911 Call Taker

Public Safety Dispatch Network; Covesville (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Public Safety Dispatch Network is seeking 911 call takers to handle emergency and nonemergency lines, verify locations, and collect caller information. The role requires listening skills, accurate typing, and clear communication while following standard procedures.

Employees may work rotating shifts in a 24-hour operation, with background checks and mandatory certifications. The position emphasizes data accuracy, calm communication, and proper use of dispatch software to relay critical

Qualifications

• Strong listening comprehension and clear verbal communication are essential.
• Accurate typing skills are needed to document information quickly.
• Ability to follow structured procedures and work with dispatch software.

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Listening comprehension

Typing accuracy

Verbal communication

Education

High school diploma or recognized equivalent

Job description

911 Call Takers are often the first people to speak with someone reporting an emergency. They ask focused questions, confirm where help is needed, and document information for the personnel responsible for coordinating the response.

In some communications centers, call taking is a separate assignment from radio dispatch. In others, employees train for both functions. The official vacancy explains the duties included in this position.

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

• Duty Location: {airport_name}, Covesville, VA
• 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}

• 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

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.

• Meet agency‑specific employment eligibility and age requirements
• Complete required background checks and hiring assessments
• Complete additional screening identified in the announcement
• Successfully complete call‑taking training and performance evaluations
• Obtain applicable certifications within the required timeframe
• Protect caller privacy and confidential incident information

Call Takers spend substantial time using telephone headsets, keyboards, and computer displays. The work may involve repeated exposure to callers experiencing fear, injury, or loss. Review the official vacancy for essential functions, scheduling expectations, and available accommodations.

Benefits for eligible employees may include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, employee‑assistance programs, and continuing training. Availability depends on the employer, appointment type, and work schedule.