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Public Safety Telecommunicator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Mesa, AZ

Public Safety Telecommunicator I

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$64K - $84K/yr

A Public Safety Telecommunicator I is the entry-level class in the Public Safety Telecommunicator series and is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and processing all 9-1-1 calls for police, fire ...

City of Mesa

Public Safety Telecommunicator I

Mesa, AZ

$64K - $84K/yr

A Public Safety Telecommunicator I is the entry-level class in the Public Safety Telecommunicator series and is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and processing all 9-1-1 calls for police, fire ...

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Public Safety Telecommunicator information

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$13

$24

$35

How much do public safety telecommunicator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for public safety telecommunicator in the United States is $24.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is public safety dispatcher a hard job?

Public safety dispatchers, also known as telecommunicators, often work in high-pressure environments requiring quick decision-making, multitasking, and strong communication skills. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding due to exposure to emergencies and irregular shifts, but training and experience help manage these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, you need strong multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized emergency dispatch training or certification. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and 911 call-taking software is typically required. Outstanding verbal communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These qualities are vital to ensure accurate, efficient response coordination and to provide critical support during emergencies.

What Is a Public Safety Telecommunicator?

A public safety telecommunicator works at an emergency response center and serves as a midpoint between the public and emergency responders. As a public safety telecommunicator, your job duties involve answering phone calls and relaying information to emergency services. You may also often stay on the phone with callers until emergency responders arrive to provide emotional support and guidance. The career typically requires the completion of an emergency dispatch certification program and on-the-job training. Employers may also request candidates to undergo a personality inventory test, drug screening, and a background investigation. Additional qualifications include the ability to handle high-stress situations and remain calm under pressure, along with strong interpersonal and computer skills.

What are Public Safety Telecommunicators?

Public Safety Telecommunicators are professionals who receive, process, and dispatch emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and emergency medical services. They are often the first point of contact during an emergency, gathering critical information and coordinating the appropriate response teams. Their role is vital for ensuring public safety, as they must remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and use complex technology to manage incidents efficiently. Public Safety Telecommunicators work in dispatch centers and may operate 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Public Safety Telecommunicators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their salaries are usually based on hourly wages or annual pay. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often include specialized roles such as surgeons, corporate executives, or certain investment professionals, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These roles are generally not related to public safety telecommunication work.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Safety Telecommunicators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Public Safety Telecommunicators often face high-pressure situations, including handling multiple emergency calls simultaneously and making quick decisions with limited information. New hires may find it challenging to manage stress, maintain composure, and accurately relay critical information to first responders. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong multitasking abilities, practice active listening, and familiarize yourself with local emergency protocols. Many agencies offer comprehensive training and ongoing support to help new team members build confidence and resilience in this demanding but rewarding role.

How much do public safety telecommunicators make?

Public safety telecommunicators typically earn a median annual wage of around $45,000 to $50,000, though this can vary based on location, experience, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced telecommunicators or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher salaries, often with shift differentials for night or weekend work.

What is the difference between Public Safety Telecommunicator vs Emergency Dispatcher?

AspectPublic Safety TelecommunicatorEmergency Dispatcher
CertificationsTypically requires APCO or NCIC certificationsOften requires similar certifications, including CPR and emergency communication training
Work EnvironmentOperates in 911 call centers, handling emergency callsWorks in emergency dispatch centers, coordinating response units
Employer & IndustryPublic safety agencies, police, fire, EMSPublic safety agencies, police, fire, EMS

Public Safety Telecommunicators and Emergency Dispatchers often perform similar roles within emergency response teams, handling calls and coordinating services. The main difference lies in terminology used by different regions or agencies, but both require comparable certifications and work in similar environments. They are essential for effective emergency response and often overlap in job duties and employer settings.

What do public safety telecommunicators do?

Public safety telecommunicators, also known as dispatchers, answer emergency calls, gather information, and relay it to first responders such as police, fire, or medical personnel. They monitor radio channels, use computer-aided dispatch systems, and remain calm under pressure to ensure quick and accurate response to emergencies.
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Public Safety Telecommunicator jobs near you
Public Safety Telecommunicator I

Public Safety Telecommunicator I

City of Mesa, AZ

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$64K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

