Public Safety Telecommunicators Entry-Level Career Resources

Associate Degree Entry Level Careers and Jobs

Explore Careers and Jobs Predominantly Filled by Those with an Associate's Degree or Less, having 1 year or less of work experience - All On One Page

Sorted by median annual U.S. salary, including % with Associate's Degree (or less), and % with 1 year experience (or less).

These entry-level roles are open to associate's degree graduates and offer a practical starting point for building experience and advancing. For recent graduates or career changers seeking their first role with a two-year degree. Compare starting salaries and degree-holder percentages, then access preparation resources built for new graduates.

4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video .

This page will take you through 4 steps, relative to an Associate's Degree, to (1) Select an entry-level career, (2) Find active job listings, (3) Prepare for the career you chose, and (4) Provide web resources specific to the career you chose.

Step 1: Select a Career: You will be presented with a listing of Associate's Degree entry-level careers. The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of careers below
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply browse the list of careers. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover entry-level careers that might be of interest.

Once you have identified a career of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the career you selected. Information includes core and supplemental duties, general and specific work activities, knowledge required, essential and transferable skills required, day-in-the-life summaries, knowledge required, software skills required, preparation required, educational requirements, training and work experience required, local salary information, certifications, professional associations, current job listings for the job selected along with multiple similar job titles, and related careers (related to what they do, what they know, and what they're called).

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that will provide detailed (updated) links to occupational information specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.

Step 1 of 4: Select a Career

Leading Books About Associate Degree Jobs
What entry level jobs can you get with just an Associate's Degree? Scroll through the picklist (below). These are entry level careers (1 year or less work experience) related to the Associate's Degree level, with at least 30% of job holders having an Associate's Degree. - 356 specific careers are listed. Select those careers that may be of interest - you will then get links to matching active job listings, and detailed resources to help you prepare.
You can use this form two ways:
1) Enter a Keyword - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the listing to those occupations that contain the keyword entered
2) Browse the list (Don't enter a keyword) - You can simply browse the list of occupations. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover jobs that might be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:

Select a Job Title - Sorted by Annual Salary -(scroll and Select) :
Legend: Career Title Link / (% having Associate's Degree or less) / (% having less than 1 year experience) / (Median Annual U.S. Salary)

Air Traffic Controllers / 78.05% / 54.55% / ($148,080)

Solar Energy Systems Engineers / 40.74% / 32.13% / ($122,930)

Nuclear Monitoring Technicians / 84.15% / 36.76% / ($110,240)

Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers / 99.66% / 38.99% / ($109,910)

First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives / 80.58% / 72.47% / ($106,040)

Computer Systems Analysts / 56.64% / 31.42% / ($105,850)

Radiation Therapists / 62.46% / 42.76% / ($105,310)

Solar Sales Representatives and Assessors / 67.01% / 62.53% / ($104,920)

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers / 47.05% / 41.17% / ($104,300)

Video Game Designers / 45.00% / 40.00% / ($104,000)

Nuclear Medicine Technologists / 68.68% / 42.91% / ($101,370)

Dental Hygienists / 75.18% / 69.49% / ($98,100)

Registered Nurses / 42.65% / 37.83% / ($97,550)

Critical Care Nurses / 35.71% / 60.71% / ($97,550)

Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance / 85.70% / 45.00% / ($97,150)

Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers / 100.00% / 44.44% / ($96,710)

Postmasters and Mail Superintendents / 86.55% / 44.63% / ($96,660)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists / 86.96% / 47.82% / ($95,480)

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers / 97.19% / 71.33% / ($95,320)

Police Identification and Records Officers / 75.14% / 39.28% / ($93,790)

Web Developers / 50.01% / 33.33% / ($92,650)

Signal and Track Switch Repairers / 100.00% / 62.23% / ($92,460)

Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation / 100.00% / 32.59% / ($92,100)

Transit and Railroad Police / 65.67% / 55.34% / ($90,230)

First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers / 42.07% / 30.56% / ($87,520)

Subway and Streetcar Operators / 100.00% / 63.96% / ($86,380)

Commercial and Industrial Designers / 32.08% / 32.87% / ($83,910)

Online Merchants / 58.72% / 37.80% / ($83,050)

Cartographers and Photogrammetrists / 57.51% / 56.99% / ($81,390)

Government Property Inspectors and Investigators / 60.66% / 49.63% / ($80,730)

Coroners / 40.00% / 40.00% / ($80,730)

Solar Energy Installation Managers / 93.70% / 75.35% / ($79,920)

Funeral Home Managers / 93.51% / 44.25% / ($78,790)

Roof Bolters, Mining / 100.00% / 97.75% / ($78,540)

