What is a dispatcher?
A dispatcher is like the brain of an organization, making sure everything from people to vehicles is where it needs to be, especially during emergencies. They work in different areas like emergency services, delivery, and transport. Their main job is to make sure everything runs smoothly and quickly, which is super important for safety and keeping things moving.
Duties and responsibilities
- Handling calls and messages: Dispatchers answer calls and get details about what’s needed, like sending ambulances to an accident or trucks to deliver goods.
- Managing resources: They keep track of where vehicles and teams are and update everyone on any changes.
- Giving directions: Sometimes they help drivers find the best routes or deal with changes on the go.
Work environment
In emergency services, it’s a fast-paced job where they need to think fast and handle lots of information at once. They work surrounded by big screens and radios. In other jobs like logistics, it’s more about planning and making sure schedules are followed.
Typical work hours
Dispatchers often work in shifts because they need to be available all the time, even at night or on holidays. In some industries, like construction, they might work usual day hours, but sometimes they need to stay longer to handle surprises.
How to become a dispatcher
Becoming a dispatcher means you get to be the person who sends help where it’s needed. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Finish high school
You need a basic education (high school diploma or GED) because you’ll be doing stuff like keeping records and communicating a lot.
Step 2: Gain some experience
Work in jobs like customer service or office admin first. These jobs teach you how to juggle different tasks, solve problems, and talk to people clearly—all important for dispatchers.
Step 3: Go to vocational or community college
It’s not always needed, but taking extra courses on things like transportation or emergency responses at a local college can make you stand out when you’re looking for dispatcher jobs.
Step 4: Get certified
Some special dispatcher jobs, like in emergencies or flying, might need specific certificates to show you know your stuff.
Step 5: Build your skills
Be good at handling lots of tasks at once, making quick decisions, and solving problems on the fly.
Step 6: Apply for dispatcher jobs
Make sure your resume shows off any relevant experience, skills, and any certificates you’ve picked up.
Step 7: Ace the interview
Learn about the company and think about how you’ve handled tough situations before. This is your chance to show you’re the right person for the job by talking about your experience and how you stay calm and organized.
How much do dispatchers make?
Compensation for dispatchers varies by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The nature and volume of calls or deliveries to be managed can also significantly impact their pay rates.
Highest paying industries
- Coal Mining: $68,420
- Oil and Gas Extraction: $66,960
- Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing: $64,890
- Postal Services: $63,420
- Computer and Electronics Manufacturing: $62,330
Highest paying states
- Alaska: $50,310
- Washington: $48,940
- California: $48,320
- Nevada: $47,800
- Connecticut: $47,070
The average national salary for a Dispatcher is:
$43,870
Types of dispatchers
Dispatchers are like the control center for different jobs. Here are some of the main types:
Emergency services dispatcher
These dispatchers handle calls for emergencies and send out police, firefighters, or paramedics. They might even help you with first aid over the phone until help arrives.
Freight dispatcher
In the world of shipping and deliveries, these dispatchers plan how to get goods from one place to another using big trucks. They organize the routes, trucks, and drivers to make sure everything runs on time and doesn’t cost too much.
Taxi dispatcher
If you’ve ever taken a taxi, a dispatcher was probably behind the scenes. They assign taxis to people who need rides, talk with drivers, and help fix any issues that come up to keep things moving smoothly.
Tow truck dispatcher
These dispatchers are all about roadside help. If a car breaks down or there’s a crash, they send tow trucks to the scene. They make sure drivers know where to go and that people get help fast.
Airline dispatcher
Airline dispatchers take care of the details on the ground so flights can take off and land safely. They work with pilots, check the weather, and make sure all the flight rules are followed.
Top skills for dispatchers
Becoming a great dispatcher means you need some key skills to handle everything that comes your way. Here’s what you need to be good at:
Great communication
You need to talk clearly and listen well because you’ll be giving out instructions and getting updates from people like drivers or emergency workers. Whether you’re texting, talking, or typing, you have to be quick and clear.
Calmness under pressure
Things can get pretty hectic. Whether it’s an emergency or just a really busy day, being able to stay chill and make smart choices when things get wild is super important.
Quick problem-solving
Problems? You’ll need to solve them fast. This means thinking on your feet and making quick decisions that make the most sense based on what’s happening at the moment.
Tech savvy
You’ll use a lot of tech tools like dispatching software and GPS. Being comfortable with tech and able to handle small glitches or learn new systems quickly is a must.
Detail-oriented
You have to keep an eye on lots of little things all at once. Missing a small detail can mean big problems, so it’s key to notice everything that’s going on.
Looking for a new job?
Browse our national database of dispatcher job openings and apply today
Dispatcher career path
tarting as a dispatcher opens up several cool opportunities to move up in your career. Here’s how you can climb the ladder:
Become a supervisor
After you’ve got some experience, you could become the boss of other dispatchers. This means you make sure everything at the dispatch center runs smoothly.
Move up to operations manager
Ready for more responsibility? As an operations manager, you’ll look after a whole area or division in a big company, making sure everything works like it should.
Explore specialized roles
- Logistics coordinator: You’ll coordinate dispatch and manage how goods and people move around.
- Transportation manager: You’ll oversee all parts of the transportation process.
- Director of logistics: You get to make big decisions on how things get from point A to point B.
Aim for top positions
If you really want to expand your horizons, you could aim for high-level jobs like emergency management director or public safety director, depending on what you’re interested in.
