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Police Communications Operator Jobs in Washington

Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways ... communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and ...

Bucket Operator Union CDL Required

Herndon, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways ... communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in Washington?

For Police Communications Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Communications Operator jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Communications Operator jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Police Communications Operator jobs in WA?

For Police Communications Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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.

Bucket Operator Union

Asplundh

Herndon, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Asplundh Tree Expert rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 246 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 19 rated forestry and logging companies


Job description

Description

Bucket Operator

This role is responsible for assisting with the clearing & removal of trees along electrical power lines and right-of-ways. A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift device (bucket truck) to reach branches interfering with electric lines.

Are you a real go-getter looking for an amazing opportunity with a nationwide full-service-utility contractor offering competitive wages and incredible benefits? Keep reading because this job might be for you!

Since 1928, Asplundh has been dedicated to safe, efficient and innovative line clearance services to the utility industry. Reliable, uninterrupted power is an important service provided by the world's electrical utilities and Asplundh has the expertise to help keep the power flowing. Diversification over the years has opened up vegetation management services to other specialized markets such as municipalities, railroads, pipelines, helicopter vegetation services, and departments of transportation.

A family-owned and operated corporation headquartered near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Asplundh has grown to employ over 36,000 service professionals throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Job Type: Full-Time +, Non-Exempt

Pay:Competitive, Hourly

Benefits:
  • Available Benefit options vary based on tenure, position, and work location. 
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on the property. Arranges with customer or property owner to obtain access, advises of interruption, explains work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and the public.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production and for following safe practices and rules while clearing and trimming trees and brush away from utility lines.
  • Operates and services equipment, such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, buckets, chippers, and sprayers.
  • Operates a Bucket near energized lines to remove branches and tree material.
  • Performs tree and bucket rescue.
  • Uses hand tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners, etc.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Trains new personnel.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be familiar with the electrical hazard.
  • Possesses working knowledge and can identify tree and shrub species.
  • Work demands physical energy, twisting, some lifting ability, and hand-to-eye coordination.
  • Must be willing to join local union and pay union dues.
Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • 1+ year of related industry experience required.
Pre-Screen
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to subject and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • Driver's License Preferred, but not required.
Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (less than 10%): Sitting, Kneeling, Crawling, Color Vision, Climbing Stairs
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): Stooping, Squatting, Climbing On/Off Truck, Climbing Ladders, Pushing, Reading, Lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): Carrying, Pulling, Balancing, body-twisting, Hearing/Speech Range, Lifting, Lifting up to 10 lbs., Manual Dexterity, Speaking Clearly, Walking
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): Standing, Sense of Touch, Gripping, Seeing, Reaching, range-of-motion, Depth Perception, Lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., Climbing
Safety

Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally.

  • Works in all temperatures and will be exposed to nature i.e., irritating plants and biting or stinging insects.
  • Works near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works in traffic.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills, and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • Exposed to hazards of working near power equipment, traffic, high voltage wires, and falling limbs.

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

Important Information for Applicants:
  • Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC and its family of companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to any legally protected characteristic.
  • If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our ADA Coordinator at 1-800-248-8733, ext. 3656.
  • Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment requirements, which include background screening, drug testing, and employment eligibility verification.
  • Compensation determination is based on market data, job scope and individual qualifications.
  • We offer a competitive total rewards package inclusive of health and welfare and retirement benefits, as well as paid time off and holiday pay benefits.
  • Unsolicited resumes without an executed agency agreement become the property of the company.

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