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Entry Level 911 Dispatcher Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level 911 Dispatcher information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$21

$32

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 911 dispatcher in Raleigh, NC is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job?

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 in the Entry Level 911 Dispatcher position, and why are they important?

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.

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.

Is it hard to get into 911 dispatcher?

Entry level 911 dispatcher positions can be competitive and often require passing a written exam, background check, and training program. Candidates typically need strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and sometimes certification in emergency dispatching. While the entry process can be challenging, it varies by location and agency requirements.

Can you be a 911 dispatcher with no experience?

Entry level 911 dispatchers typically do not need prior experience, but they must complete specialized training and pass certification requirements. Strong communication skills, the ability to stay calm under pressure, and familiarity with dispatch software are important for the role.

How much is the salary of a 911 dispatcher?

The average salary of an entry-level 911 dispatcher typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and department size. Many dispatchers work in a high-stress environment and may require certifications such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) or Emergency Telecommunicator Certification.

What disqualifies you from being a dispatcher?

Entry level 911 dispatcher candidates are typically disqualified if they have a criminal record, especially for felonies or crimes involving dishonesty, or if they do not meet the minimum age and education requirements. Additionally, poor communication skills, inability to handle stressful situations, or failing background checks can disqualify applicants from becoming dispatchers.
What are the most commonly searched types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of 911 Dispatcher jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level 911 Dispatcher jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level 911 Dispatcher job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,541 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

911 Emergency Communications Technician (Call Taker)

City of Durham

Durham, NC • On-site

$52K - $74K/yr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


City Of Durham (North Carolina) rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Work, Serve, Thrive. With the City of Durham Advance in your career while making a real difference in the community you serve. Why work at the Durham Emergency Communications Center.

Click this link to find out more. Hiring Range: $25.29 - $34.44 Hourly ($1.50 shift premium during the hours of 4:00 PM and 8:00 AM) (Please note that salary range higher than the minimum will be based on prior 911 experience). Work Day/Hours: Hours during classroom training will be from 8:00 - 5:00

Once classroom training is completed, team members will be assigned to 4 day work weeks with 12-hour shifts; shift will be EITHER 5:00 am to 5:00 pm OR 5:00 pm to 5:00 am. This coverage utilizes fixed shifts including nights, weekends and holidays. Shifts are determined by the needs of the agency.

This posting is to find candidates for our next training academy starting JUNE 15th Please note that our next academy has 12 spaces available. Submitting an application cannot guarantee a spot in the upcoming academy as spaces are limited and subject to availability. The Durham Emergency Communications Center works to provide City and County residents the fastest, most-efficient emergency call response possible while ensuring the safety of our police, fire and emergency medical services responders.

Our state-of-the art center was the first, and currently one of only three, in the nation to hold both emergency medical dispatch accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies and Project 33 agency training program certification from APCO International. We're constantly finding ways to improve the quality of assistance we provide to the community, knowing service is our one and only product. If innovating and serving in a fast-paced environment are for you, bring your talent and skills to Durham.

Are you looking for meaningful career in a fast paced, high energy environment. When you work as a 911 call taker, you'll be able to save lives without ever leaving your chair. Our dispatch center features state-of-the-art technology enabling you to be the difference between life and death when people call for help.

Promotional opportunities including dispatch of Police, Fire and EMS are currently available. If this sounds like an environment where you would thrive we would love for you to join our team. This is an entry level position into the Durham Emergency Communications Center.

This position is expected to progress and be promoted to communications dispatch position. Work Days/Hours: Hours will vary. Call Takers are scheduled for 24 hour coverage.

This coverage utilizes fixed shifts including nights, weekends and holidays. Shifts are determined by the needs of the agency. The purpose of this position is to provide assistance to callers reporting emergencies and/or requesting help in situations requiring Police, Fire or EMS.

This is accomplished by answering incoming calls and serving as the first point of contact for residents, visitors and businesses. Duties/Responsibilities Answer and process emergency and administrative phone calls. Follows scripted protocol questions, enters appropriate information for emergency responders and provides pre-arrival instructions.

(Will connect with bilingual interpreter if necessary.) Simultaneously read scripted protocol questions while clearly and concisely typing the information received. Routes calls by categorizing incoming calls and directing them to the appropriate division. Creates service requests by analyzing incoming calls; creates requests; forwards requests; and follows up with other city departments on open requests

Skills: Emotional awareness to quickly and accurately transition between calls with imminent threat to life and/or property to calls of a more routine nature. The ability to professionally respond to caller needs, rather than actions, demonstrating proficiency in caller control when interacting with difficult callers. Proficiency in multi-tasking; Exceptional attention to detail; Creative problem solving; Excellent reading comprehension; Strong short term memory.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience High School/GED. Six months experience in a fast paced customer service environment. Certification in International Academy of Emergency Dispatch Police, Fire and EMS call taking protocols is required within 6 months of hire.* CPR Healthcare Provider Certification within 6 months of hire.* Pass Psychological Exam prior to hire

Requires learning one dispatch discipline (Fire/EMS or Police) within 18 months of employment This position is critical to emergency operations and will report to work in spite of or because of an emergency or disaster event. No Class B (or higher) misdemeanor conviction in the last ten (10) years (please see a list of Class B Convictions Here) No Felony Conviction Must be 18 years old or older Please note that for any selected candidate in an operational position they must meet requirements designated by NCOEMS, by following this link you can view an FAQ outlining those employment requirements https://info.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/EMS/faqcomp.htm#legalrec *NOTE: Employee will be trained in International Academy of Emergency Dispatch Police, Fire and EMS call taking protocols and CPR Healthcare Provider. Certifications are paid for by the department and provided during assigned work hours

Additional Preferred Skills Call Center experience. Bilingual (English/Spanish). The Durham Emergency Communications Center (DECC) is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment based on any protected status under federal, state, or local law.

We expect every member of the DECC community to contribute to an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Employment decisions-such as hiring, compensation, training, performance evaluation, and termination-are made fairly and without bias. DECC provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates and employees.


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