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Telephone Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of San Francisco

Dispatcher

Hilltop, MN

A Dispatcher follows a leadership model that practices values based and community policing ... Basic principles in communicating by means of telephone and/or face to face contact. Skill/Ability ...

University of Utah

Dispatcher

Campus, IL

$18/hr

Assists public via telephone and in-person to assess situations and problems. Determines ... Problem Solving Dispatchers are responsible for questioning callers to obtain sufficient ...

University of Utah

Dispatcher

Salt Lake City, UT

$18/hr

Assists public via telephone and in-person to assess situations and problems. Determines ... Problem Solving Dispatchers are responsible for questioning callers to obtain sufficient ...

City of Hanford

Communications Dispatcher

Hanford, CA

$57K - $70K/yr

Lateral Communications Dispatcher Recruitment Incentives: 1. Signing Bonus: A one-time signing ... Receive incoming telephone and radio requests for emergency and routine services. Question ...

University of Utah

Dispatcher

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$18/hr

Assists public via telephone and in-person to assess situations and problems. Determines ... Problem Solving Dispatchers are responsible for questioning callers to obtain sufficient ...

University of Utah

Dispatcher

Campus, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Assists public via telephone and in-person to assess situations and problems. Determines ... Problem Solving Dispatchers are responsible for questioning callers to obtain sufficient ...

City of Concord

Police Dispatcher II - Lateral

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

This is the journey-level position which performs the full range of radio and telephone dispatch duties with a high degree of independence. The Police Dispatcher II performs activities related to the ...

Ambi-Trans, Inc.

Dispatcher

Punta Gorda, FL · On-site

$17/hr

This process is often handled over the telephone and other electronic means of communications ... dispatch appropriate vehicle * Data entry of information into industry specific software

Village Plumbing and Air

DISPATCHER

Houston, TX · On-site

Duties may include using telephone, or computer to transmit information and reports on work progress. The critical element to proper dispatching is getting the "right" technician to each specific job.

CityNet

Dispatcher

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$21.89 - $23.89/hr

... telephone emergency dispatch, information and referral, crisis/warmline, etc. • Experience interacting with people affected by homelessness, substance use disorders, chronic health and mental ...

Oberlin, City of (OH)

Part-Time Dispatcher

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$26.11 - $30.64/hr

Answer all incoming calls on the police telephone (emergency and non-emergency); determine priority and dispatch units.* Operate the police base radio and control panels. Dispatch police officers to ...

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Telephone Dispatcher information

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How much do telephone dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for telephone 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 a telephone dispatcher?

Telephone Dispatchers are professionals responsible for receiving and handling emergency and non-emergency calls, typically for police, fire, or ambulance services. They gather crucial information from callers, assess the situation, and coordinate the appropriate response by dispatching emergency personnel and resources. In addition to relaying information quickly and accurately, they may also provide instructions to callers and maintain communication with field units. This role requires strong communication skills, the ability to stay calm under pressure, and proficiency with specialized communication systems.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a telephone dispatcher?

To thrive as a Telephone Dispatcher, you need excellent verbal communication, multitasking abilities, and strong attention to detail, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio equipment, and emergency response protocols is essential. Calmness under pressure, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain composed during stressful situations set top performers apart. These skills ensure accurate information relay and effective coordination, which are crucial for public safety and timely emergency response.

What are common challenges telephone dispatchers face, and how can they overcome them?

Telephone Dispatchers often deal with high-pressure situations, such as managing multiple emergency calls at once or coordinating timely responses with field units. Staying calm under pressure and using prioritization skills are crucial to ensure the right resources are dispatched efficiently. Clear communication and familiarity with dispatch software also help minimize errors. Many organizations provide ongoing training and peer support to help dispatchers develop these abilities and manage job-related stress effectively.

What is the difference between Telephone Dispatcher vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectTelephone DispatcherCustomer Service Representative
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; sometimes certifications in dispatch or communicationHigh school diploma; customer service training often preferred
Work EnvironmentCall centers, transportation hubs, emergency servicesRetail, call centers, corporate offices
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation, emergency services, logisticsRetail, tech, healthcare, finance
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for communication skills and multitaskingCompared for customer interaction and problem-solving skills

The main difference between a Telephone Dispatcher and a Customer Service Representative lies in their work focus. Dispatchers primarily coordinate transportation or emergency responses, requiring specific communication skills and sometimes certifications. Customer Service Representatives handle client inquiries across various industries, focusing on customer satisfaction. Both roles involve communication and call handling but serve different operational needs.

How do you become a telephone dispatcher?

To become a telephone dispatcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Strong communication skills, the ability to multitask, and familiarity with radio or phone systems are important; some positions may require background checks or specific certifications depending on the industry.

Is it hard to get hired as a telephone dispatcher?

Getting hired as a telephone dispatcher can vary depending on the employer and location, but generally requires good communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and sometimes a background check or certification. Entry-level positions are often available, and previous experience in customer service or emergency response can improve chances of employment.

What disqualifies you from being a telephone dispatcher?

