Public safety telecommunicators, including 911 operators and fire dispatchers, answer emergency and nonemergency calls and provide resources to assist those in need.
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Print Occupation
- Public Safety Telecommunicators
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
What do they typically do
- Answer 9-1-1 emergency and nonemergency requests from different sources, such as phone calls, text messages, social media, and alarm systems
- Determine the type of emergency and its location and decide the appropriate response based on agency procedures
- Relay information to the appropriate first-responder agency
- Coordinate the dispatch of emergency response personnel
- Give instructions to the person in need before emergency services arrive
- Monitor and track the status of police, fire, and ambulance units
- Synchronize responses with other area communication centers
- Keep detailed records of calls
Number of Jobs
Average Annual
Job Growth +1.2%
Job Openings 433
Education & Training
- Education These occupations usually require a high school diploma.Associated Programs or MajorsLicense
NC Workforce Credentials
- NC: Sheriffs’ Telecommunicator Certification [NC Department of Justice]
- NECI: Basic 911 Communication Certification [National Emergency Communications Institute]
Private Training Programs
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Change 474