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Police Department Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of San Diego, CA

Dispatcher II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$68K - $82K/yr

Police Department Dispatcher II employees typical starting hourly rate is $31.30. * Police ... Department Dispatcher II employees must obtain a California P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher Course ...

City of San Diego, CA

Dispatcher I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

Police Department Dispatcher I employees typical starting hourly rate is $28.46. * Police ... Department Dispatcher I employees must obtain a California P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher Course ...

City of Azusa, CA

Police Dispatcher Lateral

Azusa, CA · On-site

$5.4K - $6.6K/mo

City of Azusa, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 23-16 Department: Police Opening Date: 08/17/2023 Closing Date: Continuous Definition To be considered as a Police Dispatcher Lateral, applicants ...

the City of Azle, TX

Police Dispatcher

Azle, TX · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Dispatcher Department: Police Immediate Supervisor: Public Safety Communications Supervisor Positions Supervised: None FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Schedule: Rotating/Requires Nights, Weekends ...

Town of Grand Coteau

Dispatcher

Grand Coteau, LA

Grand Coteau Police Department Dispatcher A dispatcher is our company's first point of contact for emergency and non-emergency calls. In this position, you are to be alert, professional and reliable.

Baylor University

Police Dispatcher

Waco, TX

This position serves within the Department of Public Safety and reports to the Baylor Police ... Dispatcher Qualifications * All applicants shall possess a minimum of a high school diploma ...

Baylor University

Police Dispatcher

Waco, TX · On-site

This position serves within the Department of Public Safety and reports to the Baylor Police ... Dispatcher Qualifications * All applicants shall possess a minimum of a high school diploma ...

City of Glendora, CA

Police Dispatcher

Glendora, CA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

JB00169 Department: Police Department Opening Date: 08/22/2023 Closing Date: Continuous The ... Some of the typical duties of the Police Dispatcher I/II include but are not limited to, the ...

Sacramento State

Police Dispatcher

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$6.7K/mo

Police Dispatcher Classification Title: Police Dispatcher I Special Instructions to Applicants ... Our Department adheres to the highest standards of ethics, integrity and service, understanding our ...

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Police Department Dispatcher information

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How much do police department dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for police department dispatcher in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Why do 911 dispatchers quit?

911 dispatchers often leave the job due to high stress levels, emotional burnout, and the demanding nature of handling emergency calls. The shift work, exposure to traumatic situations, and the need for strong communication skills can contribute to job dissatisfaction and turnover.

What are some common challenges faced by Police Department Dispatchers, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Police Department Dispatchers often face high-pressure situations that require quick thinking, multitasking, and emotional resilience. They must efficiently prioritize calls, communicate clearly with field officers, and remain calm during emergencies or distressing situations. Applicants can prepare by developing strong stress-management techniques, practicing clear verbal communication, and familiarizing themselves with dispatch technology and procedures. Training and support from experienced team members are typically available, helping new dispatchers adjust to the fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Police Department Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies requiring additional certifications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency call protocols is essential. Outstanding communication, stress management, and emotional resilience help dispatchers remain calm and effective under pressure. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring timely and accurate emergency response, supporting first responders, and maintaining public safety.

Is it hard to get a job as a police dispatcher?

Becoming a police dispatcher typically requires passing a written exam, background check, and sometimes a physical or psychological assessment. Candidates often need good communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and relevant training or certification. Competition can vary depending on the location and department, but meeting the minimum requirements is essential for consideration.

What is the difference between Police Department Dispatcher vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice Department DispatcherPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; communication or dispatch certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training and certification
Work EnvironmentDispatch center, handling calls and radio communicationPatrol, crime scenes, community interaction
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, emergency servicesLaw enforcement agencies, public safety
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesCareer differences, training, and duties

While both roles are vital to law enforcement, Police Department Dispatchers focus on communication and coordination, whereas Police Officers are involved in enforcement and patrol duties. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

What is the highest paying dispatcher job?

The highest paying dispatcher jobs are often in specialized fields such as airline or emergency medical dispatching, with salaries exceeding $60,000 annually. Police department dispatchers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and additional certifications like CPR or emergency medical response training.

What does it take to be a police dispatcher?

To become a police dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Many departments require completion of training programs and may prefer prior experience in emergency services or call centers. Certification in emergency dispatching is often recommended or required.

What does a Police Department Dispatcher do?

A Police Department Dispatcher is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering essential information, and dispatching police officers or other emergency responders to the scene. They act as a critical link between the public and law enforcement, ensuring that help is sent quickly and efficiently. Dispatchers must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and use specialized computer systems to track incidents and units. Their work is vital to public safety and the effective operation of police departments.
More about Police Department Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Department Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most Police Department Dispatcher job openings:
What states have the most Police Department Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Department Dispatcher jobs include:
Police Department Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Department Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, and 98% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.
Police Department Dispatcher

Police Department Dispatcher

City of Gulfport

Gulfport, MS • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Police Dispatcher

Department: Police

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Salary: $35,146.68 - $40,341.22

Per Mississippi State Statute 21-31-63: Any applicant for a position of any kind under civil service must be a citizen of the United States and an elector of the county in which he resides and must meet only such bona fide occupational residency requirements as may be determined by the civil service commission or the governing authority of the municipality.

Position Overview

The Police Dispatcher operates communications equipment to receive and transmit messages and information including police and fire emergencies. Information is transmitted upon request or according to established procedures.

The Police Dispatcher is expected to exercise judgment in performing routine work under the general direction of a supervisor who is available for immediate consultation on non-routine matters.

Essential Job Functions

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, May include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

  • Operates telephones, radios, and all other essential communications equipment.
  • Receives calls which must be properly processed: obtain address and nature of call; dispatches appropriate personnel and equipment to the scene.
  • Maintains radio contact with all fire units in the field.
  • Maintains status and current information on all units in and out of service.
  • Receives routine calls and gives information as requested by the public and officers.
  • Receives and transmits messages between field units and with other Public Safety Agencies.
  • Assists in testing radio frequencies, make routine announcements. and relays messages via radio.
  • Maintains wrecker log in CAD.
  • Is familiar with the General Orders used by the department.
  • Knows signal and 10 dash codes used by the department.
  • Uses the NCIC computer and obtain a working knowledge of the system and laws that govern its use.
  • Monitors alarms and the R.U.O.K. program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

  • 2+ years experience in the operation of two-way radio and/or telephone switchboard equipment, including some experience in general typing and clerical work.
  • Must demonstrate a typing skill of 30 words per minute.
  • Must have the ability to work shift work as well as nights, weekends, & holidays.

Education and Experience

High School graduate of equivalent.

Required Licenses or Certificates

Must meet requirements to become a State Certified Telecommunicator.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical requirements include occasional lifting/carrying of 10+ pounds; visual acuity, speech and hearing; hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate a computer keyboard and basic office equipment. Subject to sitting, standing, reaching, walking, twisting and kneeling to perform the essential functions. Working conditions are indoors with a moderate to high noise level and a consistent, high stress level.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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