Description
Operate multi-line 9-1-1, administrative phones, radios, and computer-aided dispatch systems to receive, prioritize, and dispatch emergency and non-emergency requests for police, fire, and EMS. Gather critical information, provide pre-arrival instructions, coordinate field units, and access sensitive databases in accordance with agency protocols and certifications.
- • Prioritize incidents and dispatch appropriate police, fire, and EMS units per protocols.
- • Question callers to verify location, nature of incident, hazards, and patient status.
- • Provide pre-arrival medical, fire, and safety instructions using approved protocols.
- • Record and update call details, unit status, and timestamps in CAD.
- • Monitor unit availability and scan status boards and computer screens to manage resources.
- • Relay information between callers, field units, supervisors, and partner agencies.
- • Enter, query, and update law enforcement and emergency databases for persons, vehicles, and property.
- • Use maps and mapping systems to confirm jurisdiction, determine locations, and give directions.
- • Monitor multiple radio channels and alarm systems to detect and assess events.
- • Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive records, systems, and facilities.
- • Maintain rosters, call-out lists, and paging/notification files.
- • Answer non-emergency and information calls; refer to appropriate departments when needed.
- • Observe alarm registers and service boundaries to ensure calls are within coverage areas.
- • Test, troubleshoot, and report communication and alarm system malfunctions.
- • Learn, maintain, and document required certifications and protocol proficiency.
- • Operate console and backup communication systems during outages and major incidents.
- • Scan for developing situations across public safety and partner radio frequencies.
- • Prepare and retain logs and records of calls, dispatches, and messages.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Available on paid plans only
Interview time
Related Pathways
Public Service & Safety
View
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
