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Police Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Police Communications Operator

Campus, IL ยท On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

* Answers emergency and non-emergency telephones and police radios. * Provides radio communications for University Police officers and Public Safety Officers on campus. * Initiates and receives ...

The Police Dispatcher receives incoming calls for police services, dispatches officers as ... operating system. * Ability to understand and apply concepts presented in training programs and ...

Follow CSUPD on Instagram and CSU Police Department on Facebook Position Location Main Campus FTE 1.0 Job Summary Independently performs duties of certified peace officer using standard operating ...

Police Dispatcher

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$23.25/hr

Experience as a telephone operator or police dispatcher preferred. Mental/Physical Requirements: Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions ...

Police Dispatcher

Campus, IL ยท On-site

$35K/yr

The SFPD Police Dispatcher will work as part of a cohesive team and facilitate essential ... Keeps a record of operating procedures and may share position specific knowledge, including use of ...

$27.19/hr

Campus Police Officers provide a wide range of services, including both traditional and non ... Any problems that do not fall within the standard operating procedures include all general and ...

Police Officer

Palatine, IL ยท On-site

$63K - $75K/yr

... operating condition. * Determines content for various public safety programs such as crime ... The Police Officer is directly supervised by Deputy Chief and Chief of Police, Harper College ...

Lateral-Entry Police Officer

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$88K - $125K/yr

Geneva, Police Department Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 00003 Department: Police Department ... Wide variety of specialty assignments including SWAT Operator, multi-jurisdictional major crimes ...

Police Officer

Rockford, IL ยท On-site

$33.41/hr

Follows standard operating procedures, looks for law /ordinance violations in parks while ... Provides police presence for safety and security at park district events and functions. * Performs ...

Valid Division of Motor Vehicles operator's license. * Ability to obtain and maintain certification inCPRand First Aid. * Must be 21 years of age and a U.S. Citizen. Required for Police Officer II: ...

Police Officer

Rockford, IL ยท On-site

$33.41 - $48.08/hr

Follows standard operating procedures, looks for law /ordinance violations in parks while ... Provides police presence for safety and security at park district events and functions. * Performs ...

Job Title: Chief of University Police Full or Part Time: Full time Hours: 40 Exempt: Yes ... Develops, implements, and administers the department's operating budget, ensuring the strategic ...

Police Officer

Rock Island, IL ยท On-site

$67K - $82K/yr

Requires possession of a valid Class D Illinois Vehicle Operator's License as defined in the 1993 ... of Police Officer. Requires the ability to tolerate extremes of weather, as well as perform ...

Community Action Team (CAT) Officer, Investigations, Firearms Instructor, Field Training Officer (FTO), Evidence Technician, School Resource Officer (SRO), and Drone Operator. The South Elgin Police ...

Police Officer

Rock Island, IL ยท On-site

$67K - $82K/yr

Police-1212 5th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201, IL Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2022-00891 ... Requires possession of a valid Class D Illinois Vehicle Operator's License as defined in the 1993 ...

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Police Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$32.5K

$53.4K

$69.8K

How much do police operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for police operator in Illinois is $53,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $60,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police operator?

Police operators, often referred to as police dispatchers or emergency dispatchers, are responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls, gathering information from callers, and coordinating the appropriate response by dispatching police officers or other emergency services. They play a critical role in ensuring public safety by remaining calm under pressure, accurately relaying information, and prioritizing calls based on urgency. Police operators also use specialized communication systems and databases to assist both callers and officers in the field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a police operator?

To thrive as a Police Operator, you need strong communication abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies requiring additional training or certifications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communications equipment, and emergency response protocols is typically expected. Excellent multitasking, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications are crucial for accurately relaying information, ensuring public safety, and supporting law enforcement personnel during high-stress situations.

What challenges do police operators face during high-pressure situations?

Police Operators often encounter high-pressure situations, such as handling multiple emergency calls simultaneously or dealing with distressed callers. The ability to remain calm, prioritize effectively, and communicate clearly is essential. Operators must quickly relay accurate information to officers in the field while maintaining professionalism and composure. Continuous training, teamwork, and support from supervisors help manage the stress and ensure effective response to emergencies.

