1

Police Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Department University Police Department Compensation $17.53 Hourly General Description / Primary Purpose The Police Communications Operator (PCO) provides critical non-sworn support services to law ...

Police Communications Operator

Campus, IL · On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

Provides radio communications for University Police officers and Public Safety Officers on campus. * Initiates and receives information and request for services from allied law enforcement agencies.

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Police Communications Operator information

See salary details

$33.5K

$55.1K

$72K

How much do police communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications operator in the United States is $55,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Police Communications Operator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Communications OperatorEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, communication training, certificationsHigh school diploma, emergency communication training, certifications
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, dispatch centersEmergency call centers, dispatch hubs
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agenciesPublic safety agencies, emergency services
Search & Comparison IntentSimilar roles, communication dutiesEmergency response coordination

Both Police Communications Operators and Emergency Dispatchers handle emergency calls and coordinate responses. While their roles overlap in communication and certification requirements, Police Communications Operators typically work within police stations focusing on law enforcement support, whereas Emergency Dispatchers may serve broader emergency services like fire and medical. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in public safety communication roles.

Why do 911 dispatchers quit?

911 dispatchers often leave the job due to high stress levels, emotional burnout, and shift work that can disrupt personal life. The demanding nature of the role, combined with exposure to traumatic calls and the need for quick decision-making, contributes to turnover. Job satisfaction can be affected by workload, staffing shortages, and limited opportunities for advancement.

What is a communications officer in the police?

A police communications officer, also known as a dispatcher or call taker, is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering information, and dispatching police units to incidents. They must have strong communication skills, knowledge of radio systems, and often work in a 24/7 environment to ensure quick and accurate response coordination.

How does a Police Communications Operator typically handle high-stress situations, and what support is available from the team?

Police Communications Operators frequently manage urgent and high-pressure scenarios, such as dispatching officers to emergencies or handling multiple calls simultaneously. To navigate these challenges, operators receive extensive training in stress management, effective communication, and crisis protocols. Team members often work closely together in a supportive environment, with supervisors and colleagues providing guidance and backup when necessary. Many agencies also offer access to counseling services and peer support programs to help operators maintain their well-being.

What Does a Police Communications Operator Do?

As a police communications operator, you manage a police department’s response logistics by answering 911 calls, determining whether or not a situation is an emergency, and functioning as a dispatcher for the department. Most police communications operators categorize and monitor calls, decide which police officers to contact about each issue, and help deliver important information like license plate numbers and warrant statuses. Some duties and responsibilities vary based on the department, but answering phones is a consistent part of this job. Police communications dispatchers are also known as communications officers and 911 dispatchers, but should not be confused with general 911 operators who also work with fire, medical, and other emergency services.

What are Police Communications Operators?

Police Communications Operators, also known as dispatchers, are professionals responsible for receiving and processing emergency and non-emergency calls for police assistance. They gather critical information from callers, relay details to officers in the field, and coordinate the appropriate response using radio, telephone, and computer systems. These operators play a vital role in public safety by ensuring that help is dispatched quickly and efficiently, often remaining calm under pressure and multitasking in fast-paced environments.

Is it hard to be hired as a 911 dispatcher?

Becoming a police communications operator or 911 dispatcher typically requires completing a training program, passing written and psychological exams, and demonstrating strong communication skills. The hiring process can be competitive due to the importance of the role and the need for reliability and composure in emergency situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Communications Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Communications Operator, you need strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional specialized training in emergency communications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and 911 call handling software is required. Excellent communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate, timely dispatching of emergency services and maintaining public safety in high-pressure environments.

How much do 911 call dispatchers make?

911 call dispatchers, also known as emergency dispatchers or police communications operators, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $50,000. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications, with some regions offering higher pay for specialized skills or longer shifts.
What cities are hiring for Police Communications Operator jobs? Cities with the most Police Communications Operator job openings:
What states have the most Police Communications Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Communications Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Police Communications Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police Communications Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs? For Police Communications Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 59% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,123 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Police Communications Operator

Police Communications Operator

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA • Hybrid

$48K - $73K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Receive emergency and non-emergency calls, question callers to gather details, and determine response requirements.

  • Relay information to Troopers through radio, telephone, and computer systems while keeping communication clear and accurate.

  • Contact other agencies such as police, fire, ambulance, towing, and PennDOT to request support or share incident details.


Job description

THE POSITION As a Police Communications Operator for the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) at Troop A, Greensburg, you play an essential role in helping callers during urgent situations and ensuring Troopers receive accurate information quickly. Your steady coordination keeps critical communications clear and dependable. This fast-paced work lets you take on meaningful challenges that truly matter each day.

If you are ready to support public safety and keep essential operations running smoothly, we encourage you to apply today. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position supports the communication needs of a State Police installation by managing calls, coordinating responses, and keeping vital information flowing. The role requires strong attention to detail and steady decision making in fast-paced situations.

As a Police Communications Operator, you will perform the following duties: Call Handling: Receive emergency and non emergency calls, question callers to gather details, and determine response requirements Incident Dispatch: Relay information to Troopers through radio, telephone, and computer systems while keeping communication clear and accurate Agency Coordination: Contact other agencies such as police, fire, ambulance, towing, and PennDOT to request support or share incident details Record Management: Use Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN), Pennsylvania Justice Network (JNET), and Protection From Abuse Database (PFAD) to research records and maintain electronic records Trooper Monitoring: Track Trooper status and locations, interpret maps, and communicate information regarding active incidents or concerns Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment, 40 hours per week Work hours to be determined.

Your schedule will include rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays, with a 30-minute lunch. Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position. Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.

You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: Two years of experience using two-way radio, multi-line telephone, or computer aided dispatch systems; or Two years of experience using computer systems for entering, updating, and retrieving information; or Completion of 60 college credits; or An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Special Requirements: You must possess a clear, firm voice and no major speech, hearing, or visual impairments that would interfere with understanding verbal communication, being understood, or using electronic communications equipment and visual display equipment. You must obtain an active Public Safety Telecommunicator certification issued by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials within the probationary period and maintain the same for the duration of employment in this job. You must obtain active Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN) and Pennsylvania Justice Network (JNET) certifications issued by the Pennsylvania State Police within the probationary period and maintain the same for the duration of employment in this job.

Additional Requirements: You must be able to perform essential job functions. Legal Requirements: This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer.

You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements. How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education)

If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date.

Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work.

Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. 7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs

To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals). If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787