Certified Police Officer 2026
$54K - $64K/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 ...
$54K - $64K/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 ...
$54K - $64K/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 ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$21 - $23/hr
The dispatcher serves as a key communication link between campus police, college administrators ... an operator of the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) computer system. • Requires ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$21 - $23/hr
The dispatcher serves as a key communication link between campus police, college administrators ... an operator of the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) computer system. • Requires ...
$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 ...
$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 ...
Hampton, VA · On-site
$58K - $71K/yr
If you possess integrity, and strong communication skills, you can make a difference with the ... NASBLA Boat Operator NASBLA Tactical Operator NASBLA Pursuit and Stop USCG Captain's License Any ...
Hampton, VA · On-site
$58K - $71K/yr
If you possess integrity, and strong communication skills, you can make a difference with the ... NASBLA Boat Operator NASBLA Tactical Operator NASBLA Pursuit and Stop USCG Captain's License Any ...
Suffolk, VA · On-site
Emergency Communications Operator Under direct supervision, performs communications work in the Emergency Communications Center of the Police Department on an assigned shift. Work involves receiving ...
Suffolk, VA · On-site
Emergency Communications Operator Under direct supervision, performs communications work in the Emergency Communications Center of the Police Department on an assigned shift. Work involves receiving ...
$49K - $87K/yr
... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to prepare reports and ... Ability to communicate effectively with groups of customers or employees of organization. REASONING ...
$49K - $87K/yr
... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to prepare reports and ... Ability to communicate effectively with groups of customers or employees of organization. REASONING ...
Emergency Communications Technician I $57,500 (Onsite) The City of Falls Church Police Department ... Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment * An equivalent combination of ...
Quick apply
Emergency Communications Technician I $57,500 (Onsite) The City of Falls Church Police Department ... Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment * An equivalent combination of ...
Emergency Communications Technician I $57,500 (Onsite) The City of Falls Church Police Department ... Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment * An equivalent combination of ...
Emergency Communications Technician I $57,500 (Onsite) The City of Falls Church Police Department ... Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment * An equivalent combination of ...
Roanoke, VA · On-site
$45K/yr
Police Division: 911 Center Opening Date: 08/05/2026 Description The City of Roanoke is seeking 911 ... the operating procedures and practices to new employees in an on-the-job training situation ...
Roanoke, VA · On-site
$45K/yr
Police Division: 911 Center Opening Date: 08/05/2026 Description The City of Roanoke is seeking 911 ... the operating procedures and practices to new employees in an on-the-job training situation ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
Round Hill, VA · On-site
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
Round Hill, VA · On-site
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
$65K/yr
... Police Branch. MWEOC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, approximately 60 miles ... Using and operating a variety of communications and security equipment, such as computers, multi ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$23.18/hr
Dispatch officers to emergency and non-emergency calls for police service such as TSA security ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Virginia Motor Vehicle Operators License. * Ability to ...
Quick apply
Richmond, VA · On-site
$23.18/hr
Dispatch officers to emergency and non-emergency calls for police service such as TSA security ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Virginia Motor Vehicle Operators License. * Ability to ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$52K/yr
Duties include: affecting an arrest, testifying in court, safely operating a law enforcement ... Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with a diverse population. Ability ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$52K/yr
Duties include: affecting an arrest, testifying in court, safely operating a law enforcement ... Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with a diverse population. Ability ...
Roanoke, VA · On-site
$45K/yr
Some knowledge of police and fire safety tactics as they relate to communications. Ability to quickly learn the department organization and standard operating procedures. Ability to prioritize and ...
Roanoke, VA · On-site
$45K/yr
Some knowledge of police and fire safety tactics as they relate to communications. Ability to quickly learn the department organization and standard operating procedures. Ability to prioritize and ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$52K/yr
Duties include: affecting an arrest, testifying in court, safely operating a law enforcement ... Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with a diverse population. Ability ...
Richmond, VA · On-site
$52K/yr
Duties include: affecting an arrest, testifying in court, safely operating a law enforcement ... Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with a diverse population. Ability ...
Some knowledge of police and fire safety tactics as they relate to communications. Ability to quickly learn the department organization and standard operating procedures. Ability to prioritize and ...
Some knowledge of police and fire safety tactics as they relate to communications. Ability to quickly learn the department organization and standard operating procedures. Ability to prioritize and ...
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$61K - $75K/yr
Communications involves the ability to read, write, and speak. Reads technical instructions ... operating instructions, and methods and procedures for investigations and in drawing and layout ...
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$61K - $75K/yr
Communications involves the ability to read, write, and speak. Reads technical instructions ... operating instructions, and methods and procedures for investigations and in drawing and layout ...
Description The City of Roanoke is seeking 911 Communications Officer candidates to dispatch police ... the operating procedures and practices to new employees in an on-the-job training situation ...
Description The City of Roanoke is seeking 911 Communications Officer candidates to dispatch police ... the operating procedures and practices to new employees in an on-the-job training situation ...
$33.2K - $36.7K
3% of jobs
$36.7K - $40.2K
2% of jobs
$40.2K - $43.6K
4% of jobs
$43.6K - $47.1K
11% of jobs
$48.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$47.1K - $50.6K
17% of jobs
The median wage is $53.8K / yr.
$50.6K - $54K
14% of jobs
$54K - $57.5K
13% of jobs
$60.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$57.5K - $61K
12% of jobs
$61K - $64.4K
14% of jobs
$64.4K - $67.9K
10% of jobs
$67.9K - $71.4K
1% of jobs
$33.2K
$54.7K
$71.4K
| Aspect | Police Communications Operator | Emergency Dispatcher |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma, communication training, certifications | High school diploma, emergency communication training, certifications |
| Work Environment | Police stations, dispatch centers | Emergency call centers, dispatch hubs |
| Employer & Industry | Law enforcement agencies | Public safety agencies, emergency services |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Similar roles, communication duties | Emergency 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.
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.

$54K - $64K/yr
Full-time
Re-posted 10 days ago
GENERAL DESCRIPTION Performs protective service work involving general police duty that frequently involves an element of personal danger and is performed sometimes under emergency conditions. Enforces federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Promotes public knowledge of laws and ordinances and provides assistance to the public.
Performs other duties as assigned. Starting range is $54,173.39-$64,728.35 based on qualifications and placement on the pay step plan. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ~ Patrols assigned area during scheduled shift, observing for violations of traffic or other laws, issuing citations for violations
Observes for suspicious activities or persons and disturbances of law and order. Checks doors and windows of buildings or residences to ensure security. ~ Works any shift, including holidays, weekends and overtime as assigned.
~ Responds to radio dispatches. ~ Communicates effectively over the police radio channels. ~ Operates assigned vehicle safely under all conditions, including in emergencies, congested traffic, inclement weather, and while using a police radio.
~ Performs physical enforcement duties, including pursuing suspects and making arrests, to subdue resisting and violent subject using approved maneuvers and/or weapons as applicable. ~ Uses independent judgment in determining reasonable suspicion to detain and search, and probable cause to arrest a suspect. ~ Performs rescue operations at accidents, disasters, and other emergency situations.
~ Performs protective services in situations that may involve lifting, carrying, dragging, climbing, crawling, jumping, gaining entrance through barriers, directing traffic for long periods of time, and extinguishing small fires through the use of a fire extinguisher or other appropriate means. ~ Performs searches of people, vehicles, buildings and outdoor areas that may involve walking for long periods of time and detecting objects by using body senses. ~ Operates issued firearms under conditions of stress and at levels of proficiency and certification as prescribed by the Department of Criminal Justice Services.
~ Gathers and records information in criminal investigations by interviewing and obtaining the statements of victims, witnesses, suspects and confidential informants. ~ Detects, preserves, and collects evidence and substances that form the basis of criminal offenses and infractions. ~ Ensures investigative and descriptive reports and sketches are prepared using appropriate spelling, sentence structure, grammar, mathematical computations, and symbols.
~ Transports prisoners and mentally ill persons using appropriate physical restraints. ~ Demonstrates the effective preparation, comprehension, and processing of legal and non- legal documents including criminal and traffic citations, affidavits and search warrants. ~ Demonstrates effective communication skills with people by listening, providing information, mediating disputes, advising of applicable rights and processes, and maintaining composure when confronted with hostile views and opinions of suspects and others encountered in an antagonistic environment.
~ Provides testimony and evidence by conveying pertinent facts and details in court and other formal settings. ~ Conducts visual and audio surveillance for extended periods of time. REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES Education: Required: High School diploma or equivalent.
Experience: Preferred: Some experience dealing with the public and enforcing rules. Certifications/Licenses: Required: Valid Virginia driver's license with good driving record. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: General knowledge of approved principles, techniques, and practices of police work; laws and ordinances governing local police work; and of the geography of the County and the location of important buildings.
Skill in the use of firearms and the operation of a motor vehicle in emergency situations, inclement weather, and 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 instructions, both legal and non-legal.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to analyze situations and to adopt quick, effective and reasonable courses of actions. Ability to deal courteously, firmly and tactfully with the public and to establish and maintain effective working relationships through good interpersonal skills.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None Additional Requirements: Must be a citizen of the United States, twenty-one (21) years of age by date of hire, and not have any felony convictions. Must successfully complete the minimum training standards as required by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Must not use tobacco products on or off duty to ensure compliance with the Virginia Heart and Lung Laws.
Must work fixed or rotating shifts including holiday and weekend work as assigned. Must maintain your baseline physical condition. Must be willing to update knowledge of law enforcement practices, legal issues, and equipment.
Must meet all existing policies and procedures of the Roanoke County Police Department and abide by the Roanoke County Police Department's residency requirement. Subject to a complete criminal history background search with acceptable results. Must also be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description.
OTHER INFORMATION