911 Dispatcher / Radio Communications Operator

State of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 64,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Minnesota is hiring for a 911 Dispatcher / Radio Communications Operator in Saint Paul. This role supports public safety agencies by processing emergency and non-emergency calls, prioritizing situations, and coordinating unit responses via CAD and radio systems.

Qualified applicants will have emergency communications experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in emergency communications or related field.
• Ability to gather, evaluate, and prioritize information for responses according to procedures.
• Effective telephone, radio, and agency communications under stress.
• Experience using multiple computer applications to manage information with competing priorities.
• Ability to stay calm, apply sound judgment, and make timely decisions.

Responsibilities

• Provide communications for agencies using the State Patrol Communications System and process emergency calls.
• Determine nature and location of emergencies and establish priorities using a CAD system.
• Maintain contact with units, monitor status and locations, and update information.
• Answer non-emergency calls and provide information as needed.
• Operate radio dispatch consoles, E911 devices, and computer systems 24/7.

Skills

Information gathering

Effective communication

Multitasking

Calm under pressure

Confidential data handling

Education

APCO/NENA/NAED certification

911 Telecommunications Certificate

Post-secondary certificate or degree

Tools

CAD System

Public safety radio frequencies

Radio dispatch consoles

E911 telephones

Job description

911 Dispatcher / Radio Communications Operator

• Working Title: 911 Dispatcher / RCO
• Job Class: Radio Communications Operator
• Agency: Public Safety Dept

• Job ID: 96901
• Location: St. Paul
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers and DPS employees eligible to bid.
• Date Posted: 09/11/2026
• Closing Date: 09/24/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Public Safety Dept / Public Safety-LELS
• Division/Unit: Central Office District 2000 / Capitol Security Comm Systems
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Rotating Shift
• Days of Work: Rotating
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $30.43 - $39.35 / hourly; $63,537 - $82,162 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 227 - LELS U17 Public Safety RCO/LELS

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

This posting may be used to fill multiple openings.

The anticipated start date for this training class will begin January 13, 2027.

To provide communications for all agencies which utilize the State Patrol Communications System to assist agencies in processing criminal information. Receive emergency calls from the public requesting police, fire, medical or other emergency services. Determines the nature and location of the emergency; determine priorities and using a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System. Maintains contact with all units on assignment, maintains status and location of all units. Answers non-emergency calls for assistance and information. Also enters and updates and retrieves information from a variety of computer systems and monitors several complex public safety radio frequencies (VHF/800Mhz). Operates a variety of communications equipment, including radio dispatch consoles, E911 telephones and computer systems in 24/7 facilities. Assists the public by obtaining information required pertaining to emergency and non-emergency situations.

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

One (1) year of experience in emergency communications, public safety dispatching, law enforcement support, emergency services, military communications, transportation operations, customer contact centers, or another position requiring independent judgment in a fast-paced operational environment.

• Ability to gather, evaluate, and prioritize information to determine the appropriate response using established policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public and partner agencies by telephone, radio, or other communication systems, including during stressful or emergency situations.
• Experience simultaneously using multiple computer applications to enter, retrieve, and update accurate information while managing competing priorities.
• Ability to remain calm, exercise sound judgment, and make timely decisions under pressure.
• Experience handling confidential or sensitive information while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification(s) from APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials International), NENA (National Emergency Number Association), or NAED (National Academies of Emergency Dispatch).
• One (1) year experience in dispatch for public safety or military entity or 911 Telecommunications Certificate or equivalent and six (6) months customer service experience or law enforcement experience.
• Experience as a full-time police officer.
• Post-secondary certificate or degree.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain calm during stressful situations.
• Movement to use several computer keyboards and mice.
• Ability to remain aware of surroundings while receiving information from telephone, radio, or person.
• Must stay at a workstation for long periods of time.
• VISION: Corrected to 20/40
• HEARING REQUIREMENTS: Must not have more than 35 DB loss in either ear when averaging the loss at 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 HZ
• Very Light: Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folders and small tools. May need to maintain a stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

• Criminal History Check
• Reference check
• Fingerprint check (MNJIS)
• Hearing and Vision assessmentsSEMA4 records, personnel file and employment records (current and former state employees only)

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

About Public Safety Dept

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.

For accommodations or questions about accessibility specifically relating to this job announcement, please email the Affcitative Action Division at [e-mail] or call 651-539-1875 (voice) or using your preferred telecommunications relay provider.