3 answers
Nena
Student
Federal Way, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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hi, my name is Nena and I'm in job corps and was wondering what steps I need to take to become a 911 dispatcher and the pay for it and the qualifications I'll get for it or need. ?
If you could let me know fun facts about my field too I would love to know more
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3 answers
Katherine Jensen
Emergency Medical Technician
3
Answers
Orem, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi Nena! 911 dispatcher is a great career path! I'm not a dispatcher myself but they sure are some of my favorite people. Dispatchers truly are the unsung heroes of the 911 system.
First of all, the requirements will differ by state. You may have to do Indvidual research into the requirements in your area! Here in Utah, dispatchers have to be trained and certified before ever picking up a call. Training usually takes ~6-8 months. I've heard it described as a "super semester". It's a lot of work but a very rewarding course. There you will learn all the ins and outs of 911. Dispatchers need to know what qualifies as a medical emergency, when does someone need backup, pass along vital information to other first responders, and so much more. Should you send an ambulance lights and sirens or not? How many police officers do you need on a scene? These are all questions you learned to answer as your working to get certified as a dispatcher. You will need to know every resource your area has available and when to send them out. There are a lot of pamphlets online that break down a 911 response by dispatchers that are pretty cool to look at. I will link some resources down below that you can take a look at.
The pay of a dispatcher can also vary by state and area. Most are salaried employees, but it can vary by agency. Public servants are famously underpaid so be prepared for that.
Lastly, being a dispatcher can be a tough job. You are talking to people on what is often the hardest day of their lives; that can take a huge toll on one's mental health. The best advice I can give you is to go into it ready to rely on your community and your coworkers for support. It's a hard job but it's also super rewarding. Good luck on your journey!
https://impactdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Welcome-to-Dispatch-Packet-1.pdf
First of all, the requirements will differ by state. You may have to do Indvidual research into the requirements in your area! Here in Utah, dispatchers have to be trained and certified before ever picking up a call. Training usually takes ~6-8 months. I've heard it described as a "super semester". It's a lot of work but a very rewarding course. There you will learn all the ins and outs of 911. Dispatchers need to know what qualifies as a medical emergency, when does someone need backup, pass along vital information to other first responders, and so much more. Should you send an ambulance lights and sirens or not? How many police officers do you need on a scene? These are all questions you learned to answer as your working to get certified as a dispatcher. You will need to know every resource your area has available and when to send them out. There are a lot of pamphlets online that break down a 911 response by dispatchers that are pretty cool to look at. I will link some resources down below that you can take a look at.
The pay of a dispatcher can also vary by state and area. Most are salaried employees, but it can vary by agency. Public servants are famously underpaid so be prepared for that.
Lastly, being a dispatcher can be a tough job. You are talking to people on what is often the hardest day of their lives; that can take a huge toll on one's mental health. The best advice I can give you is to go into it ready to rely on your community and your coworkers for support. It's a hard job but it's also super rewarding. Good luck on your journey!
https://impactdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Welcome-to-Dispatch-Packet-1.pdf
Heather Branham
Remote-Patient Service Access Agent
11
Answers
Aurora, Ohio
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Hello Nena,
Indeed, there are various college courses available that can equip you with the necessary skills to become a 911 dispatcher. However, the majority of the training is usually conducted by local fire or police departments. These departments typically have a thorough testing and screening process, but don't worry, the training you'll receive on the job can pave the way to a rewarding career! To give you an idea, in Northeast Ohio where I live, the starting hourly wage for a 911 dispatcher is approximately $25. Wishing you all the best in your journey!
Be prepared for a fast-paced environment, where you assess many different scenarios and learn a lot about healthcare protocol too. The best attributes for this job; staying calm, multi-tasking, general emergency/healthcare procedures.
it really is a great career to get in to, good luck!
Indeed, there are various college courses available that can equip you with the necessary skills to become a 911 dispatcher. However, the majority of the training is usually conducted by local fire or police departments. These departments typically have a thorough testing and screening process, but don't worry, the training you'll receive on the job can pave the way to a rewarding career! To give you an idea, in Northeast Ohio where I live, the starting hourly wage for a 911 dispatcher is approximately $25. Wishing you all the best in your journey!
Be prepared for a fast-paced environment, where you assess many different scenarios and learn a lot about healthcare protocol too. The best attributes for this job; staying calm, multi-tasking, general emergency/healthcare procedures.
it really is a great career to get in to, good luck!
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
45
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Hello Nena,
Congratulations on selecting such a noble and significant career path for your future. The precise prerequisites for becoming a 911 operator can differ from state to state, but I've done some digging and discovered some common elements. To begin with, you'll need to complete high school or obtain your GED. While a college degree isn't strictly necessary, it's worth noting that the role can be challenging, and acquiring an associate's or bachelor's degree could equip you better for the job's demands. Many opt for a 2 or 4-year degree in fields like criminal justice, psychology, homeland security, or emergency management.
Regardless of whether you decide to pursue a degree, training is a crucial part of any 911 dispatcher career. This includes initial training and continuous, on-the-job training. Your state might require you to take a telecommunicator class as part of your training. This course will enlighten you about the 911 dispatcher's role in the emergency system, provide an overview of the fire, police, EMS departments, and the types of calls they handle. You'll also acquire skills in interpersonal communication for dealing with callers and operating radio technologies. As you can see, the role of a 911 operator encompasses many areas. Once you've started your career as a 911 operator, you may also need to complete ongoing education annually.
A 911 dispatcher's salary can be influenced by several factors, including location, years of experience, and skill level. The average salary ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the state and city you're employed in and your level of experience.
Congratulations on selecting such a noble and significant career path for your future. The precise prerequisites for becoming a 911 operator can differ from state to state, but I've done some digging and discovered some common elements. To begin with, you'll need to complete high school or obtain your GED. While a college degree isn't strictly necessary, it's worth noting that the role can be challenging, and acquiring an associate's or bachelor's degree could equip you better for the job's demands. Many opt for a 2 or 4-year degree in fields like criminal justice, psychology, homeland security, or emergency management.
Regardless of whether you decide to pursue a degree, training is a crucial part of any 911 dispatcher career. This includes initial training and continuous, on-the-job training. Your state might require you to take a telecommunicator class as part of your training. This course will enlighten you about the 911 dispatcher's role in the emergency system, provide an overview of the fire, police, EMS departments, and the types of calls they handle. You'll also acquire skills in interpersonal communication for dealing with callers and operating radio technologies. As you can see, the role of a 911 operator encompasses many areas. Once you've started your career as a 911 operator, you may also need to complete ongoing education annually.
A 911 dispatcher's salary can be influenced by several factors, including location, years of experience, and skill level. The average salary ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the state and city you're employed in and your level of experience.