Emergency Communications Operator

Job Description Summary

This position is eligible for a sign on bonus.

Lateral Dispatch

Experience:

$3,500

Entry Level, No Dispatch

Experience:

$2,500

The role of the Emergency Communications Operator is an intersection of critical intervention of lifesaving instructions for the caller and a conduit of essential communications for the field responder to improve outcomes. The fundamental reason this classification exists is to receive, evaluate, and process all 9-1-1 calls for police, fire, and medical assistance; or, to operate base radio equipment for dispatching police units on police related incidents.

Depending on the assignment, incumbents may operate a complex multi-line telephone system, radios, computer terminals, and software equipment to receive, evaluate, and transmit information that frequently involves emergency situations affecting human welfare and safety. Work involves evaluating incoming calls, dispatching field units, and transmitting information and messages upon request and/or according to established procedures. Employees are expected to demonstrate extensive communications skills and to exercise judgment under pressure.

Work is performed under the general direction of a supervisor. Positions require shift, holiday, and weekend work.

$62,511.28 - $92,799.20 Annually

Goodyear, AZ

Full-Time Regular

FY2600651

PD-Telecommunications Division

Police Department

02/23/2026

3/23/2026 4:00 PM Arizona

Non-Exempt

The ideal Emergency Communications Operator is the calm in the storm—the reassuring voice when seconds count. This individual thrives under pressure, demonstrating exceptional multitasking skills and unwavering attention to detail. They are quick‑thinking, tech‑savvy, and communicate clearly and compassionately, even in the most challenging situations. They will be familiar with law enforcement processes and be able to work days and/or nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime hours as needed.

• Composure and Confidence – Staying focused and decisive during emergencies.
• Empathy and Professionalism – Treating every caller with respect and understanding.
• Adaptability – Navigating rapidly changing scenarios with ease.
• Team Spirit – Collaborating seamlessly with first responders and colleagues.
• Commitment to Excellence – Dedicated to accuracy, safety, and service.

This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The following functions do not identify all duties performed by the incumbent. Other duties and responsibilities will be performed as assigned.

• Assists citizens who call 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies, Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD), and multiple telephone lines by answering and screening all incoming calls, working under pressure and extreme time constraints to assess the emergency situation and act upon it, coordinating calls and relaying information and assistance requests to appropriate public safety agency.
• This is accomplished through:
  • Screening Initial Calls. Handling requests through traditional two-way communication voice calls via landline or wireless devices, or various sources such as text messages, visual data (video or images), social media, fire alarms, gunshot detection systems, and even automated data.
  • Demonstrating Clear and Effective Communications. As soon as a request for service is made, control the conversation, ensuring information received is as accurately as possible.
  • Ascertaining Incident Information. Determine the location of the emergency as exactly as possible. This includes ascertaining the numerical address of the structure (if applicable), street name(s), intersections, landmarks, etc. and/or interpreting information from other technology such as push-to-call, rideshare apps, and other applications on various operating systems. Retrieves and transmits data to/from officers by determining the nature and location of emergencies, prioritizing urgent situations, utilizing the Computer Aided Dispatch and ACJIS on (CAD), and maintaining contact with…