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Sheriff Department Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Sheriff Department Dispatcher information

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$11

$22

$33

How much do sheriff department dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for sheriff department dispatcher in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sheriff Department Dispatcher vs Police Dispatcher?

AspectSheriff Department DispatcherPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCounty sheriff's office, often rural or suburban areasMunicipal police department, urban or city settings
Employer & IndustryCounty government, law enforcementCity government, law enforcement
Common Search/ComparisonSheriff Department Dispatcher vs Police Dispatcher

Both Sheriff Department Dispatchers and Police Dispatchers handle emergency calls, dispatch officers, and require similar certifications. The main difference lies in their work environment and employer—Sheriff Dispatchers work for county sheriff's offices, often in rural or suburban areas, while Police Dispatchers serve city police departments. Understanding these distinctions helps applicants choose the right career path within law enforcement communication roles.

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

To thrive as a Sheriff Department Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies requiring additional specialized training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is essential. Excellent communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate information relay, quick response times, and effective coordination during emergencies, which are vital for public and officer safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Sheriff Department Dispatchers during high-stress situations, and how are they supported in managing these challenges?

Sheriff Department Dispatchers often encounter high-pressure situations, such as coordinating emergency responses or handling multiple critical calls simultaneously. These challenges require quick decision-making, excellent communication, and the ability to remain calm under stress. Dispatchers are typically supported through ongoing training, access to peer support programs, and established protocols designed to guide their actions during emergencies. Additionally, teamwork and continuous feedback from supervisors help dispatchers manage stress and maintain effective service.

What are Sheriff Department Dispatchers?

Sheriff Department Dispatchers are trained professionals who receive and coordinate emergency and non-emergency calls for a sheriff’s department. They communicate with the public, gather critical information, and dispatch law enforcement officers or other emergency personnel to various situations. Dispatchers use specialized computer systems and radio equipment to track incidents and ensure officer safety. Their work is vital for effective law enforcement response and public safety. They must remain calm under pressure and have excellent communication and multitasking skills.
More about Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most Sheriff Department Dispatcher job openings:
What states have the most Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sheriff Department Dispatcher jobs are:
Infographic showing various Sheriff Department Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

$54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description


Position Summary
Works under general supervision of an assigned supervisor in the Communications Center of the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. Operates computer based multi-key telephone instruments, computer aided system, TTY telephone system for the deaf, NCIC/TCIC/SCATS/JMS/JSS/Visions computer systems, computer-based radio consoles, paging, alarm systems, and other systems to provide radio dispatch services to the citizens of Shelby County, Tennessee.
Pay Grade: 48
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum age requirement is 18.
  • Discharged under honorable conditions from armed forces, if applicable
  • Will be screened for misdemeanor/felony record; Must not have been convicted of, or plead guilty to, or entered a plea of no contest to any felony charge, or any violation of federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling, liquor or controlled substance.
  • High school diploma or possess GED at the time of application.
  • Must attend and successfully complete a state mandated training school and NCIC certification class within six (6) months from the date of employment.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Responsible for efficient and effective operation of dispatch office equipment, effective and timely usage of resources and ability to make quick, sound decisions.
  • Receives, monitors, and responds to all incoming emergencies, complaints and routine calls by telephone and radio.
  • Makes decisions and gives Dispatcher information to appropriate manpower by established protocols.
  • Maintains proper operation and maintenance of radios and communication protocols.
  • Leads and directs officers to designated locations.
  • Develops and maintains records/logs of all calls and ensures established within protocols.
  • Relays certain calls and information to supervisor and/or shift leader as established within protocols.
  • Advises supervisor of problems with communications equipment and ensures constant working order.
  • Maintains records and files under established guidelines.
  • Performs other related duties as required or directed.

KSAs
  • Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, equipment, and machines.
  • Knowledge of Business English, arithmetic, and data processing.
  • Knowledge of statistical interpretations, procedures, and presentation.
  • Ability to operate selected machines or equipment, typewriter, calculator, copy machines, fax machines, and cash register.
  • Ability to perform a variety of clerical tasks.

Special Requirements
  • Must pass an Assessment Skills Pre-Employment Test (Critical).
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends.
  • Individuals will be required to successfully pass all certification/training requirements for each experience level of Dispatcher.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a medical evaluation, psychological evaluation and a drug screen.
  • Experience working on a multi-line phone system or 2-way radio system is highly desired.
  • Must be able to multi-task in an intense environment.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.