Non-Destructive Testing Specialists / 90.91% / 72.73% / ($78,350)

Photonics Technicians / 81.82% / 40.92% / ($78,350)

Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters / 100.00% / 80.65% / ($78,000)

First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers / 89.30% / 37.26% / ($77,970)

Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators / 100.00% / 46.65% / ($77,320)

Electrical and Electronics Drafters / 57.47% / 46.57% / ($76,870)

Boilermakers / 100.01% / 55.45% / ($76,410)

Customs and Border Protection Officers / 70.66% / 53.52% / ($76,210)

Terrazzo Workers and Finishers / 100.01% / 63.18% / ($76,170)

Fire Inspectors and Investigators / 95.76% / 36.53% / ($75,920)

Surveyors / 52.63% / 30.00% / ($75,440)

Film and Video Editors / 34.31% / 32.92% / ($75,420)

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film / 93.10% / 69.17% / ($74,990)

Energy Auditors / 75.86% / 31.04% / ($74,690)

Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining / 100.00% / 74.51% / ($74,500)

Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians / 93.42% / 43.17% / ($74,310)

Occupational Therapy Assistants / 96.81% / 82.25% / ($72,300)

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products / 66.12% / 36.34% / ($72,080)

Forensic Science Technicians / 65.60% / 32.02% / ($72,060)

Wellhead Pumpers / 100.00% / 46.56% / ($69,960)

Food Service Managers / 90.26% / 44.19% / ($69,390)

Physical Therapist Assistants / 84.16% / 80.80% / ($68,380)

Crane and Tower Operators / 100.00% / 53.05% / ($68,080)

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas / 91.08% / 43.40% / ($67,890)

Rail Car Repairers / 99.99% / 75.83% / ($67,530)

Transportation Security Screeners / 100.00% / 96.29% / ($66,770)

Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School / 32.71% / 31.47% / ($66,270)

Millwrights / 100.00% / 45.47% / ($65,700)

Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers / 84.35% / 40.06% / ($65,380)

Hearing Aid Specialists / 43.26% / 42.87% / ($65,160)

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses / 88.91% / 58.54% / ($64,400)

Wind Turbine Service Technicians / 100.01% / 62.56% / ($64,120)

Tool and Die Makers / 100.00% / 33.04% / ($64,050)

First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers / 93.54% / 46.15% / ($63,820)

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters / 100.01% / 31.51% / ($63,800)

Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians / 77.54% / 54.49% / ($63,800)

Flight Attendants / 87.65% / 58.72% / ($63,580)

Electricians / 98.70% / 50.15% / ($63,190)

Paralegals and Legal Assistants / 43.47% / 34.43% / ($62,890)

Riggers / 100.00% / 64.67% / ($62,640)

Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters / 95.84% / 52.32% / ($62,620)

Biofuels Processing Technicians / 100.00% / 71.47% / ($62,470)

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents / 62.46% / 38.40% / ($62,370)

Quality Control Analysts / 72.10% / 71.31% / ($62,280)

Insurance Sales Agents / 53.10% / 72.73% / ($62,280)

Postal Service Clerks / 100.00% / 56.00% / ($62,130)

Brickmasons and Blockmasons / 99.99% / 37.22% / ($62,120)

Computer User Support Specialists / 48.31% / 32.44% / ($61,860)

Continuous Mining Machine Operators / 100.00% / 48.55% / ($61,810)

Sheet Metal Workers / 100.01% / 62.55% / ($61,800)

Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers / 82.35% / 45.13% / ($61,770)

Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons / 100.00% / 88.40% / ($61,290)

Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers / 100.00% / 81.33% / ($60,600)

Postal Service Mail Carriers / 100.00% / 98.83% / ($60,550)

Chemical Technicians / 56.26% / 47.59% / ($60,390)

Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas / 99.99% / 54.34% / ($60,190)

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers / 100.00% / 41.35% / ($60,070)

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators / 100.00% / 54.17% / ($60,020)

Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks / 100.01% / 46.62% / ($59,650)

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity / 99.99% / 67.21% / ($59,050)

Correctional Officers and Jailers / 100.00% / 77.83% / ($58,940)

Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders / 98.23% / 50.55% / ($58,870)

Machinists / 100.00% / 38.18% / ($58,750)

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers / 82.43% / 61.59% / ($58,650)

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers / 99.99% / 38.91% / ($58,640)

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas / 99.99% / 53.72% / ($58,620)

Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators / 100.01% / 94.65% / ($58,470)

Insulation Workers, Mechanical / 100.01% / 89.76% / ($58,340)

Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors / 81.54% / 30.91% / ($58,170)

Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas / 100.00% / 53.07% / ($58,160)

Bridge and Lock Tenders / 100.00% / 65.00% / ($57,700)

Plasterers and Stucco Masons / 100.00% / 58.97% / ($57,660)

Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians / 100.00% / 40.17% / ($57,550)

Biological Technicians / 31.37% / 52.56% / ($57,510)

Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining / 100.00% / 51.60% / ($57,430)

Tire Builders / 99.47% / 76.18% / ($57,390)

Glaziers / 100.01% / 55.76% / ($57,080)

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers / 99.99% / 76.91% / ($57,020)

Airfield Operations Specialists / 49.14% / 50.32% / ($56,850)

Bailiffs / 99.99% / 61.67% / ($56,600)

Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians / 100.00% / 46.96% / ($56,550)

Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles / 99.99% / 52.68% / ($56,460)

Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers / 100.01% / 39.94% / ($56,210)

First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers / 88.58% / 46.75% / ($55,940)

Tile and Stone Setters / 100.00% / 50.34% / ($55,690)

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators / 64.62% / 42.16% / ($55,490)

Desktop Publishers / 61.30% / 45.93% / ($55,290)

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health / 31.83% / 68.18% / ($55,090)

Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers / 88.76% / 81.80% / ($55,010)

Tax Preparers / 76.20% / 47.61% / ($54,920)

Automotive Body and Related Repairers / 99.99% / 70.29% / ($54,890)

Forest and Conservation Technicians / 85.19% / 50.94% / ($54,560)

Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 81.40% / ($54,430)

Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs / 68.62% / 43.38% / ($54,210)

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers / 99.05% / 39.51% / ($53,750)

Engine and Other Machine Assemblers / 92.80% / 59.42% / ($53,710)

Public Safety Telecommunicators / 95.26% / 68.18% / ($53,040)

Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers / 92.91% / 31.80% / ($52,720)

Audiovisual Equipment Installers and Repairers / 94.78% / 45.81% / ($52,600)

Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers / 84.34% / 32.98% / ($52,540)

Cargo and Freight Agents / 69.25% / 74.53% / ($52,260)

Paperhangers / 100.00% / 49.80% / ($52,140)

Food Science Technicians / 52.50% / 67.10% / ($52,130)

Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians / 100.00% / 48.27% / ($52,000)

Pourers and Casters, Metal / 100.00% / 83.26% / ($51,810)

Semiconductor Processing Technicians / 99.68% / 76.98% / ($51,430)

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters / 100.00% / 65.72% / ($51,330)

Locksmiths and Safe Repairers / 92.30% / 50.00% / ($51,320)

Animal Breeders / 95.94% / 47.64% / ($51,130)

Proofreaders and Copy Markers / 52.69% / 47.90% / ($51,120)

Home Appliance Repairers / 100.01% / 55.34% / ($50,990)

Tree Trimmers and Pruners / 100.00% / 39.55% / ($50,960)

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators / 96.78% / 49.34% / ($50,690)

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks / 81.29% / 32.20% / ($50,670)

Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 90.27% / 50.57% / ($50,620)

Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping / 65.40% / 30.88% / ($50,610)

Floor Sanders and Finishers / 100.00% / 30.71% / ($50,440)

Costume Attendants / 68.86% / 51.62% / ($50,400)

Carpet Installers / 100.00% / 31.43% / ($50,340)

Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance / 92.98% / 44.53% / ($50,340)

Neurodiagnostic Technologists / 83.87% / 48.40% / ($50,290)

Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.01% / 82.14% / ($50,270)

Highway Maintenance Workers / 100.00% / 58.12% / ($50,260)

Travel Agents / 85.65% / 31.99% / ($50,160)

Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 100.00% / 62.67% / ($50,140)

Loan Interviewers and Clerks / 61.75% / 36.81% / ($50,020)

Agricultural Inspectors / 87.88% / 45.67% / ($49,940)

Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners / 99.99% / 69.64% / ($49,880)

Logging Equipment Operators / 100.00% / 75.24% / ($49,740)

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors / 100.00% / 40.92% / ($49,690)

Dredge Operators / 100.00% / 46.67% / ($49,640)

Agricultural Technicians / 63.19% / 40.58% / ($49,630)

Precision Agriculture Technicians / 60.87% / 43.48% / ($49,630)

Dental Laboratory Technicians / 92.45% / 35.15% / ($49,610)

Painters, Construction and Maintenance / 98.15% / 48.09% / ($49,400)

Geothermal Technicians / 100.00% / 47.90% / ($49,230)

Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks / 93.41% / 36.31% / ($49,230)

Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall / 100.00% / 81.05% / ($49,120)

First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers / 87.75% / 44.39% / ($49,100)

Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 92.88% / 48.80% / ($49,080)

Pipelayers / 100.00% / 43.07% / ($49,000)

Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 92.48% / ($48,990)

Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 100.00% / 99.79% / ($48,750)

Rock Splitters, Quarry / 81.02% / 87.71% / ($48,740)

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers / 100.00% / 58.28% / ($48,570)

Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 62.22% / ($48,540)

First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers / 99.58% / 37.01% / ($48,520)

Models / 96.06% / 96.07% / ($48,470)

Endoscopy Technicians / 100.01% / 73.08% / ($48,430)

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants / 57.73% / 85.80% / ($48,430)

Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 67.28% / ($48,250)

Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers / 99.99% / 93.70% / ($48,220)

Foundry Mold and Coremakers / 100.00% / 83.14% / ($48,110)

Dental Assistants / 100.00% / 61.45% / ($48,070)

Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders / 98.16% / 65.88% / ($48,040)

Fence Erectors / 99.99% / 88.21% / ($47,980)

Cooks, Private Household / 100.00% / 42.31% / ($47,940)

Bus Drivers, School / 100.00% / 90.59% / ($47,920)

Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 70.42% / ($47,920)

Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics / 100.00% / 33.69% / ($47,880)

Helpers--Extraction Workers / 100.01% / 89.58% / ($47,730)

Medical Equipment Preparers / 82.92% / 43.14% / ($47,700)

New Accounts Clerks / 100.00% / 58.40% / ($47,670)

Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters / 93.77% / 65.96% / ($47,550)

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive / 89.01% / 43.85% / ($47,540)

Motorboat Operators / 85.14% / 45.12% / ($47,520)

Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers / 100.00% / 72.61% / ($47,450)

Veterinary Technologists and Technicians / 89.60% / 70.52% / ($47,380)

Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys / 59.63% / 40.27% / ($47,340)

Opticians, Dispensing / 100.00% / 50.00% / ($47,260)

Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 100.00% / 63.96% / ($47,180)

Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors / 61.91% / 52.38% / ($47,160)

Construction Laborers / 100.00% / 83.68% / ($47,120)

Bill and Account Collectors / 78.88% / 52.69% / ($47,030)

Roustabouts, Oil and Gas / 100.00% / 43.99% / ($46,960)

Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators / 99.36% / 83.68% / ($46,880)

Self-Enrichment Teachers / 45.76% / 33.67% / ($46,800)

Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders / 99.99% / 80.47% / ($46,460)

Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators / 100.00% / 51.68% / ($46,420)

Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners / 90.92% / 36.37% / ($46,420)

Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping / 99.49% / 87.75% / ($46,380)

Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers / 100.00% / 67.03% / ($46,350)

Upholsterers / 100.00% / 31.96% / ($46,340)

Log Graders and Scalers / 100.00% / 49.41% / ($46,330)

Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 100.00% / 36.13% / ($46,330)

Stone Cutters and Carvers, Manufacturing / 99.03% / 48.34% / ($46,170)

Craft Artists / 86.96% / 34.79% / ($46,080)

Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers / 100.00% / 77.97% / ($45,990)

Social and Human Service Assistants / 44.61% / 60.58% / ($45,930)

Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan / 98.84% / 34.25% / ($45,920)

Printing Press Operators / 100.00% / 40.17% / ($45,780)

Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 96.10% / 50.94% / ($45,760)

Pharmacy Technicians / 96.16% / 80.98% / ($45,750)

Medical Assistants / 82.53% / 81.37% / ($45,690)

Animal Control Workers / 96.15% / 42.31% / ($45,660)

Ophthalmic Medical Technicians / 100.00% / 45.45% / ($45,570)

Skincare Specialists / 78.15% / 70.98% / ($45,330)

Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks / 89.25% / 85.10% / ($45,260)

Psychiatric Technicians / 68.09% / 75.29% / ($45,130)

Office Clerks, General / 99.76% / 47.07% / ($45,010)

Psychiatric Aides / 95.92% / 72.31% / ($44,910)

Light Truck Drivers / 100.00% / 99.31% / ($44,860)

Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 65.83% / ($44,810)

Customer Service Representatives / 85.79% / 48.94% / ($44,770)

Photographers / 81.82% / 36.37% / ($44,660)

Library Technicians / 68.58% / 66.51% / ($44,580)

Furniture Finishers / 100.00% / 45.95% / ($44,540)

Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks / 99.42% / 76.21% / ($44,390)

Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 100.00% / 57.82% / ($44,350)

First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers / 100.00% / 65.46% / ($44,080)

Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic / 96.57% / 85.26% / ($43,960)

Forest and Conservation Workers / 57.20% / 41.32% / ($43,680)

File Clerks / 91.72% / 39.40% / ($43,600)

Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders / 100.01% / 70.21% / ($43,530)

Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing / 98.28% / 68.80% / ($43,380)

Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators / 100.00% / 80.06% / ($43,370)

Tutors / 54.54% / 72.73% / ($43,350)

Etchers and Engravers / 99.99% / 41.69% / ($43,310)

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 78.21% / ($43,220)

Tellers / 91.68% / 92.13% / ($43,030)

Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood / 100.00% / 70.09% / ($42,770)

Helpers--Electricians / 98.70% / 58.74% / ($42,670)

Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand / 100.00% / 64.30% / ($42,660)

Retail Loss Prevention Specialists / 89.50% / 61.98% / ($42,540)

Conveyor Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 94.70% / ($42,420)

Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters / 90.30% / 60.09% / ($42,360)

Print Binding and Finishing Workers / 100.01% / 42.89% / ($42,290)

Food Batchmakers / 99.99% / 83.20% / ($42,290)

Nursing Assistants / 87.36% / 81.52% / ($42,260)

Residential Advisors / 59.02% / 65.91% / ($42,240)

Telephone Operators / 100.00% / 45.37% / ($41,740)

Agricultural Equipment Operators / 99.99% / 61.03% / ($41,730)

Substitute Teachers, Short-Term / 55.21% / 66.44% / ($41,670)

Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers / 90.54% / 56.27% / ($41,640)

Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers / 100.00% / 97.14% / ($41,600)

Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 72.87% / ($41,590)

Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News and Street Vendors, and Related Workers / 100.00% / 95.83% / ($41,380)

Data Entry Keyers / 100.00% / 48.23% / ($41,340)

Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 51.07% / ($41,330)

Counter and Rental Clerks / 79.75% / 74.93% / ($41,300)

Machine Feeders and Offbearers / 100.00% / 73.86% / ($41,220)

Office Machine Operators, Except Computer / 82.57% / 57.68% / ($40,960)

Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials / 80.95% / 57.14% / ($40,710)

Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators / 94.81% / 66.47% / ($40,610)

Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons / 100.00% / 60.78% / ($40,470)

Medical Transcriptionists / 100.00% / 66.02% / ($40,410)

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand / 100.00% / 68.49% / ($40,240)

Recycling and Reclamation Workers / 91.99% / 97.72% / ($40,240)

Butchers and Meat Cutters / 100.00% / 32.98% / ($40,140)

Slaughterers and Meat Packers / 100.00% / 60.24% / ($40,130)

Animal Trainers / 98.25% / 44.20% / ($39,990)

Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 76.39% / ($39,530)

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians / 91.17% / 67.45% / ($39,460)

Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers / 82.36% / 65.27% / ($39,390)

Demonstrators and Product Promoters / 99.34% / 99.34% / ($39,320)

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service / 100.00% / 96.52% / ($39,280)

Occupational Therapy Aides / 98.20% / 75.70% / ($39,160)

Helpers--Production Workers / 92.38% / 89.55% / ($39,070)

Concierges / 90.91% / 63.65% / ($38,950)

Driver/Sales Workers / 100.00% / 91.91% / ($38,770)

Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 74.10% / ($38,760)

Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders / 100.00% / 99.60% / ($38,670)

Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service / 96.96% / 60.95% / ($38,630)

Parts Salespersons / 86.38% / 35.11% / ($38,630)

Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers / 98.70% / 95.45% / ($38,300)

Orderlies / 100.00% / 84.96% / ($38,290)

Motion Picture Projectionists / 89.90% / 90.17% / ($38,270)

Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders / 100.01% / 93.56% / ($38,180)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers / 99.54% / 78.62% / ($38,150)

Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education / 62.81% / 50.90% / ($38,140)

Crossing Guards and Flaggers / 100.00% / 90.24% / ($38,100)

Cutters and Trimmers, Hand / 100.00% / 58.19% / ($38,020)

Security Guards / 98.04% / 80.52% / ($38,020)

Receptionists and Information Clerks / 100.00% / 47.01% / ($38,010)

Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers / 100.00% / 98.78% / ($37,800)

Pharmacy Aides / 100.00% / 79.83% / ($37,680)

Dietetic Technicians / 93.29% / 45.65% / ($37,640)

Gambling Cage Workers / 100.00% / 57.48% / ($37,580)

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria / 93.22% / 64.36% / ($37,450)

Cooks, Restaurant / 99.99% / 83.35% / ($37,390)

