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Telecommunicator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Reports to Telecommunicator Supervisor. Essential Duties & Responsibilities The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them ...

Fire Communications Dispatcher

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

At minimum certified as a Public Safety Telecommunicator I & II or equivalent through an accredited program and be certified to Hazardous Material Awareness level. * Certification as Emergency ...

We're seeking a reporter who understands that meaningful public safety reporting is about finding solutions, not chasing mayhem. Forget traditional cops and courts reporting: this is connecting how ...

We're seeking a reporter who understands that meaningful public safety reporting is about finding solutions, not chasing mayhem. Forget traditional cops and courts reporting: this is connecting how ...

Telecommunicator information

See Tennessee salary details

$25K

$42.7K

$60.8K

How much do telecommunicator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for telecommunicator in Tennessee is $42,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,400.00 and $48,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are telecommunicators?

Telecommunicators, often known as emergency dispatchers or 911 operators, are professionals responsible for receiving and processing emergency and non-emergency calls. They gather essential information from callers, dispatch the appropriate emergency services, and provide critical instructions to help people remain safe until help arrives. Telecommunicators use specialized communication equipment and must remain calm under pressure to effectively coordinate responses between the public and first responders.

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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Telecommunicator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,690 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Telecommunicator

$50K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description PAY & BENEFITS: Pay begins at $50,019.24 annually for Telecommunicators and is dependent upon applicable experience. In addition to the base salary, this full-time position is eligible for an annual performance bonus and a longevity bonus. BENEFITS : Paid Holidays: 13 days Paid Time Off : 23 days (7.08 hours per pay period) Longevity Bonus: Based on Years of Service Merit Pay: Based on performance (Annual Salary increase and Bonus) Town Paid Benefits Include: Short and Long-Term Disability Employee Assistance Program Basic Life Insurance (1x Salary or $50k minimum, $10k spouse, & $5k child) Retirement Contribution & Match Education Reimbursement Free Wellness Programs and Free Gym Access Insurance Premium Costs (includes vision & dental) HSA: $20 single $110 family OAP: $25 single $150 family This classification receives and relays emergency and non-emergency requests for police, fire, and after hour utility services utilizing radio, telephone, and computer equipment

Duties and responsibilities include receiving and prioritizing emergency calls, dispatching appropriate law enforcement, emergency personnel, serving as liaison between callers and emergency responders; operating computers and communications equipment, preparing documentation, maintaining records, and performing additional tasks as assigned. Reports to Telecommunicator Supervisor. Essential Duties & Responsibilities The following duties are normal for this position.

The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Receives, screens, processes, and monitors emergency 911 calls and non-emergency calls from the public and other police/public safety agencies by radio and telephone; evaluates, categorizes, and prioritizes calls; determines proper zone/jurisdiction of request; refers callers to other agencies as appropriate; receives routine calls for the department and records messages for department personnel. Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, database, spreadsheet, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), or other software programs; performs basic maintenance of computer systems, communications equipment, and general office equipment; inspects equipment for proper operations; monitors equipment alarms to identify problems; performs daily backups of computer data; clears paper jams and replaces audio tapes, paper, ink or toner; coordinates service/repair activities as needed. Dispatches appropriate agency personnel to incident locations; determines nature of emergency, location of incident, number of units needed, and nearest available units; dispatches ambulances, fire fighters, animal control personnel or other agencies as appropriate.

Maintains communications with all parties involved in emergency situations; monitors status/location of officers and emergency units; assists emergency personnel in locating addresses; conveys information between callers and emergency personnel, general public, public safety agencies, hospitals, businesses, alarm companies, department personnel, or other individuals/agencies; responds to requests from officers for backup, emergency units, information, or other assistance. Maintains logs, computer records, and hard-copy records of calls, work activities, activities of dispatched units, and related information; enters call details into computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system; prepares complaint cards to record calls of a significant nature; maintains daily logs of shift events/activities; maintains current maps, bulletins, telephone lists, directories, procedures, and other reference materials; shreds/destroys sensitive documents as directed. Exchanges pertinent information with department personnel, other departments, and outside agencies; distributes incoming information/documentation to appropriate personnel; monitors incoming faxes and teletypes; provides information/documentation to other departments and outside agencies as requested.

Monitors radio traffic of other departments and other law enforcement, emergency, and non-emergency agencies to respond to radio calls and to maintain an awareness of activities. Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, logs, lists, or other documents. Records all information via computer, performs data entry functions by keying data into computer system; generates computerized reports and manual reports, forms and related documentation.

Monitors inventory of department forms and supplies; ensures availability of adequate materials to conduct work activities; initiates requests for new/replacement items as needed. Communicates effectively and coherently over radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications. Maintains confidentiality of departmental documentation and issues.

Maintains current knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; maintains an awareness of new procedures, trends, and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate. Responds to requests from law enforcement personnel or other authorized individuals for information involving license plates, driver's license records, criminal history records, warrants, missing/wanted persons, location of individuals, stolen property, telephone numbers, or other information; obtains/provides background information as requested by authorized personnel. Dispatches law enforcement units, and utility crews; maintains communications with utility crews, and wrecker services.

Notifies towing services, ambulance service, and other services as requested by personnel or public. Operates national or state criminal information computer systems (NCIC/TCIC) to retrieve/update criminal information and motor vehicle/license records; enters, removes, confirms, and/or updates various data; runs inquiries on data such as vehicle registrations, driver's license records, criminal histories, warrants, stolen property, or missing/wanted persons; receives BOLO notices and broadcasts/distributes as appropriate; maintains records of NCIC/TCIC validations; ensures integrity/security of data and adherence to NCIC/TCIC requirements. Monitors radio traffic of other departments and other law enforcement, emergency, and non-emergency agencies to respond to radio calls and to maintain an awareness of activities.

Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, logs, lists, NCIC/TCIC bulletins/reports, teletypes, criminal history reports, driver history reports, BOLO notices, validations, pawn shop slips, house checks, NCIC/TCIC guides, 911 guidelines, training materials, policies, procedures, local/jurisdictional maps, street guides, directories, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate. Minimum Qualifications Must be a U.S. Citizen Must have a High School Diploma or G.E.D

Must pass a thorough background check. Must never have been arrested or convicted of any crimes involving drugs, alcohol, or violence. Must be able to pass a physical and psychological exam administered by a licensed doctor.

Must be able to perform effectively through high-stress situations. Once hired, The employee will be required to maintain proficiency in emergency telecommunications through annual in-service training. Must become proficient (within the training period) with the policies and procedures of the Town of Smyrna and the Smyrna Police Dept.

Upon completing training, the employee will be assigned to either 2nd or 3rd shift depending on the needs of the department.