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Emergency Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

ClearanceJobs

EOC Operator Jobs

Washington, DC · On-site

Maintains policies and procedures for specific emergency response, continuity planning and disaster ... Microsoft Windows Operating Systems, Microsoft applications suite and web-based application ...

Leidos

EOC Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Maintains policies and procedures for specific emergency response, continuity planning and disaster ... Windows Operating Systems, Microsoft applications suite and web-based application environments.

Prestige Tree Experts

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Monday-Friday + Overtime & Emergency Work Year-Round Opportunity This Isn't Just Another Driving ...

Prestige Tree Experts

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Monday-Friday + Overtime & Emergency Work Year-Round Opportunity This Isn't Just Another Driving ...

Prestige Tree Experts

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Monday-Friday + Overtime & Emergency Work Year-Round Opportunity This Isn't Just Another Driving ...

Prestige Tree Experts

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Monday-Friday + Overtime & Emergency Work Year-Round Opportunity This Isn't Just Another Driving ...

NVA

Emergency Veterinarian

Annapolis, MD · On-site

AAVEC has its own dedicated advance operating suite as well as dedicated advanced procedure room, allowing our Emergency Doctors to cut regularly and scope for foreign bodies. We are equipped to ...

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All JobsEmergency Operator JobsEmergency Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Emergency Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$24

$27

How much do emergency operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for emergency operator in Washington, DC is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an emergency operator?

Emergency Operators, also known as 911 dispatchers or emergency dispatchers, are trained professionals who receive and manage emergency calls from the public. They gather essential information, assess the situation, and coordinate the appropriate emergency response, such as police, fire, or medical services. Emergency Operators play a critical role in ensuring that help is dispatched quickly and efficiently, often providing life-saving instructions to callers before first responders arrive. Their work requires excellent communication skills, the ability to stay calm under pressure, and knowledge of emergency procedures.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an emergency operator?

To thrive as an Emergency Operator, you need excellent communication, multitasking abilities, and a strong understanding of emergency protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized dispatcher training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and possibly certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) are typically required. Outstanding stress management, decision-making, and empathy help you remain calm and effective during high-pressure situations. These skills ensure that critical information is relayed accurately and efficiently, directly impacting emergency response outcomes and public safety.

What challenges do emergency operators face and how are they supported?

Emergency Operators often encounter high-pressure scenarios where they must quickly assess situations, provide clear instructions, and coordinate with emergency responders, all while maintaining composure. The emotional intensity of handling urgent calls, sometimes involving life-or-death situations, can be challenging. To support operators, many organizations provide ongoing training in crisis communication, regular debriefing sessions, and access to mental health resources. Teamwork and strong supervisory support also play a crucial role in managing stress and ensuring effective responses.

What is the difference between Emergency Operator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectEmergency OperatorEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CPR certification often preferredHigh school diploma, emergency communication training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, emergency response centersDispatch centers, emergency services offices
Employer & Industry UsagePolice, fire, EMS agenciesPolice, fire, EMS agencies
Common Search & ComparisonEmergency OperatorEmergency Dispatcher

Emergency Operators and Emergency Dispatchers often perform similar roles in emergency response, handling calls and coordinating services. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, Emergency Operators typically focus on initial call intake and basic assistance, whereas Emergency Dispatchers are more involved in coordinating and dispatching emergency units. Both roles require communication skills and emergency response knowledge, but their specific duties and training may vary depending on the agency.

How easy is it to get hired as an emergency operator?

Getting hired as an emergency operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations. Employers often conduct background checks and may require certification or training, which can vary by region but generally involves completing a training program before employment.

What do emergency operators do?

Emergency operators answer emergency calls and assess the situation to dispatch appropriate services such as police, fire, or medical personnel. They gather critical information, provide instructions to callers, and maintain communication until help arrives, often working in a call center environment with specialized communication tools.

What are popular job titles related to Emergency Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

For Emergency Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Emergency Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Emergency Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Emergency Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Emergency Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,537 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

EOC Operator Jobs

ClearanceJobs

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Cbrne Network Monitor

This position will monitor all Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) network activity in a government Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Candidate will be responsible for resolving technical problems and answering queries by telephone in support of internal and/or outside customer computer hardware, software, and network devices. May route calls to technical specialists. Candidate will be responsible for performing a wide variety of nonstandard complex tasks using advanced techniques and requiring knowledge of CBRNE disciplines. Maintains policies and procedures for specific emergency response, continuity planning and disaster recovery operations. Maintain a working knowledge and understanding of the technology used in supporting the EOC and response procedures. Candidate must understand daily, monthly, and annual job duties/training requirements may change as the needs of the customer change. Candidate must pass an annual EOC assessment and maintain customer approval to work independently. Candidate must be able to follow written and oral instructions regarding operational procedures in an EOC environment and carry out tasks with minimal supervision and oversight. Demonstrate the ability to perform all duties in a tactful and professional manner during high stress emergency situations; clear communication and technical writing skills, proficient in Microsoft Windows Operating Systems, Microsoft applications suite and web-based application environments. Candidate must demonstrate the ability to manage information between multiple organizations over numerous communications vectors such as phone lines, software interfaces and web-based tools during emergency operations. Candidate must be able to combine communication and problem-solving skills when dealing with representatives from various organizations and information sources during emergent and non-emergent conditions.

Basic Qualifications

  • Must have active SECRET security clearance. TOP SECRET preferred.
  • Three (3) or more years of experience in an EOC, command post environment, CBRNE environment, crisis management center, or public safety answering point.
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule outside of the standard 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. hours when the workload dictates doing so.
  • Demonstrate ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks appropriately and efficiently in a high-pressure environment.
  • Ability to communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels verbally and in writing in a team-based environment.
  • Ability to quickly learn and assimilate specific customized software tools and products in support of the emergency operations center, including the following categories of tools: Geographical Information System (GIS), video camera displays, emergency notification systems, device-specific displays, atmospheric plume models and displays, and building architectural displays.

Preferred Qualifications

  • 6 years of emergency services or CBRNE experience, or 2 years of experience with a relevant bachelor's degree (STEM, Homeland Security, Emergency Management).
  • HAZWOPER training and/or certification.
  • Experience with decision support software and/or network management software.
  • NIMS ICS300 & ICS400 certifications or FEMA Basic Academy.

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