Baggage Porters and Bellhops / 100.01% / 80.60% / ($37,080)

Library Assistants, Clerical / 95.43% / 72.18% / ($36,910)

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners / 75.92% / 78.11% / ($36,840)

Sewing Machine Operators / 99.99% / 58.36% / ($36,670)

Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals / 99.77% / 54.31% / ($36,670)

Recreation Workers / 37.90% / 40.14% / ($36,560)

Sewers, Hand / 99.48% / 60.39% / ($36,480)

Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants / 89.23% / 53.66% / ($36,300)

Packers and Packagers, Hand / 100.00% / 99.39% / ($36,280)

Gambling Change Persons and Booth Cashiers / 100.00% / 84.76% / ($36,220)

Cooks, Short Order / 100.01% / 81.36% / ($35,880)

Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment / 99.99% / 82.18% / ($35,830)

Manicurists and Pedicurists / 100.00% / 83.60% / ($35,760)

Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products / 100.00% / 87.28% / ($35,730)

Funeral Attendants / 88.97% / 69.50% / ($35,680)

Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants / 100.00% / 62.92% / ($35,670)

Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse / 75.14% / 71.76% / ($35,660)

Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders / 100.00% / 80.85% / ($35,650)

Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners / 89.15% / 79.59% / ($35,510)

Telemarketers / 100.00% / 78.19% / ($35,450)

Retail Salespersons / 96.00% / 75.39% / ($35,410)

Food Servers, Nonrestaurant / 87.18% / 78.54% / ($35,360)

Animal Caretakers / 86.63% / 65.83% / ($35,360)

Food Preparation Workers / 95.85% / 88.15% / ($35,320)

Physical Therapist Aides / 81.30% / 72.78% / ($35,240)

Waiters and Waitresses / 100.00% / 98.56% / ($35,230)

Parking Attendants / 99.04% / 97.27% / ($35,150)

Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks / 95.41% / 84.96% / ($35,070)

Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials / 85.85% / 36.62% / ($35,060)

Gambling and Sports Book Writers and Runners / 100.01% / 72.38% / ($34,980)

Childcare Workers / 91.29% / 49.53% / ($34,980)

Dishwashers / 100.00% / 100.00% / ($34,810)

Bartenders / 98.88% / 57.35% / ($34,340)

Gambling Dealers / 100.00% / 62.42% / ($34,320)

Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers / 100.00% / 93.53% / ($33,980)

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers / 98.78% / 76.80% / ($33,580)

Cashiers / 100.00% / 72.87% / ($32,880)

Shampooers / 100.00% / 93.40% / ($32,600)

Amusement and Recreation Attendants / 98.57% / 94.63% / ($32,150)

Fast Food and Counter Workers / 99.96% / 80.65% / ($31,200)

Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop / 86.88% / 85.05% / ($31,200)

Dancers / 100.01% / 62.06% / (Salary Not Available)

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Job Listings for: Public Safety Telecommunicators.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career

Prepare for the "Public Safety Telecommunicators" Career
The details below will provide a pathway to your specific job goal and help you to identify an appropriate career ladder.

Public Safety Telecommunicators

Description: Operate telephone, radio, or other communication systems to receive and communicate requests for emergency assistance at 9-1-1 public safety answering points and emergency operations centers. Take information from the public and other sources regarding crimes, threats, disturbances, acts of terrorism, fires, medical emergencies, and other public safety matters. May coordinate and provide information to law enforcement and emergency response personnel. May access sensitive databases and other information sources as needed. May provide additional instructions to callers based on knowledge of and certification in law enforcement, fire, or emergency medical procedures.

U.S. Total Employment (2025): 105,600	U.S. Total Employment (2035 est.): 109,500
Employment Change (2025-2035 est.): 3,900 (3.7%)	Average Annual Job Openings (2025-2035 est.): 9,000

Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Public Safety Telecommunicators":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance) For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 100 (%)	Description: Question callers to determine their locations and the nature of their problems to determine type of response needed.
Importance: 100 (%)	Description: Learn material and pass required tests for certification.
Importance: 100 (%)	Description: Answer routine inquiries, and refer calls not requiring dispatches to appropriate departments and agencies.
Importance: 100 (%)	Description: Determine response requirements and relative priorities of situations, and dispatch units in accordance with established procedures.
Importance: 100 (%)	Description: Read and effectively interpret small-scale maps and information from a computer screen to determine locations and provide directions.
Importance: 99 (%)	Description: Receive incoming telephone or alarm system calls regarding emergency and non-emergency police and fire service, emergency ambulance service, information, and after-hours calls for departments within a city.
Importance: 99 (%)	Description: Record details of calls, dispatches, and messages.
Importance: 98 (%)	Description: Relay information and messages to and from emergency sites, to law enforcement agencies, and to all other individuals or groups requiring notification.
Importance: 98 (%)	Description: Enter, update, and retrieve information from teletype networks and computerized data systems regarding such things as wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, and stolen vehicles.
Importance: 94 (%)	Description: Maintain access to, and security of, highly sensitive materials.
Importance: 93 (%)	Description: Monitor various radio frequencies, such as those used by public works departments, school security, and civil defense, to stay apprised of developing situations.
Importance: 93 (%)	Description: Scan status charts and computer screens, and contact emergency response field units to determine emergency units available for dispatch.
Importance: 90 (%)	Description: Maintain files of information relating to emergency calls, such as personnel rosters and emergency call-out and pager files.
Importance: 82 (%)	Description: Observe alarm registers and scan maps to determine whether a specific emergency is in the dispatch service area.
Importance: 81 (%)	Description: Provide emergency medical instructions to callers.
Importance: 72 (%)	Description: Test and adjust communication and alarm systems, and report malfunctions to maintenance units.

Supplemental Duties

Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance) For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 62 (%)	Description: Monitor alarm systems to detect emergencies, such as fires and illegal entry into establishments.
Importance: 37 (%)	Description: Operate and maintain mobile dispatch vehicles and equipment.

Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance) For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 98 (%)	Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 96 (%)	Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 95 (%)	Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 93 (%)	Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 90 (%)	Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 88 (%)	Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 88 (%)	Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 88 (%)	Description: Performing for or Working Directly with the Public: Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Importance: 87 (%)	Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 84 (%)	Description: Assisting and Caring for Others: Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Importance: 83 (%)	Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 82 (%)	Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 80 (%)	Description: Performing Administrative Activities: Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Importance: 79 (%)	Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 78 (%)	Description: Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others: Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Importance: 76 (%)	Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 74 (%)	Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 73 (%)	Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 72 (%)	Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Importance: 72 (%)	Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 72 (%)	Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 71 (%)	Description: Coaching and Developing Others: Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Importance: 67 (%)	Description: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials: Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Importance: 67 (%)	Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 66 (%)	Description: Developing and Building Teams: Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Importance: 66 (%)	Description: Staffing Organizational Units: Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Importance: 66 (%)	Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 64 (%)	Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 64 (%)	Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Importance: 63 (%)	Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 61 (%)	Description: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates: Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Adjust office equipment to ensure proper operation.
Answer telephones to direct calls or provide information.
Confer with coworkers to coordinate work activities.
Coordinate operational activities.
Discuss goods or services information with customers or patrons.
Enter information into databases or software programs.
Interpret blueprints, specifications, or diagrams to inform installation, development or operation activities.
Maintain call records.
Maintain current knowledge related to work activities.
Maintain security.
Monitor alarm systems.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Operate communications equipment or systems.
Operate vehicles or material-moving equipment.
Provide basic health care services.
Refer customers to appropriate personnel.
Relay information between personnel.
Report maintenance or equipment problems to appropriate personnel.
Search files, databases or reference materials to obtain needed information.

Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance) For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 97 (%)	Description: Public Safety and Security: Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Importance: 89 (%)	Description: Law and Government: Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Importance: 88 (%)	Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 87 (%)	Description: Telecommunications: Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Importance: 86 (%)	Description: Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 83 (%)	Description: Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 82 (%)	Description: Communications and Media: Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 79 (%)	Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 75 (%)	Description: Administrative: Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 69 (%)	Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 66 (%)	Description: Psychology: Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Importance: 64 (%)	Description: Personnel and Human Resources: Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Importance: 63 (%)	Description: Therapy and Counseling: Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Importance: 61 (%)	Description: Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance) These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 73 (%)	Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 68 (%)	Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 62 (%)	Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 60 (%)	Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 52 (%)	Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 52 (%)	Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance) These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%)	Description
Importance: 64 (%)	Description: Social Perceptiveness: Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Importance: 62 (%)	Description: Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Importance: 62 (%)	Description: Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.
Importance: 56 (%)	Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 54 (%)	Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 52 (%)	Description: Persuasion: Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?

Activity: Adjust equipment to ensure adequate performance.

Activity: Administer basic health care or medical treatments.

Activity: Assist others to access additional services or resources.

Activity: Communicate with others about operational plans or activities.

Activity: Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures.

Activity: Explain technical details of products or services.

Activity: Gather information from physical or electronic sources.

Activity: Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise.

Activity: Maintain operational records.

Activity: Maintain safety or security.

Activity: Monitor equipment operation.

Activity: Monitor safety or security of work areas, facilities, or properties.

Activity: Notify others of emergencies or problems.

Activity: Operate communications equipment or systems.

Activity: Operate transportation equipment or vehicles.

