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Teletype Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Police Dispatcher I

Fontana, CA · On-site

$5.2K - $6.3K/mo

Employees are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in ... Teletype System (NLETS)/National Crime Information Center (NCIC), etc. * Learn departmental ...

Police Dispatcher I

Fontana, CA · On-site

$5.2K - $6.3K/mo

... teletype communications. POSITION SNAPSHOT: The Fontana Police Dispatcher is a non-uniformed ... Employees are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in ...

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Teletype Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$23

$43

How much do teletype operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for teletype operator in California is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a teletype operator?

Teletype Operators are professionals who operate teletype machines, which are electromechanical typewriters used for sending and receiving typed messages over telecommunication lines. Their primary responsibilities include typing messages accurately, transmitting and receiving communications, and ensuring the correct routing of messages. Teletype Operators were crucial in various industries, particularly in news agencies, military communications, and transportation before the advent of modern digital communication systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a teletype operator?

To excel as a Teletype Operator, you need strong typing accuracy, attention to detail, and basic literacy, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with teletype machines, telecommunication systems, and possibly basic computer skills is necessary. Reliability, good communication, and the ability to work under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate and timely transmission of messages, which is critical for efficient information flow in settings like newsrooms or military operations.

What are some common challenges faced by teletype operators in a modern workplace?

Teletype Operators often encounter challenges related to maintaining accuracy and speed under tight deadlines, especially when handling high volumes of incoming and outgoing messages. Additionally, adapting to updated communication technologies and integrating traditional teletype equipment with digital systems can require ongoing training and flexibility. Collaboration with other departments, such as technical support and management, is essential to ensure smooth information flow and troubleshoot any equipment issues promptly. Staying organized and attentive to detail is crucial to prevent errors and ensure clear, reliable communication.

What is the difference between Teletype Operator vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectTeletype OperatorData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic typing skillsHigh school diploma, proficiency in data management software
Work EnvironmentTelecommunications or office setting, operating teletype machinesOffice environment, inputting data into computer systems
Industry UsageTelecommunications, news agencies, governmentBusiness, healthcare, finance sectors
Common Search/ComparisonTeletype Operator vs Data Entry Clerk

The Teletype Operator primarily operated teletype machines for transmitting written messages, often in telecommunications or news agencies. In contrast, Data Entry Clerks focus on inputting and managing data within computer systems across various industries. While both roles require typing skills and attention to detail, the Teletype Operator's work is more hardware-focused, whereas Data Entry Clerks work mainly with digital data. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in related fields.

What are popular job titles related to Teletype Operator jobs in California?

For Teletype Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Teletype Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Teletype Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Teletype Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Teletype Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Teletype Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,846 per year, or $23 per hour.

Dispatcher II LATERAL **Hiring Incentive**

Sonora, CA • On-site

$25.01 - $30.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Receives and evaluates emergency and non-emergency calls to determine the nature of the situation.

  • Dispatches and coordinates law enforcement, medical, fire, and other emergency response units according to department procedures.

  • Operates dispatch center equipment, monitors calls, maintains records, and updates or retrieves information from databases.


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description LATERAL OPPORTUNITY Hiring Incentive - paid in first paycheck $4,000 Personal Leave credit in first paycheck 80 hours Upon completion of probationary period and meets expectations on performance evaluation $3,000 Upon completion of 3 years and meets expectations on performance evaluation $3,000 Upon completion of 4 years and meets expectations on performance evaluation $5,000 Upon completion of 5 years and meets expectations on performance evaluation $5,000 TOTAL $20,000 Under direct or general supervision, receives and evaluates emergency and non-emergency calls; elicits information to determine nature of emergency; dispatches and coordinates law enforcement, medical, fire and other emergency response units in accordance with department procedures; operates various dispatch center equipment; maintains records; performs related work as assigned. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives direct or general supervision from the Lead Dispatcher. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS Sheriff's Dispatcher II: This is the fully-qualified, working-level class in this series. Incumbents have increased responsibility and latitude when performing the full range of technical communications support and information processing duties including recieving, evaluating, and dispatching law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire suppression, and related public safety class in emergency and non-emergency situations. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative.

Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from Sheriff's Dispatch Shift Supervisor in that the latter is the full supervisory-level class in the series responsible for organizing, assigning, supervising, and reviewing the work of staff on an assigned shift involved in dispatch services. Positions in the Sheriff's Dispatcher class series are flexibly staffed after completing the prescribed training program and obtaining the Emergency Dispatch Medical Certificate.

Positions in the II level are normally filled by advancement from the I level requiring two (2) years of experience and after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have two (2) years of prior related experience that allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the II level and possession of the Emergency Dispatch Medical Certificate. Examples of Duties (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Receives and evaluates emergency calls; obtains information about the nature of the emergency and other required data, assesses urgency and scale, prioritizes calls for service, and determines appropriate unit/location/number of personnel or units required. Dispatches law enforcement, medical, fire and other emergency response units in accordance with established procedures and policies using a computerized dispatch system, including determining priority of emergency and contacting and sending appropriate response unit. Monitors calls and maintains contact after initial dispatch to provide additional coordination, support, or information, including accounting for location and status of units and maintaining records of field calls; sends back-up units, as necessary, ensuring the safety of field units;.

Operates computer, telephone, and radio console and telecommunication equipment simultaneously while performing dispatching activities; tests and inspects equipment as assigned. Monitors and controls radio traffic, alerts other agencies, and coordinates mutual response radio traffic. Logs call data including time of dispatch, arrival, clearance, and related information in a written or automated format; assigns case numbers.

Accesses federal, state, and local law enforcement information databases to obtain information and relays such information to units. Enters, updates, and retrieves a variety of records from teletype database and computer systems, including warrants, repossessions, towed or stored vehicles, temporary restraining orders, emergency protective orders, and other information; locates and abstracts warrants. Acts as a liaison to the public and representatives of other agencies for the department; receives and evaluates non-emergency calls; determines the nature of the contact; provides factual information regarding services, policies, and procedures, which requires a knowledge of legal guidelines, departmental policies and procedures, and the use of tact and discretion, and/or transfers calls to the appropriate department, agency, or response organization.

Changes dispatch center recording tapes and assists in other monitoring and operator upkeep of equipment. Maintains accurate departmental and law enforcement records and files; researches and compiles information from such files. Attends necessary training and shift briefing sessions; participates in drills and test scenarios to prepare for unexpected emergencies.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Knowledge of: Basic functions of law enforcement agencies. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.

Basic principles of record keeping. English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation. Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.

Ability to: Assess and prioritize emergency situations while remaining calm and using sound judgment. Obtain necessary information from individuals in stressful or emergency situations. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software programs.

Learn terminology, codes, and procedures used in public safety dispatching. Learn and operate computer-aided communications equipment, including multiple telephone, radio, and teletype systems and law enforcement computer system terminals. Learn County geography, maps, streets, landmarks, and driving directions.

Learn, interpret, apply, and explain federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility. Memorize codes, names, street locations, and other information. Follow oral and written instructions.

Attend to multiple activities simultaneously. Organize, maintain, and update office database and records systems. Perform accurate data entry and word processing at a minimum net rate of 30 words per minute.

Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical deadlines. Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing. Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and legal guidelines in politically sensitive situations.

Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Sheriff's Dispatcher II, in addition to the above: Independently perform the full range of technical communications support and information processing duties including receiving, evaluating, prioritizing, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls. Read and interpret maps and other pertinent documentation.

Functions, authorities, and practices of public safety and emergency response agencies. Terminology, protocols, and procedures used in public safety dispatching. Operation of computer-aided communications equipment, including multiple telephone, radio, and teletype systems.

Operation of law enforcement computer system terminals. County geography, maps, streets, landmarks, and driving directions. Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.

Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade and two (2) years of experience as a Law Enforcement Dispatcher and possession of the Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certificate or one (1) year of experience as Sheriff's Dispatcher I with Tuolumne County and possession of the Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certificate. Licenses and Certifications: Ability to obtain the Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certificate.

Completion of P.O.S.T. Basic Dispatcher course.


What County Of San Luis Obispo employees say

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