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Telecommunicator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Basic Telecommunicator (BTC) or Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) certification preferred (Metro will support certification for qualified candidates) * Strong communication and multitasking skills ...

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Telecommunicator information

See New York salary details

$30.1K

$51.5K

$73.3K

How much do telecommunicator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for telecommunicator in New York is $51,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a telecommunicator?

Telecommunicators, also known as public safety or 911 dispatchers, coordinate communications between police officers, emergency personnel, and the public. Their primary duties include receiving calls and obtaining information from people who need assistance and using a two-way radio to dispatch the appropriate services to firefighters, police officers, and first responders. Telecommunicators keep detailed records and may also track drivers and their vehicles.

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

To excel as a Telecommunicator, you generally need strong communication skills, multitasking ability, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and emergency protocols is typically required, along with certifications like APCO or NENA. Outstanding problem-solving, composure under pressure, and active listening are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure fast, accurate information relay and effective emergency response, directly impacting public safety.

What are some common challenges telecommunicators face during high-pressure emergency situations?

Telecommunicators often encounter high-stress scenarios where they must remain calm and collected while quickly gathering vital information from distressed callers. Balancing multiple calls, dispatching appropriate emergency services, and accurately relaying information to first responders requires strong multitasking and communication skills. Emotional resilience is essential, as telecommunicators may handle life-threatening situations and must provide clear guidance under pressure while maintaining professionalism throughout their shift.

What is the difference between Telecommunicator vs Dispatcher?

AspectTelecommunicatorDispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often required to obtain certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, public safety agencies, or transportation servicesEmergency response units, transportation companies, or public safety agencies
Employer & IndustryPublic safety, transportation, or utility companiesLaw enforcement, fire departments, ambulance services, or logistics companies
Job FocusAnswering emergency and non-emergency calls, providing informationDispatching personnel or vehicles to incidents or locations

While both Telecommunicators and Dispatchers handle communication in emergency and service settings, Telecommunicators primarily answer calls and provide information, whereas Dispatchers coordinate response units and direct resources to incidents.

How much do telecommunicators make?

Telecommunicators typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced telecommunicators or those in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, often with shift differentials for night or weekend work.
Infographic showing various Telecommunicator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, NJ • On-site

$48K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Rutgers University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Public Safety Telecommunicator
Job Category
AFSCME 1761 (COLT)
Department
Rutgers Police NB
Overview
The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking Public Safety Telecommunicator for the Police Department.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
  • Monitors, receives, and coordinates all communications with university police, emergency management and emergency services, as well as communications between external partners in police, fire, and medical agencies, including emergency 9-1-1 calls.
  • Receives and coordinates all after traditional business hours calls for requests for facilities maintenance.
  • Handles in-person, text and application-based inquiries and telephone inquiries from the public.
  • Refers calls or dispatches assistance as appropriate.
  • Provides medical pre-arrival instructions for calls received via 9-1-1.
  • Monitors, updates, and maintains various departmental computer-based systems, including but not limited to an electronic Records Management System, NextGen 9-1-1 telephone system, NextGen 9-1-1 Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, Text to 9-1-1 computer application.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Grade
17
Salary Details
Minimum Salary
48001.130
Mid Range Salary
56506.770
Maximum Salary
65370.660
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discount programs

Position Status
Part Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours
40.00
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Union Description
AFSCME - Local 1761 COLT
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment
Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility
PERS
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • High/vocational school diploma or equivalent, plus two years clerical experience.

Certifications/Licenses
  • Must be a certified 9-1-1 operator or receive certification within 90 days of employment.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Requires the ability to record and maintain data in computerized and non-computerized formats.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively.
  • Must have effective client service skills.
  • In accordance with New Jersey State law, applicants must agree to undergo and authorize the university to conduct fingerprint, criminal history and/or child abuse record checks with various law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Identification Division and/or the New Jersey Division of State Police, Bureau of Identification.
  • Must pass a physical examination.
  • Must pass a psychological examination.
  • Must complete continuing education credits to maintain certifications required to perform essential functions of the position.
  • Applicants must also assume any costs incurred by the university associated with the background investigations whether required by statute or not.
  • Must be able to work various shifts, including weekends, overnights, and holidays; occasional overtime is required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Radio communications or dispatcher experience, and professional computer experience are preferred.

Equipment Utilized
  • Communications equipment (computer-aided dispatch equipment, telephones, radios, alarm systems)

Physical Demands and Work Environment
Special Conditions
  • Monitors, receives, and coordinates all communications with university police, emergency management and emergency services, as well as communications between external partners in police, fire, and medical agencies, including emergency 9-1-1 calls.
  • Receives and coordinates all after traditional business hours calls for requests for facilities maintenance. Handles in-person, text and application-based inquiries and telephone inquiries from the public.
  • Refers calls or dispatches assistance as appropriate. Provides medical pre-arrival instructions for calls received via 9-1-1. Monitors, updates, and maintains various departmental computer-based systems, including but not limited to an electronic Records Management System, NextGen 9-1-1 telephone system, NextGen 9-1-1 Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, Text to 9-1-1 computer application.
  • Part-time position- 24hours/week
  • Salary will be pro-rated at 60%

Posting Details
Posting Number
26ST0062
Posting Open Date
01/15/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Message to AFSCME Local 1761 (COLT) members ONLY: To apply, an application or resume must be submitted no later than 9:00 a.m. on Monday ,01/26/2026. Although AFSCME Local 1761 (COLT) members have priority consideration, outside applications are accepted as well.
Regional Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
City
New Brunswick
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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