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Telecommunicator Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

Telecommunications Officer

Plano, TX ยท On-site

$50K - $57K/yr

... telecommunicator Operates computers, telephones, radios, recorders, and other technical equipment Adheres to personnel safety, departmental policies and procedures, and Administrative Orders Typical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Telecommunicator information

See Dallas, TX salary details

$27.3K

$46.7K

$66.6K

How much do telecommunicator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for telecommunicator in Dallas, TX is $46,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,700.00 and $52,700.00 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.

What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Telecommunicator jobs?

Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Telecommunicator job openings:

Infographic showing various Telecommunicator job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,727 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator I or II

City of Sachse, TX

Sachse, TX โ€ข On-site

$53K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary : $53,414.40 - $81,931.20 Annually
Location : Sachse, TX
Job Type: FULL-TIME
Job Number: 1000472
Department: POLICE
Opening Date: 05/28/2026
Description
Candidate's starting salary will be between $25.68/hr. - $39.39/hr.
Hiring range for Public Safety Telecommunicator I: $25.68 - $33.38/hr.
Hiring range for Public Safety Telecommunicator II: $28.13 - $39.39/hr.
Bi-Lingual Pay
Hiring Incentive
TCOLE Telecommunicator Certified $5,000
Noncertified Applicants $ 3,000
The schedule for this position requires the ability to work 12 hour shifts which include nights, weekends, and holidays.
Under supervision of the Public Safety Telecommunications Manager, the Public Safety Telecommunicator receives, prioritizes, and processes emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and medical services. This position dispatches appropriate personnel, provides critical information to responders, and ensures effective communication with callers to protect life, property, and public safety.
The Public Safety Telecommunicator supports operational readiness, accurate recordkeeping, and the overall efficiency of the Emergency Communications Center. This position works closely with public safety personnel, other City departments, and partner agencies to coordinate timely and effective emergency response.
The ideal candidate will embody the City's core values of Service, Humility, Innovation, Neighborly, and Excellence (SHINE).
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Call Processing and Dispatch Operations: Receives emergency and non-emergency calls for service by telephone or radio. Prioritizes calls, determines the appropriate response, and dispatches police, fire, medical personnel, or other personnel as needed in a timely and efficient manner using radios, telephones, and other communication tools. Provides detailed information to responders and monitors unit status to maintain situational awareness.
Interagency Coordination: Contacts neighboring law enforcement and emergency service agencies as necessary to request assistance or relay critical incident information. Sends and receives teletypes to coordinate warrants, protective orders, and other law enforcement communications.
Records Management and Documentation: Enters incident, call, and case information into the records management system accurately and timely. Prepares reports, maintains logs, and ensures compliance with department, state, and federal reporting requirements. Performs inquiries, criminal history checks, and manages entries for stolen property, missing or wanted persons, and protective orders.
Customer Service and Public Interaction: Communicates professionally with citizens, including obtaining information from distressed or emotional callers. Accepts payments for alarm permits, animal registrations, and prisoner releases, issuing receipts as appropriate.
Licensing, Compliance, and Training: Completes required training, continuing education, and semi-annual evaluations to maintain Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (TCOLE) certification. Follows all policies, procedures, and legal requirements governing public safety communications.
Emergency Response Support: Provides operational support during major incidents, disasters, or high-priority situations. Coordinates with command staff and respondersto ensure effective communication and incident management.
Other Duties: Performs other related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Emergency Communications Operations: Knowledge of emergency communications principles, dispatch procedures, and public safety operations. Skill in operating radio, telephone, and dispatch equipment to support effective response.
Technology and Records Systems: Knowledge of computers, related hardware, and software. Skill in entering, retrieving, and maintaining accurate and complete data.
Public Safety Knowledge: Ability to learn police, fire, and EMS operations; and City geography and coordinating response across multiple public safety disciplines.
Operational Skills and Decision-Making: Ability to prioritize and process multiple calls for service under high-stress conditions. Skill in obtaining critical information from callers and making accurate, timely dispatch decisions.
Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness: Exceptional oral and written communication skills. Ability to interact professionally, respectfully, and calmly with citizens, coworkers, and partner agencies.
Other Skills: Typing proficiency of at least 32 words per minute. Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations and exercise sound judgment in emergency circumstances.
Typical Qualifications
Required Education, Experience, and Certifications:
โ€ข High School diploma or equivalent, and one (1) year dispatch experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
โ€ข Must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug screening and Criticall test.
โ€ข Requires Basic Telecommunicators Certification through TCOLE within one (1) year of hire. Candidates with current TCOLE Telecommunicators License are preferred.
โ€ข May be required to acquire additional certification.
Public Safety Telecommunicator I
Minimum Requirements:
  • 0-4 years of experience as a public safety dispatcher
  • TCOLE Basic or Intermediate Telecommunicator License

Public Safety Telecommunicator II
Minimum Requirements:
  • 5+ years of experience as a public safety dispatcher
  • TCOLE Advanced or Masters Telecommunicator License

01
I understand that I am required to complete all sections of this application thoroughly and that I may not attach a resume in lieu of completing this application. I also understand that my application will be rejected if it is incomplete.
  • Yes
  • No

02
What is your highest level of education completed that resulted in a diploma or degree?
  • Less than High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or Higher

03
I acknowledge that this position is required to work during emergency situations and is required to work a varying work schedule requiring evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.
  • YES
  • NO

04
Do you possess a TCOLE (formerly TCLEOSE) Telecommunicators license from the State of Texas?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question