1

Emergency Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Visalia, CA · On-site

$63K - $79K/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 ...

Communications Operator City of Edinburg in Edinburg, TX is actively seeking a dedicated ... When you are not out in the city, you assist in communicating with emergency personnel, obtaining ...

Communications Operator City of Edinburg in Edinburg, TX is actively seeking a dedicated ... When you are not out in the city, you assist in communicating with emergency personnel, obtaining ...

Communications Operator

Bishop, CA · On-site

$4.5K - $6.2K/mo

Under general supervision the Communications Operator receives emergency and nonemergency calls; dispatches police, fire and medical emergency units; maintains contact with personnel in the field ...

Communications Operator City of Edinburg in Edinburg, TX is actively seeking a dedicated ... When you are not out in the city, you assist in communicating with emergency personnel, obtaining ...

Under general supervision the Communications Operator receives emergency and nonemergency calls; dispatches police, fire and medical emergency units; maintains contact with personnel in the field ...

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 ...

Communications Operator

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $24.50/hr

The Communications Operator creates an exceptional impression of Froedtert South in all ... emergency code calls procedures and performing mail room functions and clerical duties as assigned.

Communications Operator

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $24.50/hr

The Communications Operator creates an exceptional impression of Froedtert South in all ... emergency code calls procedures and performing mail room functions and clerical duties as assigned.

Conduct emergency service tests. I. Communicate disaster information and weather warnings to the ... H. 2. 1. CJIS terminal operator certification, and First Aid/CPR/AED certification. H. 3. Ability ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Emergency Communications Operator information

See salary details

$30K

$48.5K

$62K

How much do emergency communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for emergency communications operator 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.

What is the highest paid dispatcher?

The highest paid emergency communications operators, or dispatchers, typically work in large metropolitan areas or for specialized agencies, earning salaries that can exceed $70,000 annually. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the complexity of the dispatch environment influence salary levels, with some specialized or supervisory roles earning higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Emergency Communications Operator, and why are they important?

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 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.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a 911 dispatcher typically requires completing a training program, passing a background check, and demonstrating strong communication and multitasking skills. Hiring can be competitive, and candidates often need to meet specific certification or licensing requirements depending on the jurisdiction.

What qualifications do I need to be a 911 dispatcher?

To become a 911 dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and multitasking skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Some agencies require completion of emergency communication training and certification, such as the APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification. Prior experience in customer service or emergency response can be beneficial.

What are Emergency Communications Operators?

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 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.

How much money do 911 dispatchers get paid?

Emergency Communications Operators, or 911 dispatchers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000, though this can vary based on location, experience, and certifications. Many dispatchers work in high-stress environments and may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.
More about Emergency Communications Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Emergency Communications Operator jobs? Cities with the most Emergency Communications Operator job openings:
What states have the most Emergency Communications Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Emergency Communications Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Emergency Communications Operator jobs? For Emergency Communications Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Emergency Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,539 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

$63K - $79K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Visalia Police Department is recruiting for Communications Operator (Dispatcher). The recruitment is open continuously and will be used to fill current and future vacancies as they arise. A typing certificate dated within one year of the filing deadline MUST be submitted verifying typing speed of 40 corrected WPM before hire.

Click here for the recruitment announcement. THE DIVISION The Operations Division consists of the Patrol Bureau and Communications Unit that provide patrol, traffic, commercial, and emergency communications services for the Visalia Police Department. The Patrol Bureau operates out of two District Substations, one in each policing district, and the Visalia Emergency Communications Center.

In 2023, the Department fielded more than 145,000 police calls for service. Examples of Duties THE POSITION The Communications Operator works under direct supervision of the Communications Supervisor. They will receive and transmit routine and emergency telephone and radio traffic, dispatch and coordinate police, fire and animal control.

They will maintain and process a variety of communications paperwork, records, and logs. As an Emergency Services employee, the applicant must be available for all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. Qualifications / Requirements THE IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate will be capable of assertively taking command of situations in a sensitive yet straightforward manner, while showing consideration and respect to others, and will have the ability to deal with stressful and pressured situations in an efficient and controlled manner.

Candidates must demonstrate good decision making skills under pressure, work with minimum direct supervision, and be a team player with a positive attitude. Additionally, candidates should have the ability to work all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge, skill and ability is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skill and abilities would be: Possession of high school diploma or GED. One year of 911 emergency dispatching experience with a law enforcement agency, within the last three years. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Possession of a California P.O.S.T

Dispatcher Basic Certificate. Keyboarding speed of 40 CWPM (correct words per minute). Possession of a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment.

TYPING CERTIFICATE DATED WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE FILING DEADLINE AND DISPATCHER BASIC CERTIFICATE MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH APPLICATION Additional Information SELECTION PROCESS Application and supplemental materials will be evaluated and applicants who appear to be most qualified will be invited to participate in a job related interview and/or examination process. Successful candidates may be required to pass a background, physical examination, and/or drug screen. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS The City of Visalia offers a competitive total compensation package that includes: $5,268 - $6,622 Monthly CalPERS retirement program Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Longevity Pay Onsite City Health and Wellness Clinic (no out of pocket expenses) Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave and much more..

Review the Benefits tab for more information. COMMUNITY OVERVIEW If work-life balance is important to you, consider living in a thriving community that offers the most affordable housing in California with a typical commute time of less than 20 minutes. With a population of over 146,000, Visalia offers small town charm with metropolitan amenities.

Visalia has a world class health care system, our own Sequoia Symphony Orchestra, a flourishing arts community, a minor league baseball team, a downtown convention center, and numerous fine dining establishments. As the Tulare County seat, Visalia is the principal retail center in the region, and home to several large industrial employers. Visalia has a vibrant downtown district, safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, institutions for higher learning, and low cost of living.

The City has many community parks, organized team sports, a municipal golf course and private country club, a multi-sport family-oriented regional sports park, and numerous outdoor and recreational activities. Located in the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley, Visalia offers easy access to the nearby mountains, national parks, lakes and rivers which provide year-round opportunities for sports and recreation within an hour or less. Visalia was ranked as the top Central Valley community and one of seven California cities in the top 25 of Gallup Sharecare's latest State of American Well Being Index.

Our strong sense of community and social well-being keeps Visalians happy, healthy and moving forward. Come discover all Visalia has to offer. The City of Visalia is an equal opportunity employer.