2

Entry Level 911 Dispatcher Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level 911 Dispatcher information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$20

$32

How much do entry level 911 dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 911 dispatcher in Indiana is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become an entry level 911 dispatcher?

To become an entry-level 911 dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a dispatcher training program, and pass background checks and a medical exam. Some states or agencies may require certification in emergency medical dispatch or other relevant skills, and strong communication and multitasking abilities are essential for the role.

What is an entry level 911 dispatcher?

An Entry Level 911 Dispatcher is responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering critical information, and dispatching the appropriate emergency services such as police, fire, or medical personnel. They must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and accurately document details. Training is typically provided on procedures, computer systems, and crisis management. This role requires strong multitasking skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and a commitment to public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level 911 dispatcher?

To thrive as an Entry Level 911 Dispatcher, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Familiarity with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone systems, and sometimes completion of state or agency-specific dispatcher certification are important. Attention to detail, active listening, and emotional resilience are highly valued soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate information gathering, swift response coordination, and effective support for both callers and emergency personnel.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level 911 dispatcher?

Getting hired as an entry-level 911 dispatcher can be competitive, as it often requires passing background checks, completing training, and demonstrating strong communication skills. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some agencies prefer prior experience or certifications in emergency communication. The hiring process may include written exams, interviews, and psychological assessments.

How long does it take to become an entry level 911 dispatcher?

Becoming an entry-level 911 dispatcher typically involves completing a training program that lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency. Candidates usually need to pass background checks, obtain certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), and develop skills in communication and computer-aided dispatch systems before starting the role.

What are the typical work shifts like for entry level 911 dispatchers?

Entry level 911 dispatchers usually work in shifts that cover 24/7 operations, which can include overnights, weekends, and holidays. Shifts may be 8, 10, or 12 hours depending on the agency, and some overtime is often required, especially during emergencies or staffing shortages. New dispatchers often start with less desirable shifts, such as nights or weekends, but can gain priority for preferred shifts with experience and seniority. Working as part of a team in a fast-paced control center, dispatchers must be prepared for varying call volumes and the unpredictable nature of emergencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Indiana? For Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,603 per year, or $21 per hour.

$56K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Overview The purpose and mission of the Metropolitan Emergency Services Agency is to provide operation and management of the Division of Emergency Communications - 911 center, Division of Emergency Management, and the Division of Public Safety Communications - technology infrastructure to the City's Indianapolis metropolitan areas and Marion County.The agency is able to do this by cultivating a productive, collaborative, and compliant work environment in order for our workforce to meet the needs of the constituents of Indianapolis and Marion County. This position is responsible for dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for services for either EMS & Fire or Police Services. The position could be dual trained at entry level or later for dispatching EMS, Fire and Police services

The Incumbent is responsible for receiving and evaluating emergency and non-emergency calls for fire, medical, or police services agencies dependent on the telecommunicator's area of expertise and training. The incumbent dispatches appropriate units and following established protocols. Incumbent is required to direct emergency and non-emergency calls for service to fire, EMS, and police telecommunicators when unable to provide the necessary assistance to the caller due to training limitations.

Incumbent is responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency radio traffic and function as a critical part of every incident by facilitating request and insuring procedures and protocol are followed. Incumbent follows the required knowledge of established policies and procedures, which controls most of the actions in this position. Incumbent must also rely on training and experience in cases when an incident falls outside of established standard operating procedures.Incumbent must be able to quickly assess any incident, determine the necessary response and be able to summons supervisory assistance when needed

Incumbent in this position shift may vary. Position reports to the Supervisor, Shift. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

We value diversity in perspectives and experiences among colleagues and the residents of this city of whom we serve. Position Responsibilities Processes emergency and non-emergency calls received via telephone while remaining apprised of all Fire, EMS, or Police officials within the jurisdiction of the 911 Center for Marion County Follows established policies, procedures, rules and regulations in handling emergency calls and incidents with specific focus to their trained operational field of Fire, EMS, or Police operations within the 911 Center Enters information into CAD, VESTA, Map, EMSystem, Locution and/or other systems used accurately Acquires and maintains necessary certifications as required by the division Operates CAD, Motorola MC7500, Locution, EMSystem, VESTA Telephone, VESTA Mapping, recording, and monitoring devices Must maintain confidentiality at all times This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities that management may deem necessary from time to time Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent. Must be 18 years of age or greater.

Must have excellent hearing & eyesight, be able to manually enter information into various systems by keyboard typing and capable of physically sitting for long periods of time at an assigned workstation. Must be able to pass a full scope background investigation to include a psychological and physical examinations. Cannot be convicted of a felony and most misdemeanor crimes which involved moral turpitude.

Must be able to ensure the effective treatment of customers whether face to face or telephonically in a professional and courteous manner. Telecommunicator I, EMS, and Fire operations positions must be able to acquire and maintain EMD certification, APCO PST1or department equivalent and CPR certification within 1 year of hire date. Must pass Critical assessment test, all certification courses and successfully complete the MESA Communications training program.

Must be able to read a map and provide directions, monitor road, weather conditions, and make necessary adjustments. Must be able to hear effectively. Attention to detail is required each all or transmission, every day.

Must be able to communicate effectively as diligence is required for every transmission, every day. Must be able to work under extremely stressful conditions. The dispatch center is open 24 hours, seven days a week, including holidays.

This position's shift (i.e., early, middle, or late) will be assigned based on the agency's current needs. NOTICE: Email notifications related to application status and CritiCall testing have commonly been sorted into applicants' junk/spam emails - after applying, please be sure to check your junk/spam folders periodically for notifications. Thank you

Working Conditions Essential functions are regularly performed in an office setting without exposure to adverse environmental conditions. Physical Conditions Sitting at a desk the majority of the day Some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10) pounds Tasks may involve extended periods of time at keyboard or workstation Tasks require the ability to perceive and hear sounds and see visual cues or signals Tasks require the ability to communicate orally