Public Safety Telecommunicators: Behind the Scenes of Emergency Response

When we call 911, we expect immediate assistance to arrive at our doorstep. However, there is a vital group of professionals who ensure that emergency response services are dispatched as quickly as possible. These unsung heroes are known as public safety telecommunicators, who work tirelessly to keep the public safe in times of crisis.

What is a Public Safety Telecommunicator?

Public safety telecommunicators are professionals who receive and dispatch emergency calls, coordinate emergency services, and provide critical support to first responders. They work in emergency communication centers, also known as public safety answering points (PSAPs), and are responsible for connecting callers to the appropriate emergency services such as police, fire, or ambulance.

They play a crucial role in the emergency response system, ensuring that help arrives at the scene as quickly as possible. They also provide valuable guidance and support to callers, who may be scared, traumatized or in shock. Public safety telecommunicators are the first point of contact between the public and emergency services, and their ability to remain calm and composed under pressure is essential.

Examples of Public Safety Telecommunication Jobs

Public safety telecommunication is a diverse field, and job responsibilities may vary depending on the employer. Some of the common job roles include:

• Call Taker: Answering incoming emergency and non-emergency calls, questioning the caller to determine the nature of the incident, and dispatching the appropriate emergency response services.
• Dispatcher: Coordinating the dispatch of emergency response services such as police, fire, and ambulance. They communicate with emergency service personnel and provide them with the necessary information to respond to the incident.
• Supervisor: Managing the day to day operations of the communication center, including staff scheduling, training, and performance management.

Education and Training for Public Safety Telecommunicators

Most public safety telecommunication jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers may also require some additional education or training, such as:

• Certificate Programs: Certificate programs are offered by community colleges or vocational schools and provide specific training on the technical skills and knowledge required for the profession.
• Associates Degree: Associates degree programs are available in public safety and emergency management, which provide a broad understanding of emergency response systems, communication technologies, and incident command systems.
• On-the-Job Training: Many employers provide on-the-job training to new employees to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the responsibilities of the job.

Progressing Between Levels in Public Safety Telecommunication

Public safety telecommunication is a hierarchical field, and telecommunicators may progress through different levels as they gain experience and skills. The standard levels include:

• Trainee: This is the entry-level position, where new employees receive training and mentorship from experienced staff.
• Telecommunicator I: This level is achieved after successful completion of the training program, where employees have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to handle emergency calls and dispatch emergency services.
• Telecommunicator II: This level involves additional responsibilities such as supervising other telecommunicators, coordinating emergency response activities, and managing incidents.
• Telecommunicator III: This is the highest level in public safety telecommunication, which involves managing the entire communication center’s operations, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, and providing strategic leadership for the team.

Getting into Public Safety Telecommunication

Public safety telecommunication is a highly demanding and challenging profession, requiring exceptional communication skills, critical thinking, and resilience. If you are interested in starting a career in public safety telecommunication, here are some tips:

• Get Educated and Trained: The first step is to complete the necessary education or training programs required by employers.
• Develop Skills: Public safety telecommunication requires many essential skills, such as multitasking, decision making, and teamwork. Develop these skills to prepare yourself for the responsibilities of the job.
• Apply for Jobs: Search for job vacancies in public safety telecommunication and apply through the established application process.
• Prepare for the Interview: If you are shortlisted for an interview, prepare adequately and research the specific duties and responsibilities related to the position. Show that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the job.

Public safety telecommunicators play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of citizens by responding quickly and accurately to emergency situations. The job level for this occupation ranges from Level 03 to Not able to be leveled, with the US national average salary ranging from $38,188.80 to $55,619.20.

The effects of union on this job can be seen in the salary data, with unionized public safety telecommunicators earning on average $55,203.20 compared to nonunion workers earning $42,764.80.

When considering geography, the highest average salary for this occupation is found in the New York-Newark-Jersey City area, while the lowest average salary is found in Mississippi. It is important to note, however, that salary ranges can vary within each geography based on job level and unionization.

Overall, public safety telecommunicators are essential members of the emergency response team and their compensation should reflect the critical nature of their work.