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Police Communications Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... communications center of the police department. They answer police telephones, dispatch police ... Duties of this class are non-supervisory in nature and require the ability to act independently ...

... communications center of the police department. They answer police telephones, dispatch police ... Duties of this class are non-supervisory in nature and require the ability to act independently ...

$21.75/hr

JR101955 Police Communications Operator (Open) Department: FSU University Police, Police Commun ... Also responsible for notifying command, supervisory and administrative personnel about incidents.

... communications with other agencies. * Correctly process and record requests for police, fire, and ... As required, act in the absence of the shift supervisor. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: * High school ...

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Police Communications Supervisor information

See salary details

$41K

$85.9K

$145.5K

How much do police communications supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for police communications supervisor in the United States is $85,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Police Communications Supervisor, and how can they be addressed?

Police Communications Supervisors often manage high-pressure situations, such as coordinating responses to emergencies while ensuring clear communication among dispatchers and officers. Balancing staff schedules, handling critical incidents, and maintaining performance standards can also be challenging. Staying calm under pressure, fostering teamwork, and providing ongoing training are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Supervisors who develop strong communication and leadership skills are better equipped to support their team and maintain effective operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Communications Supervisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Communications Supervisor, you need experience in emergency dispatch operations, a solid understanding of public safety protocols, and typically a background in criminal justice or related fields. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and certifications such as APCO or NENA are often required. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and effective interpersonal communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and handling critical incidents. These competencies ensure efficient emergency response, team coordination, and public safety in high-stress environments.

What are the responsibilities of a Police Communications Supervisor?

A Police Communications Supervisor oversees the operations of a police dispatch center, ensuring effective communication between emergency callers, dispatchers, and law enforcement personnel. They manage a team of dispatchers, train new staff, monitor ongoing calls, and ensure protocols are followed for public safety. Additionally, they handle scheduling, address performance issues, and coordinate with other departments during emergencies or major incidents. Their role is crucial in maintaining smooth and efficient emergency communication services.

What is the difference between Police Communications Supervisor vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Communications SupervisorPolice Dispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; certifications in emergency communicationHigh school diploma or GED; certifications in emergency dispatching
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role overseeing dispatch staff; administrative tasksHandling emergency calls; radio communication with officers
Employer & IndustryPolice departments; public safety agenciesPolice departments; emergency response agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding supervisory roles in dispatchDetails about dispatching duties and qualifications

The Police Communications Supervisor oversees dispatch operations and manages staff, requiring supervisory skills and certifications. In contrast, a Police Dispatcher primarily handles emergency calls and radio communication. Both roles are vital in law enforcement communication, but the supervisor has additional administrative and leadership responsibilities.

More about Police Communications Supervisor jobs
What states have the most Police Communications Supervisor jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Communications Supervisor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Police Communications Supervisor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police Communications Supervisor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Police Communications Supervisor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,857 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
POLICE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

POLICE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

City of Burbank

Burbank, CA

$125K - $165K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


City Of Burbank rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

622nd of 691 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT Open to all qualified candidates. Tentative examination dates for this recruitment Week of 08/10/26 - Blind Application and Supplemental Scoring Week of 08/24/26 - Oral Interview Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.

Under general direction, coordinates, manages, and directs the overall operation of the Burbank Police Department's Communications Center; and perform related work as required. Essential Functions Plans, coordinates, and manages the operations of the Police Communications Center including the radio and computer dispatch system, telephone/radio recording system, and burglar alarm system; administers the operations of the computer-aided dispatch center, providing emergency dispatching and radio communications on a 24-hour, 7 day a week basis to assure a timely response to calls for service by field units; participates in the development and implementation of policies, goals, and objectives associated with Communications Center services, programs, and activities; identifies and applies opportunities for improving service delivery methods; determines resource needs; identifies scheduling and staffing needs while monitoring work flow; participates in the development and administration of the Communications Center budget, including the forecasting of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; monitor and approve expenditures; directs programs for the maintenance and repair of the Communications Center and dispatch systems; participates in the development and implementation of training in law enforcement operations in police communications; responds to court subpoenas; represents the Police Department and the City at public and legal proceedings; collaborates with other Department staff, which includes participating on committees; prepares and maintains accurate reports and records, both manually and electronically; participates in outside professional groups; maintains an awareness of trends and developments in the field of police communications, incorporating new developments as appropriate; investigates complaints and recommends appropriate action; seeks, reviews, and administers grants; works cooperatively with other City departments and outside agencies; coordinates Police Department communications and dispatch activities with other divisions, outside agencies, and associated organizations; performs the duties of a Communications Operator or Communications Supervisor when necessary; supervises, trains, and evaluates employees; makes effective recommendations regarding hiring, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary action as needed, up to and including termination; may serve in place of the Support Services Division Captain in their absence; performs related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Employment Standards: Knowledge of operational characteristics, services, and routine activities of modern law enforcement communications, dispatch, and computerized record-keeping systems; rules and regulations of the Federal Communication Commission covering the operation of radio receivers and transmitters; policies and procedures of the Communications Center manual, the Burbank Police Department Policy Manual, California Penal and Vehicle Codes, and the Burbank Municipal Code; management information systems; major landmarks and roadways within the City of Burbank; principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision; spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Skill in operating modern computers and related software; exercising independent judgement and decisions based on standard policy and procedures; interacting and communicating tactfully and effectively, especially during emergency response personnel management and supervision. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; think clearly and act quickly in emergencies; lead, coach, instruct, and motivate employees; maintain accurate records; simultaneously receive, dispatch, and record information utilizing a computer data base system; work varied hours as needed; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public; lead a work group to achieve the goals and objectives of the Communications Center and the Burbank Police Department. Education/Training: Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City.

Example combination includes, but is not limited to graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, criminal justice, or a closely related field; five years' experience as a Communications Supervisor or equivalent. License & Certificates: Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Dispatcher Supervisor Certification at time of appointment. All required licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.

Supplemental Information A valid California Class "C" driver's license or equivalent may be required at time of appointment. Desirable Qualifications: Bilingual language aptitude in Armenian, Korean, Spanish, or American Sign Language.


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