Activity: Process digital or online data.

Activity: Provide information to guests, clients, or customers.

Activity: Read documents or materials to inform work processes.

Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?

High-Priority Tech Skills

Office suite software:

Microsoft Office software

Spreadsheet software:

Microsoft Excel

Emerging Tech Skills

Data base user interface and query software:

Microsoft Access

Document management software:

Microsoft SharePoint

Electronic mail software:

Microsoft Outlook

Enterprise resource planning ERP software:

SAP software

Presentation software:

Microsoft PowerPoint

Word processing software:

Microsoft Word

General Software Tools

Data base user interface and query software:

911 system information databases
Law enforcement information databases
National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database
National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System NLETS

Geographic information system:

Geographic information system GIS systems

Helpdesk or call center software:

Computer aided dispatch software
Spillman Technologies Spillman Computer-Aided Dispatch

Internet browser software:

Web browser software

Mobile messaging service software:

Intrado SchoolMessenger

Office suite software:

Corel WordPerfect Office Suite

Preparation Required

Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?

Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed

Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

These occupations involve following instructions and often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include dishwashers, landscaping and groundskeeping workers, counter and rental clerks, dental laboratory technicians, and security guards.

Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%)	Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 63.4 (%)	Level of Education: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 11.0 (%)	Level of Education: Some College Courses
Frequency of Attainment: 10.6 (%)	Level of Education: Post-Secondary Certificate
Frequency of Attainment: 10.3 (%)	Level of Education: Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree
Frequency of Attainment: 4.7 (%)	Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%)	Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 58.6 (%)	Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 21.6 (%)	Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 10.3 (%)	Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 9.6 (%)	Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year

Local Salary Information

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Certifications

Certifications These are examples of certifications that may be important for this occupation. How can you begin exploring which certifications fit your goals and what steps you would need to take to earn them?

Emergency Fire Dispatcher Certification
Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certification
Emergency Number Professional
Emergency Police Dispatcher Certification
Emergency Telecommunicator Certification
STCW - GMDSS Radio Operator

Professional Associations

Professional Associations These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?

Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials Institute, Inc. (APCOI)

Job Listings

Job Listings and Similar Occupational Titles - scroll and click to identify common requirements, keywords, and skills in current job listings

Public Safety Telecommunicators

911 Dispatcher

911 Emergency Dispatcher

911 Emergency Services Dispatcher

Call Person

Call Taker

Communications Dispatcher

Communications Officer

Communications Operator

Communications Specialist

Dispatch Officer

Dispatch Operator

Dispatch Specialist

Dispatch Technician (Dispatch Tech)

Dispatcher

Emergency Communications Dispatcher

Emergency Communications Officer (ECO)

Emergency Communications Operator (ECO)

Emergency Dispatcher

Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD)

Emergency Operator

Emergency Services Dispatcher

Emergency Telecommunications Dispatcher (ETD)

Emergency Vehicle Dispatcher

Fire Dispatcher

Fire Fighters Dispatcher

Forest Fire Fighters Dispatcher

Police and Fire Dispatcher

Police Communications Dispatcher

Police Communications Operator

Police Dispatcher

Police Radio Dispatcher

Police Telecommunicator

Protective Signal Operator

Public Safety Dispatcher

Public Safety Telecommunicator

Radio Dispatcher

Security Dispatch Officer

Security Dispatcher

Telecommunications Officer

Telecommunications Operator

Telecommunications Specialist

Telecommunicator

Related Careers to Consider

Related Careers to Consider This lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to what "Public Safety Telecommunicators" do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit. How do these related occupations align with your interests, skills, and goals?
1 - Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance
2 - Emergency Medical Technicians
3 - Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service
4 - Paramedics
5 - First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers
6 - Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
7 - Transit and Railroad Police
8 - Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians
9 - Airfield Operations Specialists
10 - Telephone Operators
11 - Emergency Management Directors
12 - Security Guards
13 - First-Line Supervisors of Passenger Attendants
14 - Security Managers
15 - First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
16 - Air Traffic Controllers
17 - First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers
18 - Security Management Specialists
19 - Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
20 - Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists

Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated)

This section contains detailed resources appropriate to "Public Safety Telecommunicators". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.

Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.

Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.

Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.

Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.

Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.

Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Public Safety Telecommunicators". Use these links to find a job.

Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Public Safety Telecommunicators". Use these links to find a job.

Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.

Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Public Safety Telecommunicators

Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...

LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.

Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Public Safety Telecommunicators" occupation.

Developed by Dr. Ralph Jagodka, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus of Business Management at Mt. San Antonio College and author of the Harvard Business Impact article "What to Do When Students Ask You for Career Advice." - Full bio. © 2026 About This Page