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Police Scanner Radio Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Police Communications Officer

Commerce, TX

$40K/yr

Monitors radio traffic, answers incoming phone calls (including emergency and non-emergency calls ... Archival duties include periodic scanning of police reports, written dispatch logs, and other ...

Tamus

Police Communications Officer

Commerce, TX

$40K/yr

Monitors radio traffic, answers incoming phone calls (including emergency and non-emergency calls ... Archival duties include periodic scanning of police reports, written dispatch logs, and other ...

City of Hutchinson

Police Service Aide

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$12.50/hr

Assists the Police Records division in clerical and data entry functions to include scanning and ... Maintains radio communications and requests back-up as the need arises; Provides customer service ...

Hearst Newspapers

Assignment Editor

Westbrook, ME · On-site

Listen to multiple police scanners which cover more than a dozen agencies throughout our market ... two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S ...

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Police Scanner Radio information

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How much do police scanner radio jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for police scanner radio in the United States is $23.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to work at a radio station?

To work at a police scanner radio or similar radio station roles, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and familiarity with radio equipment and protocols. Some positions may require certifications in radio operation or related fields, and a background check is often necessary due to the nature of law enforcement communications.

Do police radio scanners still work?

Police scanner radios still function and are used to receive public safety communications, but many agencies now encrypt their radio transmissions, which can limit scanner effectiveness. Scanner enthusiasts often need updated equipment and knowledge of local transmission methods to access available signals.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with police scanner radio systems?

Professionals working with police scanner radio systems often encounter challenges such as managing rapidly changing information, maintaining equipment reliability, and ensuring secure communication channels. They need to stay updated with evolving technologies and frequency changes, as well as comply with local laws and regulations regarding radio usage. Strong attention to detail and quick decision-making skills are essential, as the role may involve monitoring multiple channels simultaneously and relaying critical information accurately.

How do I get into working on the radio?

To work as a police scanner radio operator or dispatcher, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant communication skills, and often complete training or certification programs. Some positions require knowledge of radio equipment and emergency procedures, and candidates usually undergo background checks and testing before employment.

What is the difference between Police Scanner Radio vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectPolice Scanner RadioPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsNo formal credentials needed; knowledge of radio frequenciesHigh school diploma; certification or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentListening to live radio transmissions, often independentlyWorking in dispatch centers, coordinating police responses
Industry UsageUsed by enthusiasts, hobbyists, and some security personnelEmployed by police departments and emergency services
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding radio communication toolsLearning about law enforcement communication roles

Police Scanner Radio involves listening to live police radio transmissions, often as a hobby or for information gathering. Police Dispatchers, on the other hand, are trained professionals who coordinate police responses and communicate directly with officers. While both roles involve police communication, they differ significantly in credentials, work environment, and purpose.

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

To thrive as a Police Radio Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized dispatcher training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, two-way radio equipment, and emergency communication protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, stress management, and decision-making skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring effective emergency response, public safety, and efficient coordination among law enforcement units.

Can you work at a police station without being a police officer?

Police scanner radio operators or communication personnel can work at police stations without being sworn police officers, often handling dispatch or radio communications. These roles typically require specific training, certifications, and knowledge of radio systems but do not involve law enforcement duties. Employment may involve shift work and working in a secure environment.

What is a Police Scanner Radio?

A police scanner radio is a device that allows individuals to listen to public radio frequencies used by law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, and other public safety agencies. These radios scan multiple frequencies and stop whenever they detect a transmission, enabling users to monitor real-time communications in their area. Police scanner radios are popular among hobbyists, journalists, and those interested in staying informed about local emergencies and events. However, some jurisdictions may have restrictions on their use or require a license, so it's important to check local laws before using one.
More about Police Scanner Radio jobs
What job categories do people searching Police Scanner Radio jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police Scanner Radio jobs are:
Police Scanner Radio jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Scanner Radio job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,436 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Police Dispatcher Part-Time

Police Dispatcher Part-Time

City of Livingston (CA)

