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Emergency Communications Operator Jobs in California

City of Visalia, CA

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights ... Communications Operators certified and assigned as "Communications Training Officers" will receive ...

City of Visalia

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Description The City of Visalia Police Department is recruiting for Communications Operator ... As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights ...

Marshallmedical

Communications Operator

Placerville, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.15/hr

This position facilitates the communication of emergency situations with an overhead page, radio communication or electronic page. The Communication Operator is also the hospital's first contact with ...

City of Burbank, CA

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Burbank, CA · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Under general supervision, to answer emergency (911) and non-emergency phone lines, to maintain ... Essential Functions Serves as an Operator in the BPD Communications Center on a shift basis ...

City of Burbank

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Burbank, CA

$68K - $94K/yr

Under general supervision, to answer emergency (911) and non-emergency phone lines, to maintain ... Essential Functions Serves as an Operator in the BPD Communications Center on a shift basis ...

City of Vallejo

Communications Operator I

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$75K - $91K/yr

Dispatches law enforcement or other emergency personnel and equipment. Operates a variety of ... Some experience operating radio, computer, or other communication equipment is highly desirable.

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All JobsEmergency Communications Operator JobsEmergency Communications Operator Jobs in California

Emergency Communications Operator information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$47.9K

$61.2K

How much do emergency communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency communications operator in California is $47,903.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $54,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an emergency communications operator?

Emergency Communications Operators, also known as 911 dispatchers, are professionals responsible for receiving and processing emergency and non-emergency calls. They gather essential information from callers, dispatch the appropriate emergency services such as police, fire, or medical personnel, and provide critical instructions to callers until help arrives. These operators play a vital role in public safety by remaining calm under pressure, multitasking efficiently, and communicating clearly during stressful situations.

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

To thrive as an Emergency Communications Operator, you need strong decision-making abilities, multitasking skills, clear verbal communication, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and sometimes certifications such as APCO or NENA are typically required. High emotional resilience, calmness under pressure, and active listening are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure efficient emergency response, accurate information relay, and public safety during critical incidents.

What are some common challenges emergency communications operators face during high-stress incidents, and how can they effectively manage them?

Emergency Communications Operators often encounter high-pressure situations, such as handling multiple emergency calls simultaneously or relaying critical information during crises. These challenges require quick thinking, emotional resilience, and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently. Many operators use techniques like structured protocols, teamwork, and regular stress-management training to maintain composure and accuracy. Support from supervisors and colleagues, as well as ongoing professional development, also play key roles in helping operators navigate these demanding scenarios.

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

AspectEmergency Communications Operator911 Dispatcher
CredentialsCPR certification, communication trainingCPR certification, communication training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, emergency response centersCall centers, emergency response centers
Industry UsagePublic safety, emergency servicesPublic safety, emergency services

Emergency Communications Operators and 911 Dispatchers often share similar roles, including handling emergency calls and providing critical information. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, and both require similar certifications and work in comparable environments. The main difference is that '911 Dispatcher' is a more specific term used primarily in the United States, while 'Emergency Communications Operator' can be a broader term used in various regions. Overall, they perform the same essential functions in emergency response systems.

How much do emergency communications operators earn?

Emergency communications operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, specialized training, and overtime shifts in emergency response environments.

Is it hard to be hired as an emergency communications operator?

Becoming an emergency communications operator typically requires completing specialized training, passing a background check, and obtaining relevant certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) or Public Safety Telecommunicator certification. Hiring can be competitive, and candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and often work irregular hours or shifts.

What are popular job titles related to Emergency Communications Operator jobs in CA?

For Emergency Communications Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Emergency Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Emergency Communications Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 86% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,903 per year, or $23 per hour.

Communications Operator - PD

Salinas, CA

Salinasvalleyhealth
See more jobs at Salinasvalleyhealthexternal

$28.86 - $31.97/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

Department:Telecommunications

The Communications Operator serves as the central point of contact for our Salinas Valley Health Medical Center. This role manages incoming and outgoing telephone communications, operating the Salinas Valley Health phone system and ensures seamless communications between patients, families, staff, providers, and other external callers. The Communications Operator handles a wide range of internal and external inquiries while prioritizing emergency code call management. This role requires precision, critical thinking, and the ability to maintain calm while executing procedures efficiently and accurately. Works under the supervision of the Telecommunications Supervisor. Performs other duties as assigned.

Telephone Operations and Call Management:

  • Operates the Salinas Valley Health telephone system to handle inbound and outbound high call volumes.

  • Professional Communication: Answer incoming calls, emails, and other communications in a professional, courteous, and efficient manner.

  • Skillfully de-escalate difficult or sensitive situations with callers, demonstrating empathy and problem-solving skills to resolve issues effectively.

  • Operate telecommunications equipment, paging systems, and emergency communications systems.

  • 24/7 Monitoring & Response: Actively monitor multiple communication channels for emergency code calls (e.g., Code Red, Code Blue, Code Yellow, etc.) and respond immediately according to established protocols.

  • Overhead Paging & Dissemination: Accurately and clearly initiate and manage overhead code paging system to broadcast critical information to designated personnel and departments.

  • This position also handles a diverse array of communications, providing professional and efficient service, and adeptly de-escalating challenging situations as necessary.

Patient and Visitor Services:

  • Provide general information about Healthcare System services, visiting hours and facility policies.

  • Monitors the building access system as required.

  • Connect callers with patient rooms while adhering to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy regulations. Assist patients and families with room location and visitor directions.

Customer Service Excellence:

  • Provide compassionate and professional service to patients, families, and visitors.

  • Handle difficult or emotional calls with empathy and appropriate resources

  • Maintain calm demeanor during high-stress situations

  • Follow up on caller concerns and ensure resolution

  • Represent the facility positively in all communications

Information Management:

  • Log and track all emergency code calls, including time, date, nature of emergency, and actions taken, ensuring accurate record-keeping.

  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all interactions and communications as required by policies and procedures.

Emergency Communications:

  • Respond to emergency calls and activate appropriate response protocols, policies and procedures

  • Maintain clear and effective communications with emergency services, internal security, medical staff, and other relevant departments during emergency events.

  • Protocol Adherence: Strictly adhere to all established emergency response protocols, policies, and procedures.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education: High school diploma or GED required.

Licensure: None.

Experience: Six months recent experience as an operator, or the equivalent required. Fluency in Spanish is required for this position. The ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking callers for purposes of executing the responsibilities of this position.

Salary Range: The hourly rate for this position is $28.86 - $31.97. The range displayed on this job posting reflects the target for new hire salaries for this position.

Job Specifications:

Union: NUHW Work Shift: Variable FTE: 0.0 Scheduled Hours: 0

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Apply