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Police Dispatch Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Police Sergeant

Ames, IA

Under general supervision, exercises functional supervisory control over a unit of Police Officers and Trainees, Public Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dispatchers as directed to ensure proper ...

Iowa State University

Police Sergeant

Ames, IA · On-site

Under general supervision, exercises functional supervisory control over a unit of Police Officers and Trainees, Public Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dispatchers as directed to ensure proper ...

Dallas County, IA

E911 Dispatcher

Adel, IA · On-site

$28.83 - $33.14/hr

Dispatch Opening Date: 08/19/2026 Closing Date: 9/16/2026 4:30 PM Central This position is responsible for the dispatching of police, medical and fire services on a county wide basis and receiving ...

Dallas County

E911 Dispatcher

Adel, IA · On-site

$28.83 - $33.14/hr

Operates Motorola radio system to communicate with police, fire and medical personnel, and surrounding jurisdictions for mutual aid purposes. Apply Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) and Emergency Medical ...

City of Ames

Temporary Public Safety Dispatcher

Ames, IA · On-site

$16.88 - $26/hr

General Information The City of Ames Police Department is currently accepting applications for a Temporary Public Safety Dispatcher. A Public Safety Dispatcher with the Ames Police Department ...

Boone County Iowa

Dispatcher

Boone, IA · On-site

$23.85 - $28.06/hr

Dispatching of police, medical and fire services on a county-wide basis. Calls for services received from various police agencies and E911 system. Operate police radio system, national crime computer ...

Boone County Iowa

Dispatcher

Beaver, IA · On-site

Dispatching of police, medical and fire services on a county-wide basis. Calls for services received from various police agencies and E911 system. Operate police radio system, national crime computer ...

City of Ames, IA

Public Safety Dispatcher

Ames, IA · On-site

$57K/yr

Police Opening Date: 08/05/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 12:00 PM Central FLSA: Non-Exempt Bargaining ... dispatch software. * Ability to multitask. * Ability to operate complex Public Safety related ...

City of Ames

Public Safety Dispatcher

Ames, IA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

A Public Safety Dispatcher with the Ames Police Department performs work involved in the operation of a complex communications system; receives and handles both emergency and non-emergency ...

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All JobsPolice Dispatch JobsPolice Dispatch Jobs in Iowa

Police Dispatch information

See Iowa salary details

$25.8K

$60.5K

$95.3K

How much do police dispatch jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for police dispatch in Iowa is $60,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police dispatcher?

Police dispatchers are trained professionals who receive emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and coordinate the appropriate police response. They gather crucial information from callers, assess the situation, and communicate with police officers via radio or computer to ensure a quick and effective response. Dispatchers play a vital role in public safety by remaining calm under pressure, multitasking, and providing instructions to callers until help arrives. Their work is essential for maintaining efficient communication between the public and law enforcement agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police dispatcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, clear communication skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies requiring specialized training or certifications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and emergency phone systems is essential. Exceptional composure under pressure, active listening, and problem-solving skills help dispatchers effectively manage high-stress situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring swift, accurate emergency response and maintaining public and officer safety.

What are some common challenges faced by police dispatchers during high-pressure situations, and how can they manage stress effectively?

Police dispatchers frequently encounter high-pressure situations, such as coordinating emergency responses or handling multiple calls simultaneously. Staying calm under pressure, prioritizing tasks, and communicating clearly with officers and callers are essential skills. Many agencies provide ongoing training and access to support resources, like peer counseling or stress management programs, to help dispatchers cope with job-related stress. Building strong teamwork and maintaining open communication with colleagues can also make challenging shifts more manageable.

What is the difference between Police Dispatch vs Emergency Medical Dispatcher?

AspectPolice DispatchEmergency Medical Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, emergency call centersMedical call centers, emergency response centers
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agenciesHealthcare and emergency medical services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Dispatch and Emergency Medical Dispatch both involve handling emergency calls, but they serve different agencies and require specific certifications. Police Dispatch focuses on law enforcement emergencies, while Emergency Medical Dispatch centers on medical emergencies. Both roles are vital in emergency response systems and share similar work environments and credential requirements.

How do you become a police dispatcher?

To become a police dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a dispatcher training program, and pass a background check and aptitude tests. Strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and knowledge of radio and computer systems are also important for the role.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Police Dispatch jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Police Dispatch job openings:

Police Dispatch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Dispatch job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,544 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Police Sergeant

Iowa State University

Ames, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Police SergeantJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications: Possession of certification from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy as a Law Enforcement Officer, or
Possession of law enforcement certification in another state and successful completion of all application and examination requirements as outlined in Iowa Administrative Code 501-3.8(80B), and
Two years experience at the Police Officer or equivalent level; or AA/AAS in Criminal Justice or Police Science or 60 semester hours/90 quarter hours from an accredited college or university and one year experience at the Police Officer or equivalent level.Special Required QualificationsValid U.S. Driver's LicenseJob Description:
The Department of Public Safety at Iowa State University is seeking a qualified candidate for the Police Sergeant role who will act as shift supervisor in the absence of the Lieutenant.

This person will be responsible for:

  • Assigning tasks

  • Reviewing reports

  • Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the shift

  • Updating the shift Lieutenant regarding shift activities

  • Providing input into employee evaluations

  • Providing backup for other public safety staff at the scene of incidents and accidents as requested or required

This position may also be subject to rotation through other Sergeant assignments. Under general supervision, exercises functional supervisory control over a unit of Police Officers and Trainees, Public Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dispatchers as directed to ensure proper performance of duties. Provides back-up for other Public Safety staff at the scene of accidents and incidents.

Iowa State University Police Department employees will support the Department's vision and mission by operating in a fair, unbiased manner, which respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. Department employees' everyday actions are guided by the Department's values of Respect, Integrity, Caring, Honor, Excellence and Service (RICHES) and be grounded in the highest ethical and professional standards. Department employees are expected to work in partnership with the campus and area communities to provide leadership in solving community problems, preventing crime and providing a safe environment to fulfill the mission of the University. Employees will strive for excellence in fulfilling the Department's Mission and Vision Statements, values and goals.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a university law enforcement agency

Applicants successfully hired who are certified law enforcement officers will be eligible for recruitment incentive payments* in the total amount of $10,000.

*Full details and terms of payment will be provided in payment agreements for those successfully hired.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Monitors activities of subordinate staff by driving through their assigned zones on campus and by other means observing and reviewing their work. Reports violation of departmental policies to Lieutenant and recommends corrective action.

Directs and instructs shift officers and advises subordinate staff on departmental policies. Provides the communication link from the Lieutenant and department administration to the Police Officers and back.

Evaluates strengths and weaknesses of Police Officers for input into performance appraisals.

Interviews, recommends hiring and supervises the training of new employees; checks and evaluates the performance of subordinate personnel, makes recommendations with respect to personnel actions.

May assume duties of the shift commander in the absence of the Lieutenant.

Performs the duties of Police Officer.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of state criminal and traffic code, city ordinances, and Constitutional law.

Skill in observing and reviewing the work of Police Officers.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties of Security Guard, Police Officer, and Public Safety Dispatcher.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:22Original Posting Date:August 17, 2026Posting Close Date:September 6, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19784

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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