911 Call Taker

Public Safety Dispatch Network; Cabin John (MD); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Public Safety Dispatch Network in Cabin John, MD is seeking a 911 dispatcher to handle incoming calls, verify locations, and relay crucial information to responders. The role requires precise data entry and proficient use of dispatch software to ensure timely responses.

Applicants should follow structured protocols, demonstrate strong listening and typing skills, and be prepared for rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and overtime as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is commonly required.
• Strong listening and typing skills essential.
• Ability to follow structured procedures and work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Answer incoming emergency calls and assigned nonemergency lines
• Confirm incident location and caller’s callback information
• Use approved questions to identify the nature and urgency of the situation
• Enter accurate details into call-processing or dispatch software
• Forward incident information promptly to the appropriate dispatch function
• Help distressed callers focus on essential questions and instructions
• Use language-access resources when needed
• Provide authorized pre-arrival instructions only within training and certification

Skills

Active listening

Accurate typing

Clear verbal communication

Procedural compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Call-processing software

Dispatch software

Job description

Position Details

• Duty Location: {airport_name}, Cabin John, MD
• Employer: The hiring emergency communications agency identified in the official vacancy
• Pay: {salary_min}–{salary_max} per year
• Schedule: {work_schedule}
• Appointment Type: {appointment_type}
• Who May Apply: {who_may_apply}
• Application Deadline: {closing_date}

911 call-taking services commonly operate 24 hours a day. Depending on staffing needs, employees may work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.

What You May Do

• Answer incoming emergency calls and assigned nonemergency lines
• Confirm the incident location and caller’s callback information
• Use approved questions to identify the nature and urgency of the situation
• Enter accurate details into call-processing or dispatch software
• Forward incident information promptly to the appropriate dispatch function
• Help distressed callers focus on essential questions and instructions
• Use approved language-access and accessibility resources when needed
• Provide authorized pre-arrival instructions only within training and certification

Experience and Education Requirements

Employers commonly require a high school diploma or recognized equivalent. Previous customer service, telephone support, or public safety experience may be helpful, although some vacancies accept applicants without dispatch experience.

Successful candidates need strong listening comprehension, accurate typing, clear verbal communication, and the ability to follow structured procedures. Required assessments and minimum scores are determined by the hiring agency.

General Conditions of Employment

• Meet agency-specific employment eligibility and age requirements
• Complete required background checks and hiring assessments
• Complete additional screening identified in the announcement