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Police Communications Operator Jobs in Washington

City of Fairfax

Temporary Police Dispatcher

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$24/hr

... 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 ...

MedStar Health

Emergency Response Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Dispatches Police Officers to both priority and non priority assignments via the hospital radio communications system. * Monitors the Campus Wide Radio system and coordinates communications between ...

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Police Communications Operator information

See Washington salary details

$37.9K

$62.4K

$81.5K

How much do police communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications operator in Washington is $62,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $70,200.00 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.
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Police Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,433 per year, or $30 per hour.

Emergency Communications Technician I

The City of Falls Church Virginia

Falls Church, VA

$57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Emergency Communications Technician I 

$57,500

(Onsite)

The City of Falls Church Police Department is a highly respected, professional public safety agency committed to providing the highest level of service that our community expects. Located six miles from Washington D.C., the City of Falls Church is an independent City, separate from neighboring Arlington and Fairfax Counties, with its own school system, municipal government, and police department. At just over 2 square miles in area, "The Little City" is known for its urban village community, quality customer service, and independent spirit.   

The City of Falls Church is seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Emergency Communications Technician. The primary duties of this position are to act as a police dispatcher and call-taker for both emergency and non-emergency lines. Our dispatchers are responsible for communicating information between first responders and members of the public using radios, telephones, and various computer programs and equipment. Applicants must exhibit strong customer service skills, be able to work efficiently on computer-based applications, have good organizational skills, and have the ability to work in a stressful environment while maintaining good judgment following policy and procedures. The applicant will have the ability to use their problem-solving skills to generate a favorable outcome to many of the challenges that arise while performing the duties of this position. The applicant must also be willing to work a variety of shifts, to include nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime. 

The City of Falls Church Police Department is comprised of approximately 55 employees, including 35 sworn officers and six civilian Emergency Communications Technicians. As a smaller law enforcement agency, our greatest strength is in the close-working cooperation across all divisions - which include Uniform Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Emergency Communications, Animal Control, Parking Enforcement, and Records – and our neighboring public safety agencies and mutual aid partners.  

Minimum Requirements: 

  • Graduation from high school or GED Certificate 
  • General knowledge of the geography of the city and the region 
  • Demonstrate ability to learn and retain knowledge of telecommunications procedures and techniques and to deal with the public under stressful conditions 
  • Certification as a communications officer within one year of employment 
  • Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment  
  • An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. 

Steps in the Hiring Process:  

  • Apply: Complete the Emergency Communications Technician job application online.  
  • Exam and Interview  Candidates eligible to participate in the selection process will be invited to the Police Department to take a written examination and participate in a panel interview. .  
  • Background: Qualified applicants will undergo a comprehensive background investigation and character check, including polygraph examination.  
  • Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to interview with City of Falls Church Chief of Police Shahram Fard. 
  • Job Offer: Offers are contingent on background and drug screening for final employment.  

Salary and Benefits: 

Annual entry-level salary is $57,500.  Comprehensive benefits package including pension plan, deferred compensation plan, health insurance, dental insurance, flexible spending account, life & long-term disability insurance, paid holidays, vacation & sick leave, credit union membership, free parking, and more.  See more details on benefits here. 

Our commitment to an inclusive workplace: The City of Falls Church is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives curiosity, innovation, and the success of our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the federal, state and/or local laws or regulations. Accommodations may be requested for applicants with disabilities.  To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at HRTeam@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5127.  Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

All City facilities are smoke free.

Please direct questions regarding this position to FCPDhiring@fallschurchva.gov 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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