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Police Scanner Radio Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Assignment Editor/Producer

Omaha, NE

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 ...

Hearst Television

Assignment Editor

Manchester, NH · 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 ...

Audacy, Inc.

TWIN Traffic Reporter

Manhattan, NY

$40.43/hr

... agency/police scanner listening, station tip callers etc.) * Post, edit & manage Traffic ... radio stations, premium podcasts, live events and digital experiences that reach more than 200 ...

City of Globe, AZ

Police Assistant

Globe, AZ · On-site

$32K - $33K/yr

Possess skills to effectively communicate verbal, written and via police radio utilizing proper ... Free Preventative MRI Scans for Self and Dependents * Free Cardiovascular Ultrasounds for Self and ...

Village of Palm Springs

Police Officer

Lake Worth, FL

$72K/yr

Communicate effectively and coherently over law enforcement radio channels. Gather information in ... Must possess a working knowledge of computers, copy machines, scanner, facsimile machine and other ...

iHeartMedia

Traffic Producer - Union

Rutherford, NJ · On-site

More #1 rated markets than the next two largest radio companies combined; * We're the largest ... Sources may include but are not limited to cameras, police scanners, tip-line phone calls, two-way ...

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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.
Assignment Editor/Producer

Assignment Editor/Producer

Hearst

Omaha, NE

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 65 rated media

Job description

KETV, the ABC affiliate in Omaha, NE is looking for a versatile person to join our nightside team as Assignment Editor/ Producer. We're looking for a triple-threat utility player who is aggressive on the assignment desk in breaking news, can help publish content to our digital platforms, and has the editorial judgment and abilities to fill in as a producer. You will find distinctive enterprise stories, oversee crews, and help with day-to-day logistics and planning. As a newsroom leader your impact sets us apart. You will report to the News Director.

Responsibilities

  • Listen to multiple police scanners which cover more than a dozen agencies throughout our market-must have great "scanner ears"
  • Keep track of crews in the field and communicate with them
  • Gather and organize press releases, emails, phone calls and viewer tips. Decide which of the above will yield compelling content for newscasts
  • Assist news management with content gathering and planning
  • Furnish content and post it to all digital platforms-including sending push alerts, and publishing to Facebook, X, YouTube, and Instagram.
  • Fill in as a line producer as needed 

Requirements

  • Experience listening to police scanners
  • Experience with digital platforms, especially social media. You will monitor multiple social media accounts to gather content and communicate with news makers
  • Experience with Pacer, Nexis, and looking up court cases preferred
  • Able to create and maintain professional working relationships with newsmakers
  • Must gather information from multiple sources simultaneously and quickly push it out to anchors, reporters, producers, and digital editors
  • Able to remain calm and level-headed during breaking news situations
  • Previous line producing experience preferred
  • Willing to work a variety of shifts including weekends and nights
  • Related military experience will be considered

Values in Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.

Benefits

Hearst's benefit programs are modern, flexible and designed to focus on you. As a Hearst employee, you and your spouse or partner or dependents would have access to the following benefits.

  • Medical | Dental | Vision
  • 401(k) matching
  • Emotional Wellness Support
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • LGBTQ+ Health Services
  • Additional benefits to meet your and your family's needs
Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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