911 Dispatcher: Calm, Critical-Care Calls & Dispatch

Emergency Telecommunicator Services; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement benefits

Paid leave

Employee assistance services

Professional training

Shift differentials

Overtime pay

Job summary

Emergency Telecommunicator Services in the United States seeks a 911 dispatcher to connect callers with public safety resources. You will handle emergency and nonemergency calls, verify details, and coordinate responders per agency procedures.

The role requires calm communication, attention to change, and strict information handling. Shifts may include overnights, weekends, holidays, and overtime per staffing needs.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or recognized equivalency credential is commonly required.
• Some agencies recruit entry-level applicants, while others require previous emergency communications experience or current certifications.
• Useful skills include accurate typing, active listening, clear speech, basic computer proficiency, and the ability to organize information under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Answer emergency and nonemergency calls within the assigned service area.
• Confirm addresses, callback numbers, incident details, and immediate safety concerns.
• Assess call priority using approved questions and agency procedures.
• Enter incident information into computer-aided dispatch systems.
• Dispatch appropriate responders when assigned to radio operations.
• Monitor radio traffic and update responding personnel as circumstances change.
• Provide approved caller instructions within the limits of training and certification.
• Maintain accurate records and protect confidential information.

Skills

Typing speed

Active listening

Clear speech

Basic computer skills

Information organization under stress

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Emergency Telecommunicator Services in the United States seeks a 911 dispatcher to connect callers with public safety resources. You will handle emergency and nonemergency calls, verify details, and coordinate responders per agency procedures.

The role requires calm communication, attention to change, and strict information handling. Shifts may include overnights, weekends, holidays, and overtime per staffing needs.