Police Dispatcher

Public Safety Dispatch Network; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Public Safety Dispatch Network is seeking a Police Dispatcher to handle emergency and nonemergency requests, document details, and coordinate with officers to ensure timely responses. The role requires clear radio communication, accurate typing, and the ability to learn jurisdictional geography.

Candidates may receive training, and background checks are typical. The position supports agency operations within Vestavia Hills, Alabama, with standard benefits and shift structures.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent; training may be provided for entry-level hires.
• Ability to type accurately, understand spoken information, and communicate clearly by radio.
• Access to criminal justice information systems may require additional screening and security training.

Responsibilities

• Receive emergency and nonemergency requests for police assistance.
• Document incident locations, suspect descriptions, vehicle details, and reported hazards.
• Assign calls to officers according to priority and agency procedures.
• Monitor officer status, radio traffic, and requests for assistance.
• Relay updates about changing incidents and potential safety concerns.
• Coordinate with neighboring agencies and other emergency services.
• Maintain clear incident records and safeguard restricted information.

Skills

Emergency dispatch

Multitasking

Radio communication

Data entry

Education

High school diploma

Tools

CJIS access

Job description

Position Details

Duty Location: {airport_name}, Vestavia Hills, AL

Employer: The hiring law enforcement or 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}

What You May Do

• Receive emergency and nonemergency requests for police assistance
• Document incident locations, suspect descriptions, vehicle details, and reported hazards
• Assign calls to available officers according to priority and agency procedures
• Monitor officer status, radio traffic, and requests for assistance
• Relay updates about changing incidents and potential safety concerns
• Conduct authorized records inquiries after completing required training
• Coordinate with neighboring agencies and other emergency services
• Maintain clear incident records and safeguard restricted information

Experience and Education Requirements

A high school diploma or recognized equivalent is commonly required. Entry-level vacancies may provide training, while experienced classifications may require prior police dispatch work and applicable certifications.

Candidates should be able to type accurately, understand spoken information, communicate clearly by radio, and learn jurisdictional geography. Access to criminal justice information systems may require additional screening and security training.

General Conditions of Employment

• Meet agency-specific age and employment eligibility requirements
• Successfully complete the required background investigation
• Pass applicable typing, listening, multitasking, or dispatch aptitude assessments
• Complete additional screening when required by the employer
• Maintain required dispatch and records-access qualifications
• Comply with confidentiality, security, and professional-conduct standards

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Police Dispatchers generally work at communications consoles using headsets, radios, keyboards, and multiple displays. The role requires sustained concentration and may involve calls concerning violence, threats, or traumatic events. Consult the vacancy for essential functions and accommodation information.

Benefits

• medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans; paid leave; employee-assistance resources; and continuing education.
• Premium pay and other provisions vary by agency and employment agreement.