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Police Communications Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Hammond

Police Communications Officer

Hammond, LA · On-site

$29K - $32K/yr

Communications officers report to and have work reviewed by the Police Communications Supervisor. EXAMPLES OF WORK Examples listed below are illustrative only. They are not intended to include all ...

City of Hammond

Police Communications Officer

Hammond, LA · On-site

$39K - $51K/yr

Communications officers report to and have work reviewed by the Police Communications Supervisor. EXAMPLES OF WORK Examples listed below are illustrative only. They are not intended to include all ...

Tamus

Police Communications Officer

Commerce, TX

$40K/yr

Job Title Police Communications Officer Agency East Texas A&M University Department University Police Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Commerce, Texas Job Type Staff INSTRUCTIONS TO ...

Tamus

Police Communications Officer

Commerce, TX

$40K/yr

Job Title Police Communications Officer Agency East Texas A&M University Department University Police Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Commerce, Texas Job Type Staff INSTRUCTIONS TO ...

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Police Communications Officer information

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$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do police communications officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications officer in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police communications officer?

Police Communications Officers, also known as dispatchers, are professionals who receive emergency and non-emergency calls, gather critical information, and coordinate the appropriate response by dispatching police officers and other emergency personnel. They serve as a vital link between the public and law enforcement agencies, ensuring that help is dispatched quickly and efficiently. Their responsibilities also include maintaining detailed records, monitoring multiple communication channels, and providing support to officers in the field. Effective communication, multitasking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential skills for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by police communications officers, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Police Communications Officers often handle high-pressure situations, including emergency calls and rapidly evolving incidents. A key challenge is maintaining composure and clear communication during stressful or emotionally charged events. Applicants can prepare by developing strong multitasking and active listening skills, as well as practicing techniques for managing stress. Familiarity with dispatching technology and a willingness to work in shifts, including nights and weekends, are also important for success in this role.

Is it hard to become a police communications officer?

Becoming a police communications officer typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a written exam and background check, and often completing specialized training or certification. The role demands strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and familiarity with radio and computer systems, but the difficulty varies depending on the agency's requirements and competition for positions.

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

AspectPolice Communications OfficerPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in emergency communicationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in emergency dispatching
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, police stationsEmergency call centers, police stations
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsLaw enforcement agencies, police departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in emergency communication

Police Communications Officers and Police Dispatchers perform similar roles in emergency response, often working in the same environments for law enforcement agencies. While both require comparable certifications and work in police stations, the term 'Police Communications Officer' is often used in official titles, whereas 'Police Dispatcher' is more common in job searches. The roles are largely interchangeable, focusing on relaying information and coordinating police responses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police communications officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Communications Officer, you need strong multitasking abilities, critical thinking, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional specialized training often required. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is essential. Outstanding communication, composure under pressure, and attention to detail are soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure quick, accurate information relay and effective emergency response, which are vital for public and officer safety.

What cities are hiring for Police Communications Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Police Communications Officer job openings:

What states have the most Police Communications Officer jobs?

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

Police Communications Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Communications Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Police Communications Officer

City of Hammond

Hammond, LA • On-site

$29K - $32K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Employees in positions of this class perform entrance-level work in operating communications equipment, keeping records, and other duties in the communications center of the police department. They answer police telephones, dispatch police units, and keep simple records of these activities following department procedures. Duties of this class are non-supervisory in nature and require the ability to act independently following standard operating procedures. Communications officers report to and have work reviewed by the Police Communications Supervisor.
EXAMPLES OF WORK
Examples listed below are illustrative only. They are not intended to include all duties which may be assigned, neither are they intended to exclude other duties which may be logical assignments to this class.
Answers telephone and secures the most accurate information possible for any incident from the caller; takes complaints from other sources such as police units or citizens coming into the station; determines the correct unit(s) to be dispatched and any other pertinent information by following departmental procedure; dispatches unit(s).
Keeps track of location and condition of each unit at all times; stays in touch with units; takes requests for assistance and complies with such; relays instructions from supervisors, messages, emergency information etc.
Calls state police or other law enforcement agencies by phone or radio to send or receive messages concerning auto licenses, driver’s licenses, runaways, criminal records, etc.
Answers all police department telephones and transfers callers to the correct office or department; takes telephone messages for police department personnel and delivers them.
Keeps logs, records, files, and lists by making entries on a regular basis or by periodically reviewing and up-dating information.
Files report forms, cards, logs, tapes, or other items for future reference; fills out forms, reports, or official documents required by the department;
Notifies repair crew or supervisor of any malfunctioning equipment.
Trains new communications officers by giving demonstrations, assisting with work performance, or supervising work performed during training period.
Prepares for shift change by briefing oncoming shift or by being briefed by outgoing shift, checking records from previous shift, or assembling necessary supplies and equipment.
Performs related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, all requirements listed below must be met by the filing deadline for application for admission to the examination.
Must meet all requirements of the Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Law, including being a citizen of the United States and of legal age.
Applicant must possess one of the following: high school diploma, high school equivalency certificate, high school transcript, affidavit from the issuing high school, associate’s or bachelor’s degree, or college transcript, any one of which must indicate that graduation has occurred or a degree awarded. Any Louisiana applicant who presents a home study diploma shall submit necessary documentation indicating Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) approval of the home study curriculum. Non-Louisiana applicants shall be required to present proof of completion of a high school curriculum which has been accredited by the applicant’s state, or its state-approved agency. A certification of completion shall not be sufficient to substitute for a diploma or equivalency certificate.
Must possess a valid picture identification card.
After offer of employment, but before beginning work in this class, must pass a physical examination, the selection and administration of which shall be authorized by the Appointing Authority, designed to demonstrate good health and physical fitness sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without accommodation.
Police Communications Officer HM
Original Adoption: 12-21-64
Revision Dates: 06-12-69, 12-17-81, 10-19-94, 01-19-05, 03-16-11, 12-18-14, 02-15-18

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