Become a Dispatcher and Send Help Where it is Needed

If you are interested in jobs in criminal justice that make a real difference, and you want to get started right after high school, consider becoming a dispatcher. During an emergency, the voice of a 911 dispatcher is often the first source of relief and comfort for people in danger. A dispatcher provides a vital link between those in need of help, and those who can provide it. Public safety dispatchers help people in need of:

Public safety dispatchers, also referred to as a 911 operators, hold true law enforcement jobs, getting police and other needed services out to accidents, crime scenes and fires.

Dispatchers keep track of all emergency services personnel so that they can dispatch units as needed in response to each unique situation. Dispatchers may work in varied settings including:

When taking calls, dispatchers must remain calm and listen carefully to people who may be panicking or not expressing themselves clearly. They then determine what type of situation is taking place, the location of the problem, how serious the problem is and what services are needed. Dispatchers must then make quick decisions about the kind and number of units that are needed and the closest location of available units. Dispatchers stay in contact with both the service units and the callers in distress. Often they are trained to give first aid instructions to callers until professional services arrive. No matter how frightened or even abusive callers may be, dispatchers must stay objective and in control.

 

Dispatchers sit for long periods of time, and keep detailed records of all communications activity. Most work a 40 hour week, with rotating shifts. Since they provide emergency services, shifts may involve any hours including holidays, nights and weekends. Work environment can be hectic and even stressful when many calls come in at once.

Recent median earnings for public safety dispatchers are $31,470. The lowest 10 percent earned under $20,010, while the highest 10 percent earned over $47,190. Those in the middle 50 percent earned between $25,200 and $39,040.

As one of the careers in criminal justice that can begin right after high school, dispatchers learn necessary skills on the job. Informal on the job training can last up to a few months, depending on how difficult and complex the responsibilities of the job. Public safety dispatchers often undergo formal training programs through their employers including the study of:

In addition to on-the-job-training, many states require specific training or a certificate from a professional association. Candidates may also be given qualifying oral, practical or written tests. To qualify for advancement, they may need to attend additional training classes.

 

Dispatchers must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to work under pressure. Many public safely dispatchers are required to live in the city or county where they are employed.

Public safety dispatchers have many opportunities for advancement. Some move to an administrative law enforcement job with a higher salary. Others rise to management positions such as chief of communications or divisional supervisor. Another advancement path for dispatchers is to become fire fighters or police officers.

For more information about dispatcher careers and becoming a dispatcher, you may want to contact: