Public Safety Dispatcher Jobs in Texas
Public Safety Dispatcher jobs in Texas are in strong and consistent demand, concentrated in municipal 911 centers, county sheriff offices, and state agency communications hubs, with openings from entry-level call-taker roles through senior lead dispatcher positions. The heaviest hiring is in Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio, where large operations like the Houston Emergency Center, Dallas Police Department, and Bexar County Sheriff's Office maintain significant dispatcher workforces. The most sought-after specialties in Texas are emergency 911 dispatch, police and fire communications, and EMS coordination. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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See related jobsHourly Range: Hourly wage commensurate with experience and certifications.
About SMU: SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities – from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.
About Department: The mission of the SMU Police Department is to maintain a working partnership with all members of the Campus Community to preserve life, maintain human rights, protect property, and promote the educational objectives of Southern Methodist University. The men and women of the SMU Police Department believe in a shared responsibility with our community to create a secure and inclusive environment that promotes and supports the educational process.
About the Position: The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator- Basic will have a wide range of responsibilities performed both independently and as part of a team. Primary duties include transmitting and receiving communications through the police radio system and managing a multi-line telephone system. The role also involves monitoring campus-wide fire and intrusion alarms and initiating appropriate response actions. Additional responsibilities include collecting and recording payments for fingerprinting services and bond transactions, addressing complaints and inquiries, and preparing detailed reports. The position requires proficient operation of various computer systems, including surveillance cameras, voice recording equipment, records management systems, and nationwide databases. This is classified as an "On Campus Essential" position.
Essential Functions:
- Receives complaints and inquiries from members of the university community by telephone, email, or in person at the service window. After assessing the information provided, the dispatcher deploys police, fire, or emergency medical services as appropriate using the radio communication system.
- Maintains a computer-based log of all police activities. They document service calls and radio communications from officers in the CAD system and use the system to determine whether an officer has had prior interactions with a specific individual or vehicle. Additional responsibilities include submitting reports and updating reference manual.
- Responsible for managing multiple computer systems, including a CCTV network with more than 2,000 cameras, fire and security alarm monitoring systems, 911 services, and a police blotter.
- Collects and records payments for fingerprints, reports, and notary services.
- Oversees and maintains all equipment within the emergency communication center to guarantee reliability and continuity of emergency response operations. This includes conducting regular inspections and reporting any malfunctions or technical issues to ensure all systems and devices remain fully operational at all times.
- Must be available to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays, as assigned. The SMU Police Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Education and Experience: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate's degree is preferred. A minimum of one year of experience in a high-volume customer service environment is required, preferably in a dispatch center and/or security setting.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator should possess excellent verbal communication skills, the ability to speak clearly and interact effectively in all circumstances. They must also show sound decision-making capabilities, problem-solving skills, and maintain composure while handling stressful situations. Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills. Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills. Ability to obtain TCOLE Telecommunications Operator License within 1 year of employment is required. Proficiency in utilizing Windows computer operating system and the Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, and Outlook) is required. Knowledge of records management systems is preferred. Preference will be given to candidates familiar with law enforcement terminology and procedures.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Physical:
- Sit for long periods of time
- Bend
- Reach above shoulders
- Handle objects (dexterity)
- Carry/lift over 25-50 lbs.
- Kneel
- Stand
- Push/Pull
Environmental:
- Exposure to excessive noise
- Around moving machinery
- Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity
- Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, radiation, microwave
- Drives motorized equipment
- Work in confined quarters
Deadline to Apply: Deadline date
EEO Statement: SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits: SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.
Primary Location USA-TX-Dallas
Job Public Safety
Organization Police Department
Schedule Regular
Shift Staff
Employee Status Entry Level
Job Type Full-time
Job Level Variable
Travel No
Job Posting Dec 5, 2025, 5:07:59 PM
Hourly Range: Hourly wage commensurate with experience and certifications.
About SMU: SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities – from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.
About Department: The mission of the SMU Police Department is to maintain a working partnership with all members of the Campus Community to preserve life, maintain human rights, protect property, and promote the educational objectives of Southern Methodist University. The men and women of the SMU Police Department believe in a shared responsibility with our community to create a secure and inclusive environment that promotes and supports the educational process.
About the Position: The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator- Basic will have a wide range of responsibilities performed both independently and as part of a team. Primary duties include transmitting and receiving communications through the police radio system and managing a multi-line telephone system. The role also involves monitoring campus-wide fire and intrusion alarms and initiating appropriate response actions. Additional responsibilities include collecting and recording payments for fingerprinting services and bond transactions, addressing complaints and inquiries, and preparing detailed reports. The position requires proficient operation of various computer systems, including surveillance cameras, voice recording equipment, records management systems, and nationwide databases. This is classified as an "On Campus Essential" position.
Essential Functions:
- Receives complaints and inquiries from members of the university community by telephone, email, or in person at the service window. After assessing the information provided, the dispatcher deploys police, fire, or emergency medical services as appropriate using the radio communication system.
- Maintains a computer-based log of all police activities. They document service calls and radio communications from officers in the CAD system and use the system to determine whether an officer has had prior interactions with a specific individual or vehicle. Additional responsibilities include submitting reports and updating reference manual.
- Responsible for managing multiple computer systems, including a CCTV network with more than 2,000 cameras, fire and security alarm monitoring systems, 911 services, and a police blotter.
- Collects and records payments for fingerprints, reports, and notary services.
- Oversees and maintains all equipment within the emergency communication center to guarantee reliability and continuity of emergency response operations. This includes conducting regular inspections and reporting any malfunctions or technical issues to ensure all systems and devices remain fully operational at all times.
- Must be available to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays, as assigned. The SMU Police Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Education and Experience: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate's degree is preferred. A minimum of one year of experience in a high-volume customer service environment is required, preferably in a dispatch center and/or security setting.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator should possess excellent verbal communication skills, the ability to speak clearly and interact effectively in all circumstances. They must also show sound decision-making capabilities, problem-solving skills, and maintain composure while handling stressful situations. Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills. Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills. Ability to obtain TCOLE Telecommunications Operator License within 1 year of employment is required. Proficiency in utilizing Windows computer operating system and the Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, and Outlook) is required. Knowledge of records management systems is preferred. Preference will be given to candidates familiar with law enforcement terminology and procedures.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Physical:
- Sit for long periods of time
- Bend
- Reach above shoulders
- Handle objects (dexterity)
- Carry/lift over 25-50 lbs.
- Kneel
- Stand
- Push/Pull
Environmental:
- Exposure to excessive noise
- Around moving machinery
- Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity
- Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, radiation, microwave
- Drives motorized equipment
- Work in confined quarters
Deadline to Apply: Deadline date
EEO Statement: SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits: SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.
Primary Location USA-TX-Dallas
Job Public Safety
Organization Police Department
Schedule Regular
Shift Staff
Employee Status Entry Level
Job Type Full-time
Job Level Variable
Travel No
Job Posting Dec 5, 2025, 5:07:59 PM
See All 5 Public Safety Dispatcher Jobs in Texas
Find roles in Texas that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Public Safety Dispatcher JobsPublic Safety Dispatcher Jobs by City in Texas
Where Texas roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Public Safety Dispatcher Job Market in Texas
A snapshot from current Texas openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Southern Methodist University4
- Houston Methodist1
Top Industries Hiring
- Education4
- Non-Profit & Social Services4
- Healthcare & Medical Services1
What Texas Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in public safety dispatcher jobs across Texas.
- TCOLE certification or eligibility to obtain Texas Commission on Law Enforcement dispatcher certification
- Ability to type at least 35 words per minute with high accuracy under pressure
- High school diploma or GED equivalent required by most Texas hiring agencies
- Prior customer service, call center, or emergency communications experience preferred
- Completion of or eligibility for a Texas Basic Telecommunicator course at a licensed training academy
- Ability to pass a thorough background investigation, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam
Public Safety Dispatcher Jobs in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a public safety dispatcher in Texas?
To become a public safety dispatcher in Texas, you must obtain certification through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, known as TCOLE. Most agencies require completion of a Basic Telecommunicator course at a TCOLE-licensed academy before or shortly after hiring. A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum education requirement. Many Texas departments hire candidates without prior experience and provide in-house academy training as part of the onboarding process.
How much do public safety dispatchers make in Texas?
Public safety dispatchers in Texas earn a median of about $50,040 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $37,950 for the lowest 10% to over $64,190 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire public safety dispatchers in Texas?
Employers hiring public safety dispatchers in Texas right now include Southern Methodist University and Houston Methodist, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Texas's large municipal governments, county sheriff departments, and regional emergency communications districts are among the most active and consistent sources of full-time dispatcher openings across the state.
Which Texas cities have the most public safety dispatcher jobs?
Dallas and Houston have the most public safety dispatcher openings in Texas. Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth lead because of their population size and the scale of their municipal 911 centers, while San Antonio's concentration of military installations, a large county sheriff operation, and a major city police department creates steady additional demand that makes it a consistent hiring market alongside the two largest metros.
Are there remote public safety dispatcher jobs in Texas?
Yes, but they're rare. Public safety dispatching is inherently an on-site role because it requires secure, redundant communications infrastructure and real-time coordination with field units. About 0% of public safety dispatcher openings tied to Texas are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, and those positions tend to be in administrative communications support, non-emergency call handling, or dispatch quality assurance rather than active 911 operations.
How can I get hired as a public safety dispatcher in Texas with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying directly to a municipal or county agency that runs its own in-house training academy, such as the Houston Emergency Center or large county sheriff offices, which regularly hire candidates with no prior dispatch experience and put them through TCOLE-certified Basic Telecommunicator training on the clock. Lateral moves from adjacent roles like police records clerk, call center representative, or military communications specialist are common ways candidates build the profile agencies look for. Completing a Basic Telecommunicator course independently at a TCOLE-licensed school before applying gives candidates a clear competitive edge.
Where can I find and apply to public safety dispatcher jobs in Texas?
You can find and apply to public safety dispatcher jobs in Texas on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring across the state. Search the available roles, find ones that match your experience and location, and apply directly to the positions that fit.
See All 5 Public Safety Dispatcher Jobs in Texas
Find roles in Texas that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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