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Police Communications Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Cadet

Midland, TX · On-site

$31K/yr

Police & Communications, Midland, TX, TX Job Type: Part-time Department: Police Division: Police ... Skill in planning, organizing, and managing time effectively. Ability to work independently in the ...

NY · On-site

$110K - $185K/yr

Overview The Manager, R&D Employee Communications, will lead the development and execution of ... Police Code Sections 4901-4919, commonly referred to as the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance ...

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Police Communications Manager information

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$41K

$85.9K

$145.5K

How much do police communications manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications manager in the United States is $85,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a police communications manager do?

A Police Communications Manager oversees the operations of a police department's communications center, ensuring effective and efficient handling of emergency and non-emergency calls. They are responsible for supervising dispatch staff, implementing communication protocols, managing technology systems, and coordinating with law enforcement and other emergency services. Their role is critical for maintaining public safety, ensuring rapid response times, and upholding high standards of service within the communications team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police communications manager?

To thrive as a Police Communications Manager, you need expertise in emergency communications, supervisory experience, and a background in law enforcement or public safety, often supported by a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communications technology, and certifications such as APCO or NENA are typically required. Strong leadership, crisis management, and effective interpersonal skills help manage teams and ensure clear communication during high-pressure incidents. These skills are essential for maintaining public safety, coordinating emergency responses, and leading communications personnel efficiently.

What are the typical challenges faced by a police communications manager, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Police Communications Managers often navigate high-pressure situations, balancing the need for rapid, accurate information dissemination with maintaining public trust and internal coordination. They must manage both emergency communications and daily media inquiries, requiring strong crisis management skills and the ability to collaborate closely with law enforcement teams. Candidates can prepare by developing experience in fast-paced environments, honing their communication and public relations skills, and familiarizing themselves with law enforcement operations and protocols.

What is the difference between Police Communications Manager vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Communications ManagerPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some roles prefer certifications in emergency communicationsHigh school diploma or GED; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role overseeing communication teams, managing protocolsOperate radio and phone systems to dispatch officers in real-time
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, emergency servicesPolice departments, emergency dispatch centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial vs operational roles in police communicationDifferences between dispatching and management roles in police communication

The Police Communications Manager typically oversees communication operations, manages staff, and develops protocols, requiring some supervisory experience. In contrast, a Police Dispatcher focuses on real-time communication, dispatching officers to incidents. Both roles are essential in law enforcement communication but differ in responsibilities and level of oversight.

What cities are hiring for Police Communications Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Police Communications Manager job openings:

What states have the most Police Communications Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Police Communications Manager jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Manager jobs?

For Police Communications Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Communications Manager, VUPD

Nashville, TN • On-site

Vanderbilt University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

About the Work Unit

Vanderbilt University Public Safety falls under the Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor / Chief of Police for the Division of Administration. The department has over 200 staff and is organized into three divisions: Administration, Operations, and Auxiliary Services. It employs commissioned officers, non‑academy‑trained security officers, and administrative personnel.

Key Functions and Expected Performance Administrative Services
  • Manages the Communications Unit and directly supervises communications specialists, ensuring satisfaction, retention, and quality control.
  • Ensures policies and procedures are followed and completes performance evaluations for communications specialists.
  • Schedules holiday, vacation, and personal time and monitors attendance standards.
  • Investigates complaints of employee misconduct, documents findings, and makes recommendations for disciplinary action.
  • Conducts periodic quality assurance audits of radio and phone traffic, CAD entries, and data entry; issues memoranda to correct errors.
  • Represents VPD as the Terminal Agency Coordinator for the Tennessee Information Enforcement System (TIES) and provides required training to department personnel.
  • Develops policies and procedures for the Communications Unit.
  • Maintains knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide backup for the Manager, Records Unit, coordinating coverage during extended absences.
Support Services
  • Manages maintenance and upkeep of communications equipment, consoles, and related supplies.
Training
  • Ensures training of communications specialists and other police officers used as relief on key functions such as Computer Aided Dispatch, NCIC/TCIC/TIES, Severe Weather Alert System; trains and certifies personnel as public safety dispatchers and NCIC Query operators.
Community Services
  • Serves the community through proactive and self‑initiated activities related to the position.
  • Assists community members as necessary.
Supervisory Relationships

This position has supervisory responsibility over the Communications Department and reports to the Chief of Staff.

Education and Certifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution preferred (degree may be substituted for 1:1 progressive dispatch experience).
  • Possession of Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), Tennessee Information Enforcement System (TIES), and Enhanced 911 training and certification is required.
Experience and Skills
  • 8 years of related experience in a public safety agency, including at least one year of management experience.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, local, and other regulatory requirements governing radio and electronic transmission.
  • Thorough knowledge of operation and maintenance requirements of radio, computer, alarm, and other systems commonly found in communications.
  • Excellent management and team‑building skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and objective in stressful situations.
  • Ability to manage, coordinate, and direct activities of administrative and support personnel.
  • Current knowledge of industry best practices and ability to develop innovative improvements.
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