Fort Walton Beach hires emergency dispatchers with pay increases after certification
Fort Walton Beach, Florida – When an emergency call comes in, the person answering may have only seconds to understand what happened, calm the caller and send officers in the right direction. Fort Walton Beach is now looking for people willing to take on that responsibility.
The Fort Walton Beach Police Department is hiring dispatchers for its Communications Team, offering full- and part-time positions built around 12-hour shifts. The department is seeking applicants who can remain steady under pressure and become a clear, reliable voice during stressful situations.
Trainees will start at $18.93 per hour, with pay increasing to $20.36 per hour after certification. Full-time employees are also eligible for healthcare and dental coverage, paid time off and a retirement plan.
The position involves much more than answering phones. Dispatchers receive incoming calls, gather essential information, evaluate each situation and determine the appropriate response. They also use public safety radios to communicate with police personnel and may operate radio and computer equipment in the emergency command center during disasters or other mobilizations.
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Some callers may be frightened, confused, angry or hostile. Dispatchers must be able to handle those conversations professionally while continuing to collect accurate details. The work also includes updating databases, maintaining records and logs, filing documents, preparing supplemental reports and protecting the security of the communications room.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Florida driver’s license. One year of experience using a two-way communication telephone system is preferred. The selected employee will also be required to obtain Florida’s 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator certification.
Because the job is performed inside a communications office where emergencies can unfold without warning, strong written and verbal communication skills are essential. Candidates should also be comfortable following complex instructions, working with computers and communications equipment, serving the public and learning Fort Walton Beach streets and landmarks.
The dispatcher reports directly to the Communications Supervisor and works as part of the Police Department. For people who want a public-service career without working on patrol, the position offers a direct role in helping officers respond and keeping residents informed when every second matters.
Applications and additional position details are available through the City of Fort Walton Beach employment portal.
