911 Dispatcher: Calm, Critical-Response Operator

County Emergency Communications; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement benefits

Paid leave

Employee assistance services

Professional training

Job summary

County Emergency Communications in Alexandria seeks 911 Emergency Dispatchers to connect callers with responders, gather essential information, and coordinate police, fire, or EMS resources according to agency procedures.

Dispachers must remain calm under pressure, confirm incident locations, and relay accurate information while managing multiple communication systems. Training and agency certifications determine testing scores and deadlines.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or recognized equivalency credential 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

Accurate typing

Active listening

Clear speech

Basic computer skills

Organizing information under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

County Emergency Communications in Alexandria seeks 911 Emergency Dispatchers to connect callers with responders, gather essential information, and coordinate police, fire, or EMS resources according to agency procedures.

Dispachers must remain calm under pressure, confirm incident locations, and relay accurate information while managing multiple communication systems. Training and agency certifications determine testing scores and deadlines.