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Emergency Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Suffolk

Communications Operator - New

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$54K - $84K/yr

Answers Emergency 911 and non-emergency calls for service. Dispatches appropriate emergency ... Required Qualifications For Communications Operator (New Dispatcher): Graduation from high school ...

Pascua Yaqui Tribe

Communications Operator

Tucson, AZ

$40K/yr

The Communications Operator, under direct supervision, responds to all 911 emergency and non-emergency incoming calls for Police, Fire, and EMS The incumbent prioritizes the calls and dispatches ...

City of Vallejo

Communications Operator I

Vallejo, CA

$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.

CHI Saint Joseph London

Communications Operator

London, KY · On-site

$15.30 - $21.61/hr

... communication tasks, managing platforms, drafting content, and operating systems to ensure timely ... Responds quickly and accurately to incoming emergency signals and requests for announcing Hospital ...

CommonSpirit Health

Communications Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Demonstrates skills and ability to operate emergency communications equipment including telephone and paging notification systems. Required * High School Graduate General Studies, upon hire or * High ...

St Joseph Health

Communications Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.45/hr

Demonstrates skills and ability to operate emergency communications equipment including telephone and paging notification systems. Job Requirements Required * High School Graduate General Studies ...

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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:
Emergency Communications Operator jobs near you
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.
COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide a central reception function for the hospital that disseminates routine and emergency incident information.

  • Mobilize emergency services and personnel in response to crisis situations involving life or property.

  • Work as essential personnel during emergencies, pandemics, or facility needs, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as requested.

Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

654th of 663 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR
Job no: 5104815
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Williamsburg, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety
Title: COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR
State Role Title: Emergency Coordinator I
Hiring Range: Negotiable, Commensurate with Experience
Pay Band: 3
Agency: Dept Behavioral Health/Develop
Location: Eastern State Hospital
Agency Website: Jobs.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
Provide a customer service oriented central reception function for the hospital that disseminates routine and emergency incident information. 24 hours a day/7 day a week. Mobilize emergency services and personnel in response to crisis situations involving life or property. This position is considered essential personnel and would be required to work in the event of an emergency, pandemic, or facility need. All ESH positions are required to work different shifts to include nights, weekends and holidays, and/or overtime as requested.
Successful candidate should possess:
• Be able to satisfactorily complete or resolve simultaneous requests or tasks.
• Extensive years of experience in customer service with the ability to communicate clearly and
• professionally both verbally and in writing.
• Possess a strong work ethic and team player mentality.
• Ability to be flexible and able to work rotating shifts as well as weekends, holidays and occasional overtime.
• Ability to act in the capacity of essential personnel during emergency/crisis situations.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience providing customer service.
Able to attend Telecommunications School at the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Academy after start of employment.
Additional Considerations
Experience using multi-line telephone system and various office equipment.
Experience in a medical setting.
Experience in a Security Control Center.
Experience dispatching calls for security or law enforcement.
Experience monitoring fire alarm systems.
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Contact Information
Name: EASTERN STATE HOSPITAL
Phone: 757-208-7717
Email: Email application material not accepted
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Advertised: 12 May 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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