Police communications technicians are a critical component in the first-responder network in a community. Also known as 911 operators or police dispatchers, they are responsible for answering calls from the public and sending police, firefighters and medical crews to accident scenes and other locations. Technicians are trained to collect detailed information and assist or calm the caller. They also provide information and coordination for the crews they dispatch. Employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, and some departments prefer candidates with associate or bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, communications or related areas.
As of 2011, police dispatchers in the U.S. earned an average yearly salary of $37,460, or $18.01 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those with salaries in the lowest 10 percent of the pay scale earned $22,700 or less. Communications technicians in the top 10 percent earned $55,640 or more.
The BLS reports that dispatchers in police departments and other emergency agencies in California earned the highest average annual salary, $55,070. They were followed by their counterparts in Nevada, at $52,770, and Oregon, at $48,320. At the other end of the scale, West Virginia dispatchers earned the lowest average wage, $24,000. They were followed by those in Mississippi, at $24,200, and Arkansas, at $24,960.
Training and Certification
Technicians generally receive on-the-job training through employer programs or professional associations when they join a department or agency. Training and certification requirements vary by state. Some require technicians to attend formal training programs and continuing-education training. Certification programs are available through professional groups such as the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials, the National Emergency Number Association and the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
According to the BLS, job growth for police communication technicians is expected to be 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, about the same as the average for all occupations. Population growth and an overall aging population are primary factors expected to influence demand in this profession.
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