Similar job titles
Position trends and outlook for dispatchers
The job of a dispatcher is getting more high-tech with cool updates like:
- Digital tech and AI: Dispatchers now use advanced tech like AI to help them respond to emergencies faster and manage resources better. This means they can get help where it’s needed quicker.
- Modern systems: Systems like GIS (geographical information systems) and CAD (computer-aided dispatch) are making dispatching much more efficient. These tools help dispatchers know exactly where to send help and how to get there fast.
Employment projections
Jobs for dispatchers are expected to grow by about 4% through 2031, which is average. But, there are usually more people who want these jobs than there are jobs available, so having experience really helps.
Dispatcher career tips
Stay current with tech
The technology and software you use will change often, so keep up with the latest tools to make your job easier. Attending tech training sessions can help you stay sharp.
Manage stress well
Being a dispatcher can be super stressful, especially in emergencies. Learn ways to stay calm, like practicing mindfulness or staying active, to keep cool under pressure.
Keep improving your multitasking
Your job will often require you to juggle multiple tasks at once. Keep practicing your multitasking skills to stay efficient and make smart decisions quickly.
Network professionally
Knowing people in your field can open doors to new jobs and advice. To connect with others, join groups like:
- The National Emergency Number Association (NENA)
- Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO)
- The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED)
Never stop learning
Always be on the lookout for new info about your job. Whether it’s getting a higher-level certification, joining webinars, or going to conferences, continuous learning keeps you ahead of the curve.
Where the dispatcher jobs are
Top employers
- American Medical Response
- FedEx
- UPS
- XPO Logistics
- Republic Services
Top states
- California
- Florida
- Texas
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Top job sites
- zengig
- Indeed
- Monster
- Simplyhired
FAQs
What kind of training is required for a dispatcher position?
Most jobs require a high school education or equivalent, although some require specialized post-secondary education. Employment in public safety may require the completion of a training program. Many new dispatchers, particularly in fields like police, fire, and emergency services, might expect on-the-job training to familiarize themselves with the specific tools and procedures they’ll be using daily.
What kind of skills does a dispatcher need?
Dispatchers should possess strong communication skills, both oral and written, as their work involves contacting emergency resources or communicating with drivers on their routes. They need to stay calm under stress, think quickly, and respond promptly during emergencies. Problem-solving skills, multitasking ability, and good geographic knowledge are also crucial for this role. Additionally, proficiency with computer systems and software is essential as they often use computer-aided dispatch systems.
What is a typical day like for a dispatcher?
A typical day might start by reviewing the upcoming schedule and confirming assignments. Most of their day will be spent communicating with drivers or other company personnel to coordinate and dispatch vehicles or service personnel, handle changes to schedules or routes, and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations. They may update logs, reports, or databases when not communicating with drivers or perform other administrative tasks.
What are some typical tasks that a dispatcher is responsible for?
Typical responsibilities range from relaying important information to drivers and field personnel, coordinating specific routes, prioritizing tasks based on the urgency of calls, keeping track of vehicles and drivers, ensuring adherence to schedules, resolving scheduling issues as they arise, and maintaining communication logs. In emergencies, they are responsible for connecting the appropriate resources to the site of the incident.
What are the challenges faced by a dispatcher?
Dispatchers often need to handle high-stress situations, deal with emergencies, and coordinate resources under a time crunch. They may also deal with difficult or emotional callers. In non-emergency dispatch roles, complex scheduling, last-minute changes, equipment failures, or driver issues can pose significant challenges. The job generally requires excellent multitasking ability, as dispatchers typically juggle multiple tasks at once.
What types of software tools do dispatchers use?
Dispatchers generally use computer-aided dispatch systems to coordinate and communicate with their teams. Such systems allow them to monitor the location of vehicles or personnel, plan and optimize routes, and maintain communication logs. They may also use other software tools to create and maintain reports, execute administrative tasks, or handle specific needs such as fleet management or customer service.
Should I become a dispatcher if I am good at planning and organizing?
Indeed, having strong planning and organizing skills is highly advantageous in a dispatcher role, as the job typically involves juggling various tasks simultaneously and ensuring everything runs smoothly. However, also remember that dispatching can be a high-pressure and stressful job, especially in emergencies. Therefore, patience, multitasking ability, critical thinking, and excellent communication skills are equally important.
What sectors typically employ dispatchers?
Dispatchers are employed in various sectors, including transportation and logistic companies, emergency services (such as police, fire, and ambulance services), utility companies, and various public and private services companies. They can also be found in industries like taxi and delivery services and any other industry where there is a need to manage the movement of goods or personnel.
Do dispatchers need to have technical knowledge?
Apart from a basic level of computer literacy, the technical knowledge required for dispatchers largely depends on the specific role and industry. For instance, those in a tech company may need technical knowledge relevant to the industry’s operations, whereas those in transportation could benefit from understanding logistics and route planning. Training for the most necessary technical skills is typically provided on the job.
Are there any certifications available for dispatchers?
Yes, certifications are available for dispatchers, and these can vary depending on the field of work. Emergency services dispatchers, for example, can receive a certification from organizations like the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials or the National Emergency Number Association. Similarly, freight dispatchers can get certified by the Transportation Intermediaries Association. While not always required, these certifications can demonstrate their competence and dedication to their profession.