What is the difference between Police Operator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectPolice OperatorEmergency Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in communication protocolsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification in emergency communication
Work EnvironmentPolice dispatch centers, emergency call centersEmergency response centers, 911 call centers
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agenciesPublic safety agencies, emergency services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Operators and Emergency Dispatchers often perform similar roles in emergency communication. While both require communication skills and work in emergency call centers, Police Operators typically focus on police-related calls, whereas Emergency Dispatchers handle a broader range of emergencies including fire and medical services. The roles are closely related, with overlapping skills and work environments, but differ in scope and specific responsibilities.

How hard is it to get a police operator job?

Becoming a police operator typically requires meeting minimum age and education requirements, passing written and psychological tests, and completing training at a police academy. The hiring process can be competitive, and candidates often need strong communication skills and the ability to handle stressful situations.

How to become a police operator?

To become a police operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a written exam and background check, and complete a training program at a police academy. Strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and proficiency with radio and computer systems are also important requirements.
Infographic showing various Police Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,416 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Police Communications Operator I

FGCU Florida Gulf Coast University

Campus, IL โ€ข On-site

$43K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Receives and evaluates calls requesting police assistance and inputs call information into dispatch systems.

  • Operates radio and computer systems to dispatch calls to public safety units and communicate information.

  • Prepares logs, reports, and forms related to police communications and activities.


Job description

Job Summary

The Police Communications Operator I operates telephone, radio, and computer systems for computerized radio dispatching, ensuring the safety of officers and the university community. Provides assistance to callers and walk-ins regarding emergencies, found/lost property, parking concerns, and other safety-related issues.
FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.

Job Description

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

  • Receives and evaluates calls requesting police assistance of both emergency and non-emergency natures.
  • Inputs and transmits call information using the communications and dispatch systems.
  • Contacts appropriate parties to notify of complaints and/or actions required.
  • Operates two way radio to dispatch calls to public safety units and to receive and communicate information.
  • Monitors the field position and activities of department personnel.
  • Transmits requests for emergency services and retrieves various data and records.
  • Checks driver's license records, vehicle registrations, stolen article files, warrants, criminal histories, and missing person lists.
  • Monitors alarm systems and notifies personnel upon activation.
  • Prepares various logs, reports and forms.

Other Duties:

  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Additional Job Description

Required Qualifications:

  • This position requires a high school diploma and two years of full-time experience directly related to the job functions.
  • Relevant full-time experience using computer systems for entering, updating, and retrieving information.
  • State NCIC/FCIC certification or ability to obtain within three months of employment.
  • Valid Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator certificate or the ability to obtain within six months of employment.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with 911, police, fire, or emergency medical dispatch.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Proven ability to think strategically and approach challenges with creativity.
  • Demonstrated track record of reliability, meeting goals, and holding oneself accountable.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively across teams.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal communication laws.
  • Knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook).
  • Knowledge of law enforcement agencies in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glade, Hendry, and Sarasota counties.
  • General knowledge of transit policies and procedures pertaining to the university.
  • Knowledge of fire and intrusion alarm monitoring systems and operations.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to operate office equipment including a multi-line telephone system, two-way radios, and video display terminals.
  • Ability to operate personal computers with proficiency and learn new applications and systems.
  • Ability to listen to and understand information presented through spoken words and sentences, retrieve facts, derive meaning, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to interact in a professional manner with staff, faculty, students, and the community in a service-oriented environment.
  • Ability to function effectively in high stress emergency situations.
  • Ability to properly record police services provided, maintain records, and prepare reports and other written materials.
  • Ability to take initiative to plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations when numerous and competing demands are involved.
  • Ability to exercise flexibility, good judgment, and discretion.
  • Ability to work evenings, nights and weekends as necessary.

Institutional Values & Behavioral Expectation

In this role, the successful candidate will be expected to:

  • Seek out new approaches to improve outcomes; remain open for feedback and new ideas.
  • Lead with integrity; consistently produce high-quality work; persevere to overcome obstacles to meet deadlines and achieve deliverables.
  • Share information and insights thoughtfully; build partnerships across departments; communicate respectfully; support colleagues to achieve common goals.

**Special Instructions to Applicants**

There will be a written exam for qualified applicants. Eligible candidates will be contacted via email with further details.

Police Communications Operator I - new hires start at $19.75/hour ($41,250 annual).

After successful completion of training/probation, will be reclassified to Police Communications Operator II with a 5% increase, at $20.75/hour ($43,326.00 annual).

FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.