Job Announcement:

If you previously applied within the last six months, you are not eligible to re-apply until six months from that date. Contact 911recruitment@howardcountymd.gov with questions.

DISPATCHER

STARTING SALARY $54,101 (eff. 1/1/2025)

Howard County is hiring for the position of 9-1-1 Dispatcher. Essential duties include taking emergency calls and dispatching Police and Fire (EMS). Customer service and computer experience is desirable. All positions will work the following shifts: two days 7AM to 7PM; two nights 7PM to 7AM; four days off.

Who We Are

Howard County Dispatchers take emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatch police, fire, and EMS from the county’s newly renovated 911 center. We are the public safety answering point 24 hours/day, seven days/week.

To be considered for employment, you must meet the following standards:

• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Possess a clear criminal record
• Must be a Citizen of the United States
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Successful candidates must satisfactorily complete the following: 

1. Apply online and take the virtual assessment 

Create an account on PublicSafetyApp and begin the application process. You will be sent a link for the virtual assessment which you must pass to move on in the process. HCPD uses CritiCall to assess 911 dispatcher candidates on job-related skills. Please visit its website to learn more about the test and how to prepare.

2. Complete a 911 center observation

Once you have passed the virtual assessment, you will be scheduled for an in-person observation of the 911 center. You will be able to meet 911 dispatchers and learn more about the position.

3. Panel interview

Once you have completed your 911 center observation, you will sit for a panel interview to discuss your interest in being a dispatcher, work experiences, skills, and job awareness.

4. Background investigation

A background investigator will conduct various records checks, verify education and work history, and contact you and your listed references.

5. Psychological screening

6. Pre-placement drug screen/hearing test

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Excellent Benefits Include:

Excellent benefits include: health, dental, and life insurance; vacation, disability, personal leave; competitive retirement plan; multi-lingual and specialized training pay. 

The Howard County Police Department is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and an equal employment opportunity agency.

Please direct questions regarding this position to 911recruitment@howardcountymd.gov