Aptly
Careers · Public Safety Telecommunicators · District of Columbia

Public Safety Telecommunicators in District of Columbia

Public safety telecommunicators operate communication systems to receive emergency calls at 9-1-1 centers and emergency operations facilities. They take information about crimes, fires, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations, then relay details to appropriate responders In District of Columbia the median pay is $59,080 a year, 11% above the national median of $53,040.

$59,080median pay in District of Columbia, per year
$50,650–$64,940middle half earn
60employed in District of Columbia
$53,040U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against public safety telecommunicators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

What it takes

Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most hold a high school diploma.

Skills that matter most

Active ListeningSpeakingSocial PerceptivenessCritical ThinkingCoordinationService OrientationReading ComprehensionJudgment and Decision Making

Knowledge areas

Public Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentEnglish LanguageTelecommunicationsCustomer and Personal ServiceGeography

Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Public Safety Telecommunicators.

Licenses and training in District of Columbia

Public Safety Telecommunicators pay in other states

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against public safety telecommunicators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 43-5031.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, District of Columbia, annual.