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Police Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Towson University

Police Communications Operator

Campus, IL · On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

Provides radio communications for University Police officers and Public Safety Officers on campus. * Initiates and receives information and request for services from allied law enforcement agencies.

Marylandconnect

$46K - $60K/yr

The Police Communications Operator is a civilian non-sworn position within the BSU Police Force. The P.C.O. shall adhere to the Rules, Regulations and Procedures established for non-sworn members of ...

Tuskegee University

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

Tuskegee University

$44K - $57K/yr

... Operator communications activities necessary for providing emergency and non-emergency police ... services. This position receives, prioritizes, and determines the appropriate disposition of ...

City of Hammond

Police Communications Officer

Hammond, LA · On-site

$29K - $32K/yr

... level work in operating communications equipment, keeping records, and other duties in the ... They answer police telephones, dispatch police units, and keep simple records of these activities ...

Towson University

Public Safety Officer

Campus, IL · On-site

In the absence of the Police Communications Operator, staffs the Police Communication Center and may perform basic duties and responsibilities of the Police Communications Operator. * High school ...

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Police Communications Operator information

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$33.5K

$55.1K

$72K

How much do police communications operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications operator in the United States is $55,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
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Police Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,123 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Police Communications Operator

Police Communications Operator

Towson University

Campus, IL • On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Towson University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

346th of 534 rated colleges and universities

Job description

  • Answers emergency and non-emergency telephones and police radios.
  • Provides radio communications for University Police officers and Public Safety Officers on campus.
  • Initiates and receives information and request for services from allied law enforcement agencies.
  • Monitors/reacts to thirty additional telephone lines connected to the campus emergency telephone system.
  • Receives and records information and request for police services in-person and via telephone reporting of criminal offenses and accidents. 
  • Initiates and receives telephonic communications with local police departments and emergency centers via dedicated cable for relaying referral police, medical and other emergency information.
  • Monitors and maintains radio communications with campus departments which work in cooperation with University Police to ensure mutual support is provided and to maintain public safety and protection of University property.
  • Operates various computer terminal/equipment internal to the operations of the department and equipment leased from external agencies. 

This position is classified as ESSENTIAL personnel and candidates will be required to work various shifts including weekends and holidays

  • High School diploma or equivalent and 2 years of clerical or related experience, such as dispatching or emergency communications.
  • Candidate must possess basic computer skills and experience working with windows-based communications systems and alarm systems.

Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

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