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Police Communications Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

City of Edinburg

Communications Operator

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$18.95/hr

Communications Operator City of Edinburg in Edinburg, TX is actively seeking a dedicated Communications Operator to perform functions within the Police Department. Are you seeking engaging work ? Do ...

City of Edinburg

Communications Operator

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$18.95/hr

Communications Operator City of Edinburg in Edinburg, TX is actively seeking a dedicated Communications Operator to perform functions within the Police Department. Are you seeking engaging work? Do ...

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All JobsPolice Communications Operator JobsPolice Communications Operator Jobs in Texas

Police Communications Operator information

See Texas salary details

$31.2K

$51.4K

$67.1K

How much do police communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications operator in Texas is $51,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $57,800.00 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.

How does a police communications operator handle high-stress situations, and what support is available?

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 is a police communications operator?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a police communications operator?

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.
More about Police Communications Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in Texas? For Police Communications Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Police Communications Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Police Communications Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Police Communications Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Police Communications Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in TX? For Police Communications Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Police Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,356 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

TPWD - Police Communications Operator I-II-III-IV-V

CAPPS

Austin, TX • On-site

$4.5K - $6.3K/mo

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
TPWD MISSION
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
HIRING CONTACT: Kameron Moncus, (512) 3894848, Kameron.Moncus@tpwd.texas.gov
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Law Enforcement Communications, 5805 N Lamar Blvd, Bldg B, Austin, TX 78752
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Communications Supervisor, this position is responsible for police and emergency management communications work as a licensed first responder. Performs and coordinates radio and telephone communications by following Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) to provide assistance to callers. Responding to highrisk incidents involving the safety of the public or law enforcement. Serves as the primary contact for agency officers, other state, federal and local law enforcement agencies requesting assistance, information, or coordination. May be responsible for functioning as the Unit's Project Liaison for areas of expertise and special projects. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • PCO IV: Graduation from High School or GED.

Experience:
  • PCO I: No experience required;
  • PCO II:
    • One year experience as a Police Communications Operator I:
    • Experience in dispatch, telephone, police, and emergency management communications work;
  • PCO III:
    • Three years experience as a Police Communications Operator, of which one (1) must have been as a Police Communications Operator II;
    • Experience in dispatch, telephone, police, and emergency management communications work.
  • PCO IV:
    • Four years experience as a Police Communications Operator, of which one (1) must have been as a Police Communications Operator III.
  • PCO V:
    • Eight years experience as a Police Communications Operator, of which four (4) must have been as a Police Communications Operator IV;
    • Experience in dispatch, telephone, and emergency management communications work.

Licensure PCO I:
  • Must possess a valid class "C" Texas driver's license;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Telecommunicators Course and Crisis Communications certification;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, an approved Department of Public Safety (DPS) NLETS/TLETS Basic Procedures course and a TCIC/NCIC Full Access course;
  • Must have completed or be able to successfully pass, within one year of employment, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) State Telecommunicators examination;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator License.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon passing examinations and obtaining and maintaining required licenses, certifications, and continuing education training.
Background Check:
  • Required to pass a national fingerprintbased background check prior to employment offer. Potential candidates will be responsible for expenses related to the background check.

NOTE: Must complete or have successfully completed/passed DPS/FBI Fingerprint return.
Licensure PCO II:
  • Must possess a valid class "C" driver's license;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Telecommunicators Course and Crisis Communications certification;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, an approved Department of Public Safety (DPS) NLETS/TLETS Basic Procedures course and a TCIC/NCIC Full Access course;
  • Must have completed or be able to successfully pass, within one year of employment, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) State Telecommunicators examination;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator License.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon passing examinations and obtaining and maintaining required licenses, certifications and continuing education training.
Background Check:
  • Required to pass a national fingerprintbased background check prior to employment offer. Potential candidates will be responsible for expenses related to the background check.

NOTE: Must complete or have successfully completed/passed DPS/FBI Fingerprint return.
Licensure PCO III:
  • Must possess a valid class "C" driver's license ;
  • Must possess a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Intermediate Telecommunicator Proficiency Certification (120 hours) or higher;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Telecommunicators Course and Crisis Communications certification;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, an approved Department of Public Safety (DPS) NLETS/TLETS Basic Procedures course and a TCIC/NCIC Full Access course;
  • Must have completed or be able to successfully pass, within one year of employment, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) State Telecommunicators examination;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator License.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon passing examinations and obtaining and maintaining required licenses, certifications and continuing education training.
Background Check:
  • Required to pass a national fingerprintbased background check prior to employment offer. Potential candidates will be responsible for expenses related to the background check.

