additional details please visit
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess the ability to operate Police and Fire computer equipment, a multi-channel/function radio console, a multi-line telephone system, a TTY/TDD, as well as Police, Fire, and medical emergency alarm receiving and video monitoring equipment?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you able and willing to work overnights, weekends, holidays, and overtime shifts?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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