Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Emergency Dispatcher is a crucial link between the public and emergency services, responsible for receiving and processing calls for emergency assistance. They quickly assess situations and dispatch appropriate emergency services, such as police, fire, or medical services.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: 3.4% (average)
Annual job openings: 10,700
Direct AI exposure: 44% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 75% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $53K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $37K per year | $45K per year | $53K per year | $64K per year | $80K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $2.06K above the national average. | ||||
Emergency Dispatchers typically work in communication centers, also known as Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). They work in a highly stressful environment, managing multiple communication channels. The role often requires working in shifts, covering 24/7 operations, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Emergency Dispatchers serve as a vital part of the emergency response system. They must make quick, accurate assessments of incoming calls to determine the nature of the emergency and the appropriate response. This role requires excellent communication skills, as dispatchers must extract critical information from callers, often in distressing situations, and relay clear instructions to emergency responders.
The job demands a high level of emotional stability and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Dispatchers must be adept at multitasking and using various communication and computer systems. They play a critical role in ensuring public safety by efficiently managing response times and resources.
Career progression can include supervisory roles, training and quality assurance, or specialization in a specific area of emergency dispatch. This occupation can be incredibly fulfilling for those with a strong desire to help others and contribute to community safety.
A high school diploma or GED is usually required. Additional specialized training, such as certification in Emergency Medical Dispatching (EMD), is often provided by employers. Some positions may require additional education or certifications in public safety or emergency management.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
