ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Police Communications Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Old Dominion University

POLICE OFFICER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Knowledge of effective communication strategies. Skill: Excellent written and verbal communications ... Ability to effectively utilize windows operating systems, Apple IOS, Microsoft Office Suite and ...

City of Fairfax

Police Dispatcher I

Fairfax, VA

$50K - $81K/yr

... Communications Center during normal operating hours. Training will consist of written tests ... Police Dispatchers will dispatch calls for service to officers working in the field and maintain ...

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Police Officer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

Responds to communication dispatches to answer calls and complaints Assists persons in distress ... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to prepare reports and ...

Fairfax County, VA

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$74K - $132K/yr

Ability to effectively communicate with persons of all ages and walks of life. * Ability to ... Standard Operating Procedures and training; * Investigates unusual or suspicious conditions ...

Fairfax County

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA

$74K - $132K/yr

Ability to effectively communicate with persons of all ages and walks of life. Ability to remember ... Operating Procedures and training; Investigates unusual or suspicious conditions, traffic crashes ...

Fairfax County Government

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Ability to effectively communicate with persons of all ages and walks of life. * Ability to ... Standard Operating Procedures and training; * Investigates unusual or suspicious conditions ...

Virginia Tech

Police Officer I

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work with a culturally diverse ... Must currently possess a valid Virginia Operator's License or be able to obtain it within 30 days ...

Roanoke County, VA

Police Officer Recruit 2026

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$52K - $54K/yr

... while operating a police radio. Skill in the use of computers for completion of police incident reports and for purposes of communication. Ability to comprehend and carry out oral and written ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolice Communications Operator JobsPolice Communications Operator Jobs in Virginia

Police Communications Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$33.2K

$54.7K

$71.4K

How much do police communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications operator in Virginia is $54,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to become a police dispatcher?

To become a police communications operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Some agencies require completion of dispatch training programs and certification in emergency medical or fire dispatch, along with background checks and sometimes a typing speed requirement.

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 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. Hiring can be competitive due to the importance of the role and the need for reliability and composure in high-pressure 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.

What does a communications officer do in a police department?

A police communications operator, also known as a dispatcher, is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering information, and relaying it to officers and other emergency personnel. They use radio systems and computer-aided dispatch software to coordinate responses, monitor situations, and ensure public safety. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for this role.

How much is a 911 dispatcher paid?

A police communications operator, commonly known as a 911 dispatcher, typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency. Many dispatchers work in shifts and may receive additional pay for overtime or specialized training.
More about Police Communications Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in Virginia? For Police Communications Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Police Communications Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Police Communications Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Police Communications Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Police Communications Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in VA? For Police Communications Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Police Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,651 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

CERTIFIED EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR

County of Culpeper, VA

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary : $42,782.38 - $56,686.65 Annually
Location : County of Culpeper, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 3140-2025-0116
Department: E911 Operations
Opening Date: 07/30/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Summary
Responsible for performing responsible telecommunications work under frequent stressful conditions. Work is in the receipt of emergency and non-emergency calls for service from the public, law enforcement, and fire and rescue communities, as well as maintenance of radio communications with same emergency units.
*This job announcement is for certified emergency communications operators/dispatchers only. We are not currently accepting applications for trainees.
Job Functions
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Answer phone calls on 911 lines and non-emergency lines for the Culpeper County Public Safety Communications Center
  • Interview callers to obtain essential information and record data on incidents as they develop
  • Analyze calls for priority level of emergency response and take or recommend an effective course of action to protect life and property by applying complex police and fire policies and procedures
  • Broadcast calls for service to police/fire field units, order services requested by field units, dispatch and/or cancel field unit back-up assistance and monitor field units for service availability
  • Operate sophisticated computer-aided dispatch radio and phone systems and accurately enter information into the computer, including brief descriptions of crimes, incidents, or other emergencies
  • Maintain composure and professionalism when dealing with hostile or frightened callers during stressful or rapidly changing situations
  • Assist supervisory and directorial staff in various tasks
  • Assist in liaison activities with any and all agencies and persons regarding all operations of the Center
  • Prepare and maintain records and files; Prepare reports

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Provides information and education to the public on EMS, public safety and related topics
  • Perform related duties as required

Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Education equivalent to a high school diploma. Public safety experience is preferred.
Special Qualifications:
Must successfully complete criminal history background investigation, including fingerprinting to include no felony convictions, no serious misdemeanor convictions, all convictions shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Must possess a valid Virginia driver's license. Ability to successfully complete in-house training program within 6 months of employment. Must attend and pass DCJS Communications Basic Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain NCIC/VCIN, CPR, and EMD within one year of employment. Must complete and pass: ICS 100, 200; NIMS 700; PST1; CPR; EMD; Fire Communications; Dispatchers Role in Homeland Security; and DCJS Basic Communications School.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to learn the methods of operating communication systems, radios and teletype procedures
  • Ability to operate complex computerized equipment rapidly and accurately while receiving information by telephone
  • Ability to work well in emergency situations
  • Ability to speak distinctly and learn correct telephone answering techniques
  • Ability to hear and distinguish between several voices at the same time while acquiring and retaining information such as names, numbers and locations
  • Ability to wear headset
  • Ability and willingness to work any shift to which assigned
  • Ability and willingness to work assigned weekends and holidays
  • Ability to read maps and knowledge of county geographical area, road systems and the locations of landmarks.
  • Ability to multitask
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions
  • Ability to deal courteously with public under stressful conditions including handling irate persons and emotional situations
  • Skill in working under pressure of deadlines and establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with employees, officials, other agencies and the general public

Working Conditions & Disclaimer
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Essential functions are regularly performed in a public safety emergency communications center setting, often under stressful conditions, primarily sitting for extended periods of time at a telecommunications console position utilizing radio, telephone, and computer equipment. Hours of operation are 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The employee is primarily scheduled for shift work hours which normally are 2-3 day periods consisting of 12-hour days. Work periods may have permanent or rotating days off, frequently requiring the employee to work holidays, evenings, or nights. The employee in this position is considered essential personnel, and is subject to working overtime, being held over, or called back for disasters, local emergencies, or special events. Frequent contact with the public, police, fire, and emergency services.
Disclaimer
This above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in the adherence to the policies.
The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job.
Culpeper County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
COUNTY OF CULPEPER BENEFITS
Full-time employees have access to a wide variety of benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, life insurance, optional life and disability insurance plans, flexible spending accounts, and a deferred compensation program.
RETIREMENT As a condition of full-time employment, each individual is enrolled in a retirement plan with the Virginia Retirement System that provides a monthly benefit to all retirees for life. VRS Plans 1 and 2 and the VRS Enhanced Hazardous Duty plans are defined benefit plans. The VRS Hybrid plan consists of both a defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan.
All individuals are required to contribute 5% of their gross salary to their retirement account each month as a condition of employment.
LIFE INSURANCE The County of Culpeper provides a basic life insurance plan for all eligible employees. The coverage amount is an employee's annual salary, rounded up to the next highest thousand, then multiplied by 2. The County pays 100% of the cost of this benefit. Additional coverage may be purchased.
MEDICAL INSURANCE The County offers two (2) medical plans: an HMO & an HSA.
DENTAL INSURANCE The County offers three comprehensive dental plans for employees and their eligible dependents.
HOLIDAY/VACATION/SICK ACCRUALS The County follows the state calendar for paid holidays. Vacation and sick accrual depend on the agency, office, or department in which an individual is employed.
PAY FOR PERFORMANCE The County currently utilizes a merit pay system to determine employee salary increases. This does not apply to Culpeper Human Services.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY The County offers basic income protection in the event an employee is unable to perform the essential functions of his or her position. The County pays for this coverage for all VRS members.
LONG TERM DISABILITY The County also offers additional income protection that will continue beyond the short term disability period until an employee is able to return to work or reaches retirement age. This coverage is provided for a nominal cost to employees covered under VRS Plans 1 and 2 and the VRS Enhanced Hazardous Duty plan. This coverage is provided at no cost to all employees covered under the VRS Hybrid plan.
VOLUNTARY INSURANCE PROGRAM The County offers voluntary insurance programs through a variety of insurance carriers. These include:
Accident Plan
Cancer Plan
Whole Life Insurance
Critical Illness Plans
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT The County offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) that allows employees to set aside up to $2,500 annually, on a pre-tax basis via payroll deductions, to pay for eligible medical, dental, or vision expenses. The IRS regulates this program and runs concurrently with the benefit plan year.
DEPENDENT CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The County offers a Dependent Care Assistance Program that allows employees to set aside up to $5,000 annually, on a pre-tax basis via payroll deductions, to pay eligible dependent care expenses. The IRS regulates this program and runs concurrently with the benefit plan year. Open enrollment is held annually.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION The County offers a 457 as another alternative to set aside money for retirement.
This employer uses E-Verify
For more information please go to:
01
Are you currently certified to be an emergency communications operator/dispatcher?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply