I want to work as a 911 dispatcher. What special skills and training do I need? Do you have any openings?

As needs dictate, we occasionally post open positions and run a 911 dispatcher training class. An effective 911 dispatcher must be friendly and well-spoken, possess excellent computer and typing skills, and exhibit an exemplary ability to handle many tasks at once under a great deal of stress. The training class consists of approximately three months worth of intensive classroom and practical instruction, followed by a mentorship program where the new trainees sit with more experienced dispatchers until they are able to perform the job on their own. It's not for everybody, but a career as a 911 dispatcher has a completely unique set of rewards that most of us do not find in other lines of work.


To check for available positions, check Fayette County's Employment Opportunities page.

Show All Answers

1. When should I call 911?
2. What can I do to ensure the fastest possible response?
3. I accidentally dialed 911. What should I do?
4. Why do you ask so many questions when I call?
5. What if I don't have an emergency, but need to reach a police officer, fire department, or ambulance service?
6. Are there times when it's not appropriate to call 911?
7. Don't my address and phone number show up on your caller ID? Why do you have to ask? Doesn't my cell phone tell you my exact location when I call?
8. Why does it take help so long to get here?
9. Is my name going to wind up in the newspaper if I report a crime?
10. Is it true that deactivated cell phones can call 911?
11. Who is answering the phone when I call 911?
12. I have an emergency involving one of my pets. Can you help me?
13. My cat is stuck in a tree! Can you get it down?
14. I want to work as a 911 dispatcher. What special skills and training do I need? Do you have any openings?