City Of Mesa rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 663 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: $64,546.77 - $84,314.26 Annually
Location : PO Box 1466, Mesa, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 17213
Department: (H900) Citywide
Opening Date: 04/10/2026
Closing Date: 7/9/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
Description/Duties
The City of Mesa is pleased to offer a hiring bonus for individuals hired as a Public Safety Telecommunicator I; $1,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the Public Safety Telecommunicator classroom training program, and $1,000 will be paid one year after completion of the training.
This recruitment will be used to fill vacancies in the 911 Call-Taker, Police Dispatching, and Fire Dispatching assignments.
The first review of applications will be on Monday, April, 27 2026.
A Public Safety Telecommunicator I is the entry-level class in the Public Safety Telecommunicator series and is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and processing all 9-1-1 calls for police, fire, and medical assistance; or receiving and dispatching calls and messages for police or fire/emergency medical services, and maintaining radio contact with mobile units. Work involves evaluating incoming calls, dispatching field units, and transmitting information and messages upon request and according to established procedures.
911 Call-Taker Assignment: Receives and evaluates calls from the public concerning crimes, fires, and medical emergencies. Specific duties include: evaluating calls for proper action; initiating Police and Fire/medical response by obtaining information required for dispatching field units; accessing the priority dispatch protocol system which is used to triage emergency medical service requests and supply pre-arrival instructions; entering data into a computer as it is being received; and providing emergency first aid or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) instructions, if appropriate. Calls and messages include routine reports, referral information, and emergency calls for assistance from citizens and public safety personnel. A Public Safety Telecommunicator I in the 911 Call-Taker Assignment enters abandoned vehicle information and performs vehicle registration, Driver's License, stolen vehicle, and wanted persons checks by utilizing a criminal justice information system.
Fire Dispatching Assignment: Dispatches calls and messages for Fire and Medical emergency services and maintains radio contact with mobile units. A Public Safety Telecommunicator I in the Fire Dispatching assignment works in the Mesa Regional Dispatch Center (MRDC) which is responsible for multi-agency dispatching and a valley-wide automatic aide system. Specific duties include: making appropriate notifications and call-outs for major incidents; selecting correct format for dispatching from twelve or more categories; dispatching ground and air ambulances; and contacting other agencies, utilities, airport towers, the Public Information Officer, on-call investigators, numerous specialty teams, and rescue services such as the Red Cross depending on the type of incident.
Police Dispatching Assignment: Dispatches calls and messages for Police emergency services and maintains radio contact with mobile units. A Public Safety Telecommunicator I in the Police Dispatching assignment works in the Police Communications Center which is responsible for dispatching Police Officers for the City of Mesa involving high volume of radio traffic and monitoring of status changes during routine and emergent situations. Calls and messages include routine reports, referral information, and emergency calls for assistance from citizens and Police personnel.
Public Safety Telecommunicator I is a civilian position. All work is performed in accordance with department policies and procedures and local, state, and federal regulations. A Public Safety Telecommunicator I works rotating shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Employees in this class may progress by noncompetitive promotion to the Public Safety Telecommunicator II classification upon meeting the specific criteria-based promotion requirements. The employee must have completed the probationary requirement as a Public Safety Telecommunicator I and demonstrated the level of competency necessary to perform the duties with minimal supervision and assistance. This class is distinguished from the Public Safety Telecommunicator II class by the training responsibilities of the latter. Supervision is received from a Public Safety Communications Shift Supervisor who reviews work through observations on the job and results achieved. This class is FLSA nonexempt.
Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.
Qualifications & Requirements
Employee Values:All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.
Minimum Qualifications Required. Graduation from high school or GED. Good (1 - 3 years) experience in public contact or customer service experience. A minimum typing speed of 35 net words per minute (nwpm) is also required and will be verified prior to employment or promotion to this class. Must successfully pass Criticall test prior to hire or promotion date.
Special Requirements Because of the confidential, sensitive nature of information handled, successful completion of a background investigation is required. Candidates given a conditional job offer will be required to pass a hearing test. Must obtain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification within 60 days of hire/promotion date. All required certifications must be maintained throughout employment. Must not be on the Office of Inspector General (OIG) list of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE).
Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment/pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures.
Preferred/Desirable Qualifications Experience with computer data entry is desirable. Bilingual speaking skills (English/ Spanish) are desirable. Experience in the operation of multiline phone system or radio communications system is desirable.
Link to Job Description
A is linked here.
01
Which vacancies do you want to be considered for? Please check all that apply.
  • 911 Call-Taker Assignment
  • Police Dispatching Assignment
  • Fire Dispatching Assignment
  • I do not know

02
Did you receive a High School Diploma or GED? You must include and detail your education information on your application to receive credit.
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have at least one (1)-year of public contact or customer service experience? To receive credit, you must fully detail this experience in your application. Incomplete/blank applications or responses such as "see resume" will not be considered.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Please describe your public contact or customer service experience below; including employment dates and names of employer(s). If none, type N/A. To receive credit, you must fully detail this experience in your application. Incomplete/blank applications or responses such as "see resume" will not be considered.
05
Were you referred for this position by an employee of the City of Mesa Police Department, Mesa Fire and Medical Department or the Mesa Public Safety Support Department?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you responded "Yes" to the question above, please provide the employee's name and their City of Mesa department in the box below. If 'No,' please type N/A.
07
How did you hear about this position? Check all that apply.
  • Handshake.com
  • Indeed.com
  • LinkedIn
  • Hulu Ad
  • Paramount Ad
  • Recruiting Event
  • City of Mesa Website
  • Other

08
Please provide details if you selected "Other".
09
If you served in the military, what was your discharge status?
  • Honorable
  • Dishonorable
  • Uncharacterized
  • Other than Honorable
  • Entry Level
  • Bad Conduct
  • General
  • Current Active Duty
  • N/A

10
Have you ever been convicted of a felony (this includes criminal convictions out of state that would be considered a felony in Arizona)?
  • Yes
  • No

11
Have you tried or used any of the following drugs unlawfully (without a doctor's prescription or dispensary card): Marijuana, Hashish, Thai Sticks, Barbiturates, Amphetamines,Cocaine, Heroin, Opium, Steroids, or Hallucinogenic Substances?
  • Yes
  • No

12
Have you tried or used any illegal narcotics or dangerous drugs (with the exception of Marijuana) in the past five years?
  • Yes
  • No

13
Have you tried or used any illegal narcotics or dangerous drugs (with the exception of Marijuana) more than 3 times since turning 21 years old?
  • Yes
  • No

14
If an explanation or comments are needed regarding drug usage, please note your information here.
Required Question

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