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Police Dispatch Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Security Officer

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.03 - $31.39/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... police, emergency medical, or customer service.WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Works in ...

Security Officer

Providence, RI

$16 - $19.25/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... police, emergency medical, or customer service.WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Works in ...

Security Officer

Providence, RI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... security, police, emergency medical, or customer service. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL ...

Security Officer

Providence, RI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... security, police, emergency medical, or customer service. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL ...

Security Officer

Providence, RI

$16 - $19.25/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... police, emergency medical, or customer service.WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Works in ...

Security Officer

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.03 - $31.39/hr

... Dispatcher for investigation. Protects Hospital buildings, assets and premises as assigned and ... police, emergency medical, or customer service.WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Works in ...

Showing results 41-60

Police Dispatch information

See Rhode Island salary details

$26.9K

$63.1K

$99.4K

How much do police dispatch jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for police dispatch in Rhode Island is $63,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $72,500.00 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 Rhode Island are hiring for Police Dispatch jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Police Dispatch job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Dispatch job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,125 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Communication Control Officer

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Receive, route, and dispatch requests for services through the Communication Center.

  • Maintain an accurate status of all field units, monitor radio frequencies, and react to alarm systems.

  • Operate the base station radio system, maintain logs, and communicate information to field officers and other officials.


Brown University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:
Job Description
The Communication Control Officer is responsible for performing specialized work in receiving, routing and dispatching requests for services which come through the Communication Center; for maintaining as accurate status of all field units; for monitoring various radio frequencies; for maintaining and reacting to alarm systems; for maintaining specified logs; for initiating Communication Receipts and for performing routine clerical tasks. They shall be required to perform miscellaneous tasks as assigned.
  • Must be able to operate the base station radio system in accordance with proper radio procedure and FCC regulations. The Dispatcher will receive information from and dispatch assignments to various field units concerning reported incidents of a criminal nature and/or requests for services.
  • Must initiate CAD system input to handle all information coming into the Communication
  • Center as a means for informing different sections/departments of a need for repair or follow-up, as well as keeping Department supervisors informed of all pertinent information.
  • Must maintain a complete and accurate Radio Log for the tour of duty by means of data entry into the computerized CAD system.
  • Must monitor and receive by radio, telephone, security and fire alarms, etc.; information relative to the public safety status of the University and surrounding community.
  • Must be able to determine the significance of the communication and according to established policies and procedures, with considerable latitude for judgment, initiate action and communicate information to field officers and other appropriate officials and agencies prioritizing in the event of increased activity.
  • Must maintain and prepare all logs and files as indicated, provide information to members and guests of the University; must maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
  • Must control keys of various organizations per written procedures and maintain the integrity of the key cabinet working with the University Lock Shop.
  • Monitor Providence Police and Fire Department radio frequencies and rebroadcast relevant information to patrol officers.

Qualifications
  • Must have a voice compatible in tone and diction with the radio and telephone systems and be able to communicate effectively and coherently over law enforcement radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications.
  • Must be capable of prioritizing tasks and handling a multiphasic position.
  • Must have strong verbal communications skills and be able to effectively communicate with people, including juveniles, by giving information and directions.
  • Must have strong typing/computer skills.
  • Must be able to prepare reports, including sketches, using appropriate grammar, symbols and mathematical computations.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma/GED.
  • Must pass a physical examination administered by the University.
  • Must not have any felony or serious misdemeanor convictions
  • Must pass a criminal background investigation.
  • Must successfully pass this Department's Communication Control Officer training program.
  • Must successfully complete a 12-month probationary period (6 months if promoted to position). An employee transferred or promoted from a part-time to a full-time position, or an employee transferred or promoted during the first twelve months of employment with the Department, shall serve a twelve (12) month probation in the new position.
  • Must successfully pass an assessment of skills needed to perform dispatching skills, both listening and written assessment.

Benefits of Working at Brown:
Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.
Recruiting Start Date:
2025-10-03
Job Posting Title:
Communication Control Officer
Department:
Public Safety and Emergency Management
Grade:
Department of Public Safety
Worker Type:
Employee
Worker Sub-Type:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Position Work Location:
Onsite
Submission Guidelines:
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.
Brown is an E-Verify Employer.
EEO Statement:
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

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