911 Dispatcher — Calm, Critical-Response Operator

Emergency Telecommunicator Services; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement benefits

Paid leave

Job summary

Emergency Telecommunicator Services in Richmond, VA seeks an 911 Emergency Dispatcher to connect callers with police, fire, or EMS and coordinate responders. The role requires calm communication, accurate information gathering, and efficient use of multiple dispatch systems.

Responsibilities include answering calls, confirming locations, assessing priority, and documenting incident details. Employees may work extended shifts and overtime as needed in a fast-paced public safety environment.

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.

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

Active listening

Clear speech

Basic computer proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CAD systems

Job description

Emergency Telecommunicator Services in Richmond, VA seeks an 911 Emergency Dispatcher to connect callers with police, fire, or EMS and coordinate responders. The role requires calm communication, accurate information gathering, and efficient use of multiple dispatch systems.

Responsibilities include answering calls, confirming locations, assessing priority, and documenting incident details. Employees may work extended shifts and overtime as needed in a fast-paced public safety environment.