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Police Dispatcher Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

E911 Dispatcher

Adel, IA · On-site

$28.83 - $33.14/hr

This position is responsible for the dispatching of police, medical and fire services on a county wide basis and receiving, securing and disseminating information to and from police officers, police ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

We Commit And Never Quit Dispatcher Requirements: * Experienced technician * Strong understanding of technician dispatching and shop workflow * Outgoing and approachable personality * Excellent ...

We Commit And Never Quit Dispatcher Requirements: * Experienced technician * Strong understanding of technician dispatching and shop workflow * Outgoing and approachable personality * Excellent ...

We Commit And Never Quit Dispatcher Requirements: * Experienced technician * Strong understanding of technician dispatching and shop workflow * Outgoing and approachable personality * Excellent ...

We Commit And Never Quit Dispatcher Requirements: * Experienced technician * Strong understanding of technician dispatching and shop workflow * Outgoing and approachable personality * Excellent ...

We Commit And Never Quit Dispatcher Requirements: * Experienced technician * Strong understanding of technician dispatching and shop workflow * Outgoing and approachable personality * Excellent ...

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Showing results 1-20

Police Dispatcher information

See Iowa salary details

$25.8K

$60.5K

$95.3K

How much do police dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for police dispatcher 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 professionals who receive emergency and non-emergency calls, gather crucial information, and coordinate the appropriate police response. They use communication systems to dispatch officers, relay instructions, and provide support during incidents. Dispatchers play a vital role in ensuring public safety by maintaining clear and efficient communication between the public and law enforcement agencies.

What does a police dispatcher do?

As a police dispatcher, your duties are to answer emergency phone calls, relay essential information to law enforcement or other emergency response agencies, and coordinate emergency responders. This information includes the nature of the caller’s situation as well as essential information about the address and any known criminal activity at the location. You are also responsible for providing the caller with useful information about safety and the timeframe for a response. In addition to your responsibilities during an emergency call, it is your duty to log all calls and file routine reports related to your shift.

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 communication skills, the ability to multitask under pressure, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is crucial. Exceptional decision-making, emotional resilience, and attention to detail help dispatchers effectively manage stressful situations and support first responders. These skills ensure timely, accurate information flow and public safety in critical situations.

What are some common challenges police dispatchers face during high-stress situations, and how are they supported in managing these challenges?

Police dispatchers often handle multiple emergency calls simultaneously, requiring quick thinking and clear communication under pressure. High-stress situations, such as coordinating responses to major incidents or dealing with distressed callers, can be emotionally demanding. To support dispatchers, agencies typically provide thorough training, access to mental health resources, and structured debriefings after particularly difficult calls. Teamwork and strong supervisory support are also essential, ensuring dispatchers are not working in isolation and can rely on colleagues during intense shifts.

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

AspectPolice DispatcherEmergency Medical Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some certifications in dispatchingHigh school diploma or GED; CPR and emergency medical dispatch certifications
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, emergency call centersEmergency call centers, hospitals, ambulance services
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies

Police Dispatchers and Emergency Medical Dispatchers both operate in emergency call centers, handling urgent calls. Police Dispatchers primarily coordinate law enforcement responses, while Emergency Medical Dispatchers focus on medical emergencies. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, making them closely related in the emergency response industry.

How to 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 written exam. Some agencies require certification in emergency medical dispatch or other relevant skills, and candidates must often demonstrate strong communication and multitasking abilities.

Is being a police dispatcher a good career?

Police dispatchers play a critical role in emergency response by relaying information between callers and officers, often working in high-pressure environments. The job typically requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle stressful situations, with opportunities for advancement and job stability in law enforcement agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa?

For Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Dispatcher jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Police Dispatcher jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Police Dispatcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Dispatcher job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% 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.

$28.83 - $33.14/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Dallas County (Texas) rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 852 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description This position is responsible for the dispatching of police, medical and fire services on a county wide basis and receiving, securing and disseminating information to and from police officers, police agencies, citizens and other emergency public agencies. **CritiCall Testing will be required of all selected applicants, prior to interview** Job Duties Operates telephone console to receive incoming emergency and non-emergency requests for public safety service obtaining relevant information from the caller and providing instructions to maintain caller safety. 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 Dispatch (EMD) protocols as prescribed by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch to applicable phone calls. Query, Interpret, and manage entries in the Iowa On-line Warrants and Articles (IOWA) System and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) System. Manage and validate records, including but not limited to warrants, orders of protection, missing persons and stolen vehicles and articles, on behalf of the law enforcement agencies within Dispatch's jurisdictions Utilize a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to record all calls for service from both phone calls and field personnel, and maintain an up to the minute status on all assigned field personnel.

Utilize a record management system (RMS) to maintain in-house electronic records. Operate standard office equipment and computer software including a multifunction printer and Microsoft Office Suite. Record and report any communications equipment/system malfunctions to appropriate personnel within reasonable time.

Be familiar with and utilize backup systems and protocols when necessary to maintain full services at all times. Completes regular, assigned in-service training as prescribed by the dispatch Training Coordinator. Monitors Iowa Courts Online and the Iowa EDMS system for relevant Court Documents.

Maintains Logs of Incoming/Outgoing documents and warrant validations. Serves as liaison for Dallas County Dispatch and the Dallas County Clerk of Court Performs related duties as assigned. Qualifications EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE High school diploma or equivalent.

One to two years work related experience in a communications or law enforcement field preferred. Ability to obtain Priority Dispatch certification in EMD protocols within a time frame established by the employer and maintain throughout duration of employment. Ability to complete and maintain the State required forty (40) hour BASIC Telecommunications State Certification through IOWA Law Enforcement Academy within one (1) year of hire date.

Possession of or ability to obtain a valid State of Iowa driver's license. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES Knowledge of, or ability to learn Priority Dispatch system for Emergency Medical and Fire Dispatching. Knowledge and/or the ability to learn street locations and common places in Dallas County, and surrounding communities and to read maps to determine exact locations for dispatching.

Ability to learn the operation of the Communications Center equipment, including, but not limited to, input and retrieval procedures for the Computer Aided Dispatch system, the IOWA/NCIC computer system, the enhanced 911 system, and the geographical mapping system. Knowledge of, or ability to learn the IOWA System and 911 dispatching skills. Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.

Ability to learn policies, operating procedures and methods utilized in the operations of the Communications Center. Ability to perform job duties efficiently while managing frequent interruptions. Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with the general public governmental officials, law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies, supervisors and co-workers.

Ability to maintain a courteous and professional demeanor when dealing with the general public, all public safety personnel and coworkers. Ability to respond rapidly, effectively, and exercise sound judgment in emergency situations, maintain the emotional composure necessary to organize work and maintain a high level of productivity during periods of stress or high activity. Ability to handle and maintain information of a confidential and sensitive nature.

Skill in problem solving. Skill in prioritizing and planning. Skill in interpersonal relations.

Skill in oral and written communication. Skill in accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to multitask.

Supplemental Information PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects and must distinguish between shades of color. The work is typically performed in the Communications Center.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this job. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Dallas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Dallas County participates in E-Verify.

**CritiCall Testing will be required of all selected applicants, prior to interview**


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