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Police Communications Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Communications Lead Operator (Supervisor). To perform this job successfully, an individual must be ... The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Essential Job Functions Operates ...

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

Police Dispatcher I

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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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 Aug 26, 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

Where do police communications operators make the most money?

Police communications operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with larger populations and higher costs of living, such as major metropolitan areas. States or cities with higher budgets for public safety often offer increased pay, especially for experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications. Salary levels can also vary based on department size and funding.

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:

Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,651 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Communications Operator - (Certified)

City of Suffolk

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$55K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


City Of Suffolk rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

681st of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description ***SIGNING BONUS*** ***SIGNING BONUS*** ***SIGNING BONUS*** ** $4000 Experienced Dispatcher** **$4,000 to each experienced dispatcher upon successful completion of the following: Initial emergency communications training with verification of previously completed basic dispatch academy. Certification in emergency medical dispatch. Experience in independent operation of all aspects of public safety dispatching.

Under direct supervision, performs radio and communications work in the Suffolk Police Department's Emergency Communications Center on an assigned 12-hour shift. Answers Emergency 911 and non-emergency calls for service. Dispatches appropriate emergency personnel (i.e., Police, Fire, EMS, Animal Control, Public Works, Virginia Highway Department, etc.) and equipment to public safety situations

Employee must exercise considerable tact and firmness in obtaining information from distressed persons. Employee must exercise independent judgment and initiative in receiving messages, responding to emergency situations, and dispatching calls. Reports to the Communications Lead Operator (Supervisor).

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Essential Job Functions Operates multi-line telephone system and telecommunication device for the deaf and hearing impaired (TDD) to receive, answer, screen, and process incoming calls for service. Responds calmly and tactfully to callers on Emergency 911 and non-emergency lines to obtain complete and accurate information for entry into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.

Prioritizes calls for appropriate response. Operates radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control to calls for service. Monitors the status and location of field units.

Relays messages and information to emergency response personnel using appropriate radio terminology, while adhering to the applicable Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations. Records transmitted information into CAD, as appropriate. Notifies other agencies needed to assist Police, Fire and EMS in emergencies.

Utilizes Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) cards or software to ask vital questions and provide pre-arrival instructions as needed. Operates a computer terminal connected with the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center to obtain such information as driver's history, vehicle registration data, criminal record information, stolen property information, etc., as necessary. Monitors security alarms for businesses, court, schools, etc

Facilitates language interpretation between non-English speaking callers and interpreters to provide assistance needed. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to speak clearly and precisely over the telephone and radio.

Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with employees, supervisors, and representatives from other departments and organizations. Performs various clerical duties, as necessary. Required Qualifications For Certified Communications Operators: Salary determination based on 50% credit for years of dispatch experience.

Graduation from high school or GED and Basic Dispatcher State certification; current or previous certification in VCIN/NCIC; proof of Emergency Medical Dispatch Training completion, current CPR certification required, at least two years of experience in public safety dispatching, and at least two of the following certifications preferred: -DCJS General Instructor -DCJS Specialty Instructor -Crisis Intervention Team Certification -Communications Training Operator or other skills deemed appropriate by the Chief of Police or their designee as an acceptable substitution for a certification (Certifications must be attached to application for Criticall exemption consideration.) Salary Starting from: $55,368 Disqualifications: Automatic Disqualifying Factors for Sworn & Non-Sworn Applicants The following list includes all items for which an application for a sworn and non-sworn position will be automatically disqualified. Criminal History Conviction of any felony Conviction of domestic violence Any conviction regarding the involvement in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs Conviction of any Class 1 or 2 misdemeanor (or the Virginia State Law equivalent) within the last five years, excluding traffic violations (minor offenses may be looked at on a case-by-case basis) Embezzlement or misappropriation of funds from a former employer Founded child/elder abuse or neglect case Illegal possession of a schedule I or II drug or any derivative thereof within the last five years (excluding marijuana) Illegal use and/or possession of anabolic steroids within the last five years Illegal use of any drug classified as a hallucinogen within the last five years Driving History Four or more negative points on a Virginia Operator's license (or the equivalent for out-of-state residents). Points may be negated by attending defensive driving school offered by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) prior to the one-on-one interview with the background investigator

Conviction of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within past five years Eluding police within past five years Leaving the scene of an accident within past two years Multiple convictions of DUI No valid driver's license and/or inability to obtain a Virginia license Refusal to take a blood or breath test related to suspected DUI/DUID within past five years Suspension or revocation of license or conviction of reckless driving within the last twelve months Other Disqualifications Two or more bankruptcies Any "Dishonorable Discharge" or discharge "other than Honorable", from the military resulting from disciplinary action (case by case as determined by disposition code). Cheating on any examination or testing associated with this position Crimes of moral turpitude (lying, cheating, stealing) Ineligibility to possess a firearm in Virginia Intentional omission on the application/background process for this position. Intentional lying on the application/background process for this position Having any visible tattoos, brands, piercings, intentional scarifications (intentional scarifications are those that did not occur accidentally/naturally) other body modifications on the face, head, front half of the neck in front of the ears (50% of the neck behind the ears) Offensive tattoos are prohibited (Full tattoo sleeves ARE allowed) City of Suffolk is a proud participant of the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program and we welcome Veterans to apply.

Supplemental Information Must complete a medical, audio, psychological evaluation and pre-employment substance abuse test with satisfactory results. Communications Operators are considered essential (ALPHA) personnel and are required to work during inclement weather, emergency conditions, and based on staffing needs. Dispatchers work 12 hour shifts in the 911 Center that is staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days per week; 365 days per year receiving emergency 911 calls along with non-emergency calls.

To review video, click here: www.suffolkva.us/hr/eco To review flier, click here: www.suffolkva.us/spdcommunicationsoperators City of Suffolk is a proud participant of the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program and we welcome Veterans to apply.


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