Become a Public Safety Dispatcher

The Public Safety Dispatcher serves as a critical communications link between the public and emergency response personnel. This position is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, coordinating and dispatching law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services (EMS), and other public safety resources, and maintaining accurate records while operating in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Receive, prioritize, and process emergency and non-emergency calls for service
• Dispatch law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other public safety units using radio and computer-aided dispatch systems
• Gather, document, and relay critical information accurately and efficiently
• Monitor radio traffic and maintain situational awareness during incidents
• Enter and retrieve data from law enforcement databases
• Maintain detailed logs and records of calls and actions taken
• Provide calm, professional guidance to callers during emergencies
• Coordinate multi-agency emergency response

Required Qualifications

• 18 years of age
• High school diploma or GED
• No criminal record
• Type at least 40 words per minute
• Pass the National Dispatcher Selection Test
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multitask in high-pressure environment
• Pass background investigation
• Pass drug screening
• Hearing and speech requirements met
• Interview and assessment required

Compensation & Benefits

Pay Rates

• Uncertified: $48,900.80
• Certified: $61,776.00
• Senior Pay (4+ Years): $65,228.80

Key Benefits

• Health Insurance — Effective Day One — immediate coverage with low employee premiums and strong County contribution
• PERS Retirement Plan (Pension) — guaranteed lifetime income with 18%+ employer contribution
• Paid Parental Leave — dedicated time to support your family after the birth or adoption of a child
• Paid Vacation & Sick Leave — structured leave supporting recovery, work-life balance, and longevity
• Professional Development Funding — ongoing training, certifications, and advancement support
• Tuition Reimbursement (After 2 Years) — continue your education with agency-backed financial assistance
• Comprehensive Benefits Package — medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and supplemental coverage

View the full Benefits & Compensation breakdown →

What are the requirements to become a 911 Dispatcher in DeSoto County?

Requirements include: 18 years of age, high school diploma or GED, no criminal record, ability to type at least 40 words per minute, pass the National Dispatcher Selection Test, strong communication skills, ability to multitask in high-pressure environments, and pass background investigation and drug screening.

What is the salary for a Dispatcher in DeSoto County?

Dispatcher pay rates: Uncertified starts at $48,900.80, Certified dispatchers earn $61,776.00, and Senior Pay (4+ years) earns $65,228.80 annually.

What benefits do DeSoto County dispatchers receive?

Benefits include health insurance from day one, PERS retirement plan, tuition reimbursement after 2 years, paid parental leave, paid vacation and sick leave, professional development opportunities, and career advancement opportunities.