Livingston, CA

$17.05 - $20.72/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Description JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of Communications and Records Manager, perform a variety of duties involved in receiving incoming calls for police, emergency and non-emergency assistance and dispatching necessary police units or contact appropriate public service agencies; perform a variety of general support duties related to dispatch activities including record keeping, typing and filing; enter data into computer-aided dispatch system (CAD); receive and process background checks, warrants, parking, criminal and traffic citations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Receive emergency and non-emergency phone calls for service from the public, affiliated agencies and field personnel; determine nature and location of emergency and priority; maintain contact with all units on assignment; maintain status and location of police field units; monitor radio traffic. Answer and respond to calls for service; dispatch emergency units as necessary and in accordance with established procedures; respond to officer's radio calls; coordinate emergency calls and relay information and assistance requests involving other public safety agencies.

Assist citizens at service window requesting service; accept and process cash payments for police services rendered; process records requests received via fax or mail. Receive and process background checks at service window, for background investigators and for immigration purposes. Receive and process warrants, parking, criminal and traffic citations; process CHP 180 forms; enter, modify and cancel entries and monitor responses of the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS); send, receive and monitor County systems for probation, warrants, protection orders and subpoenas; monitor messages from administrators; scan forms as required into assigned systems.

Enter a variety of information into assigned databases including parking, criminal and traffic citations, vehicle releases, animal control, vehicle repossessions, emergency protection orders and subpoenas; print reports and data from CLETS and County Systems. Perform a variety of record keeping, filing, indexing and other general clerical work; maintain a variety of documents relating to public safety activities, including officers' briefing binders and vehicle releases; use the Records Management Systems (RMS)/Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Request and share information with multiple organizations including Merced County Sheriff's Department, California Highway Patrol, Cal Fire, Merced County Probation and Juvenile Courts and other related agencies.

Provide training and work direction to Dispatch trainees. Operate a multi-line telephone system; operate a computer and assigned software. Assist with tasks and projects throughout the Police Department as needed.

OTHER DUTIES: Perform related duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Knowledge of: Principles, practices, and procedures involved in public safety communications work.

Computer, telephone and mapping systems. Geography of the City and the location of streets and important buildings. California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS).

Learn Records Management Systems (RMS) and Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems. Operation of radio/telephone receiving and transmitting equipment. Applicable laws, municipal codes, regulations, policies and procedures related to police records.

Operation of a computer and assigned software. Principles, practices, policies, and regulations regarding police dispatching services. Report writing, editing and proofreading.

Principles of training and police dispatching operations. Ability to: Understand English and speak it clearly in a well-modulated voice using good diction and appropriate grammar. Prioritize needs of callers, lobby contacts and officers.

Understand computer, telephone and mapping systems. Write clear, concise reports and instructions. Identify and implement efficient work practices and procedures.

Train police dispatch trainees in the use of communications equipment. Compile, review and verify input and output data to assure accuracy and efficiency. Understand specific terminologies including 10 & 11 Codes, abbreviations, etc.

Learn and apply Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations governing voice, radio and teletype communications. Effectively work under conditions of emergency and remain and calm and focused to obtain critical information. Make quick and appropriate determinations in all situations and adjust quickly to changing situations and priorities.

Type and input data accurately at an acceptable rate of speed. Monitor a multiple channel radio system. Establish and maintain accurate records and reports.

Accurately read and interpret maps. Remain courteous and calm while interacting with the public. Multi-task and handle simultaneous calls.

Listen and comprehend radio calls while talking on the phone. Work confidentially with discretion. Education and Experience: Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities is: Graduation from high school or equivalent GED. One year of experience in providing information and assistance to the public. Licenses, Certifications and other Requirements: Valid CA Class C driver's license.

California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) certifications. P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatch Certificate within twelve (12) months of appointment

Typing certificate of 40 words per minute. WORKING CONDITIONS: Work Environment: Indoor/Police Dispatch environment. Evening, weekend or variable work hours.

Physical Demands: Wearing headsets while on duty. Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard. Seeing to read a variety of materials.

Sitting for extended periods of time. Hearing or speaking to exchange information. Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to file and retrieve materials.

Hazards: Contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed.

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