Public Safety Dispatcher: Job & Testing Resources

The profession of public safety dispatching is exciting, challenging and rewarding. However, it can also be frustrating, stressful and emotional. These seemingly contradictory facets of dispatching make it one of the toughest jobs to master. But for those who do, it's a particularly good way to earn a living and serve your community.

The requirements for public safety dispatching jobs vary greatly by agency and area of the country. But we have summarized the most common requirements in the following sections. We have also included several sample job descriptions, screening methods and applicant procedures from actual agencies to provide a more comprehensive view of today's public safety dispatcher.

Not all police, fire or EMS agencies employ civilian dispatchers. Many agencies still place sworn officers or deputies, firefighters or EMS personnel in the comm center. There is a growing trend towards civilianization, both in recognition of the increased professionalism that the job requires, and as a way of decreasing costs. However, at many agencies, the parent police or fire department continues to maintain their supervisory and management level personnel to administer the communications center.

As with any job, there are state and federal laws that govern the process. You should know what questions a potential employer can ask and those which are forbidden to ask. You should understand your rights at each step of the process and how you stand at each step.