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Public Safety

Dispatcher

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.

Annual openings

219

Median wage

$63,520

Typical education

High school (GED).

Growth 2026–2032

+11%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED).

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsNo

Interests it draws on

  • Law Enforcement
  • Public Safety

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Question callers to determine their locations and the nature of their problems to determine type of response needed.
  2. Determine response requirements and relative priorities of situations, and dispatch units in accordance with established procedures.
  3. Relay information and messages to and from emergency sites, to law enforcement agencies, and to all other individuals or groups requiring notification.
  4. Record details of calls, dispatches, and messages.
  5. Monitor various radio frequencies, such as those used by public works departments, school security, and civil defense, to stay apprised of developing situations.
  6. Read and effectively interpret small-scale maps and information from a computer screen to determine locations and provide directions.
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