NOTE: Must complete or have successfully completed/passed DPS/FBI Fingerprint return.
Licensure PCO IV:
  • Must possess a valid class "C" driver's license;
  • Must possess a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Advanced Telecommunicator Proficiency Certification (240 hours) or higher;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Telecommunicators Course and Crisis Communications certification;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, an approved Department of Public Safety (DPS) NLETS/TLETS Basic Procedures course and a TCIC/NCIC Full Access course;
  • Must have completed or be able to successfully pass, within one year of employment, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) State Telecommunicators examination;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator License.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon passing examinations and obtaining and maintaining required licenses, certifications and continuing education training.
Background Check:
  • Required to pass a national fingerprintbased background check prior to employment offer. Potential candidates will be responsible for expenses related to the background check.

NOTE: Must complete or have successfully completed/passed DPS/FBI Fingerprint return.
Licensure PCO V:
  • Must possess a valid class "C" driver's license;
  • Must possess a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Master Telecommunicator Proficiency Certification (500 hours);
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within six months of employment, a Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Telecommunicators Course and Crisis Communications certification;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, an approved Department of Public Safety (DPS) NLETS/TLETS Basic Procedures course and a TCIC/NCIC Full Access course;
  • Must have completed or be able to successfully pass, within one year of employment, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) State Telecommunicators examination;
  • Must possess or be able to obtain, within one year of employment, a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator License.

NOTE: Retention of position contingent upon passing examinations and obtaining and maintaining required licenses, certifications and continuing education training.
Background Check:
  • Required to pass a national fingerprintbased background check prior to employment offer. Potential candidates will be responsible for expenses related to the background check.

NOTE: Must complete or have successfully completed/passed DPS/FBI Fingerprint return.
Geography:
  • Must reside, or relocate to, within 50 air miles of duty station.

Citizenship:
  • Must be a citizen of the United States.

Background:
  • Applicants will be subjected to, and must successfully pass, a thorough and comprehensive background investigation. The applicant must be of good moral character and not have any of the following incidents in their criminal history:
    • a conviction for any Felony or Class A Misdemeanor offense at any time.
    • a conviction for any Class B Misdemeanor offense within 10 years prior to the date of application, which includes convictions for DWI (driving while intoxicated), DUID (driving under the influence of drugs) and BWI (boating while intoxicated) never have been convicted of any family violence offense currently on courtordered community supervision, probation or parole for any criminal offense above the grade of Class C Misdemeanor.

Military Service:
  • The applicant must not have been discharged from any military service under less than honorable conditions.

Drug Use:
  • The applicant may have no current illegal drug use and will be or must have been subjected to and successfully passed a drug screening procedure.

Psychological Condition:
  • The applicant must be or have been examined by a licensed psychologist and be declared to be in satisfactory psychological and emotional health prior to employment.

Physical Condition:
  • The applicant must be or have been examined by a licensed physician and be declared to be able to physically perform the essential duties of the position prior to employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • College coursework in Criminal Justice.

Experience:
  • Experience as a Police Communication Operator.

Licensure:
  • Current Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Telecommunicator license, DPS;
    • TCIC/NCIC Full Access and Interpol Certifications;
    • Basic Telecommunication Proficiency Certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
PCO I:
  • Knowledge of public safety communications rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of public safety communication equipment, and policies and procedures used in entering and retrieving appropriate information;
  • Knowledge of Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of public safety communications equipment;
  • Knowledge of automated and manual information systems and of the procedures used in entering and retrieving information;
  • Knowledge of local geography, such as roads, highways, cities, towns, terrain, and landmarks in the area of operation;

PCO IIIIIIV: Knowledge of PCO I, Plus:
  • Knowledge of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) communications equipment regulations;
  • Considerable knowledge of local geography, especially the roads, highways, cities, towns, terrain and landmarks in the area of operation;

PCO V: Knowledge of PCO IIIIIIV, Plus:
  • Knowledge of local complex geography, such as roads, highways, cities, towns, terrain and landmarks in the area of operation;

PCO I:
  • Skill in using MS Word, Excel, and Outlook;
  • Skill in effective verbal and written communication;
  • Skill in the operation of telecommunications equipment, computers, and office equipment;
  • Skill in using standard office equipment;
  • Skill in operating security equipment;
  • Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner;

PCO II: Skill of PCO I, Plus:
  • Skill in using TPWD BRITS, LEC, OGTS, TLC and other department related computer systems;

PCO III: Skill of PCO II, Plus:
  • Skill in using TPWD Law Enforcement communications radio equipment;
  • Skill in coordinating special projects within communication center;

PCO IV: Skill of PCO III, Plus:
  • Skill in effective communication with various callers to obtain complete information to determine urgency and need for response;
  • Skill in preparing reports, logs, and correspondence that accurately documents law enforcement communication using appropriate agency policies and procedures;

PCO V: Skill of PCO IV, Plus:
  • Skill in the operation of telec
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About CAPPS

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A statewide software solution developed by the Texas Department of Information Resources, CAPPS consolidates financial management, HR, and payroll operations for state agencies. Designed as a unified enterprise resource system, CAPPS replaced legacy tools in the early 2000s with a scalable, integrated platform tailored to agencies of varied size and complexity.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

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