Disqualifications for a telephone dispatcher typically include a criminal record, poor communication skills, inability to pass background checks or drug tests, and a lack of necessary certifications or a valid driver's license if required. Additionally, candidates must often demonstrate good judgment, multitasking ability, and the capacity to work under stress; failure in these areas can be grounds for disqualification.
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What cities are hiring for Telephone Dispatcher jobs?

Cities with the most Telephone Dispatcher job openings:

What states have the most Telephone Dispatcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Telephone Dispatcher jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Telephone Dispatcher jobs?

For Telephone Dispatcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Telephone Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telephone Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.

Dispatcher

San Francisco, CA • On-site

The University of San Francisco
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about The University of San Franciscoexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

University Of San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title:
Dispatcher
Job Summary:
A Dispatcher follows a leadership model that practices values based and community policing principles when responding to the needs of the community. In following this model, a Dispatcher practices leadership that is collaborative, creative, adaptive, based on influence, is multi-directional, and non-coercive. A Dispatcher provides services with the understanding that leaders, followers, and participants develop a common purpose to achieve mutual goals.
A Dispatcher is responsible for maintaining effective and efficient communications between the campus law enforcement headquarters, campus patrol officers in the field, outside emergency and law enforcement agencies and the public by receiving, recording, and dispatching general and emergency information quickly, clearly and accurately. A dispatcher is required to work independently, react quickly, and demonstrate good judgment and discretion in stressful situations. The Communications Center is operated 24 hours a day and a dispatcher may be required to work various shifts any day of the week including holidays.
As part of the larger staff in Student Life, Public Safety employees collaborate and cooperate across divisions and departments to create a supportive University community which encourages student learning and development in the Jesuit Catholic tradition. The mission of Student Life is to fully support holistic student development within a social justice framework centered in preparing students to be caring, socially responsible citizens in our global and local community.
Full Job Description:
Examples of essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Receives emergency and non-emergency calls and efficiently gathers, evaluates, prioritizes, and documents information from callers.
  • Dispatches Officer and CSO field units to specific locations using a two-way radio while documenting all actions in the computer-aided dispatch system.
  • Evaluates incoming reports of police, fire, and medical emergencies; immediately transmits complete and accurate information to appropriate field personnel and coordinates with SF DEM for Fire/EMS response.
  • Receives requests for emergency and non-emergency services and liaisons with other USF departments as needed.
  • Monitors, coordinates, and accurately maintains the status of incidents and records of dispatched personnel.
  • Maintains familiarity with area geography including major streets and campus buildings.
  • Maintains understanding of current public safety policies and procedures for the USF Department of Public Safety.
  • Responds to routine and non-routine inquiries regarding public safety; properly classifies and prioritizes any report or complaint and determines appropriate course of action; provides appropriate referrals as necessary.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, empathy, and excellent customer service.
  • Works various 8-hour or 12-hour shifts, or longer, including day shift, swing shift, night shift, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Education:
  • High School Diploma required; college degree preferred.

Knowledge:
  • English language, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  • Customer service and interpersonal communications principles.
  • Computer operation and use in office and Communications Center environments.
  • Basic principles in communicating by means of telephone and/or face to face contact.

Skill/Ability to:
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, in English, both orally and in writing.
  • Comprehend, interpret, relay and document information via telephone, computer software or other related technology.
  • Screen and interpret general data and filter relevant information.
  • Effectively communicate with and elicit information from upset and irate community members.
  • Learn and operate Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Systems and other related technology.
  • Work under pressure, exercising good judgment and common sense while making sound decisions in emergency situations.
  • Perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Listen, understand and relay information via telephone and in person.
  • Remain calm and controlled under stressful periods while projecting a professional demeanor.
  • Exercise independent judgment and work with a minimum of supervision.
  • Establish and maintain positive and courteous working relationships with customers, the community and co-workers.
  • Work with the Communications Center team while maintaining assigned job responsibilities and duties.
  • Anticipate and adapt to fluctuating workloads in the Communications Center.
  • Communicate and receive constructive feedback and opinions to affect change.
  • Access and refer to information using available resources.
  • Read, interpret, understand and follow written and oral instructions and/or information.

Other requirements of the position:
  • Possess good moral character and psychological suitability as determined by a thorough lawful background check, obtaining and submitting a BSIS guard card which includes fingerprinting, and a psychological evaluation.
  • Be willing to work day, swing, graveyard, rotating, holiday, and weekend shifts.
  • Be willing to work 12 to 16 hours per day.
  • Be willing to accept overtime assignments, including last minute spontaneous mandatory assignments.
  • Successful completion of P.O.S.T. Dispatcher course should be completed within one year of appointment. (paid by USF)

Selection Process:
  • Apply Online
  • Communications Center Sit Along / Patrol Ride Along
  • Panel Interview
  • Submit Personal History Statement (PHS)
  • Obtain/Submit BSIS Guard Card
  • Lawful Background Check (must be free of felonies and/or violent misdemeanors)
  • Psychological Examination

Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full time
Pay Rate:
Hourly
Salary Range :
$32.26/hour

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