what is a dispatcher?
A dispatcher works in an organization's communications department. Your job as a dispatcher is to receive and pass information to different people. As a dispatcher, you coordinate operations with customers and drivers to help ensure that drivers deliver services on time.
Dispatchers carry out many duties. For instance, you respond to non-emergency and emergency calls from your company's drivers and customers. You also track the vehicles transporting goods to different places and pass messages to customers. When working for a company that supplies products, you send and receive product orders.
As a dispatcher, you work in various organizations. For instance, you can work for the police force or a transport or utility company. You may also work in emergency services or for a taxi company.
When you work in emergency services, it is crucial to stay calm and collect vital information to determine the severity of a situation. The role requires excellent communication and decision-making skills since you weigh a situation and send the appropriate team to assist the caller. Communication skills help you instruct callers as they wait for police officers or paramedics.
Would working as a dispatcher suit your interest in helping people? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a dispatcher role.
dispatcher jobs near youaverage dispatcher salary
The average annual salary of a dispatcher is $46,670, or $22.44 an hour. However, it is important to bear in mind that the average dispatcher salary can vary greatly based on area of specialization, level of experience, and the city or state in which you work.
For example, emergency or 911 dispatchers in the United States have a median annual salary of $41,843 with $33,056 on the lower end, and $52,480 on the higher end. On the other hand, truck dispatchers earn a median salary of $53,077, with $38,760 on the lower end and $70,580 on the higher end. Flight dispatchers enjoy a median salary of $59,065, with $39,975 on the lower end and $84,515 on the higher end.
factors influencing a dispatcher's earnings
There can be quite a lot of variance in the salary of a dispatcher. Your area of specialization, qualifications, work experience, certifications (if any are applicable) and tenure on the job may all factor into your end compensation.
The industry sector and employer also influence your salary. For instance, working in transportation and private security companies has a different salary structure than working for the government.
A dispatcher's salary varies depending on the area of specialization. If you work as a flight or truck dispatcher, you will earn more than emergency dispatchers. Your qualifications and work experience also influence your compensation package. Your salary scale is different if you have specific qualifications or certifications since you can negotiate higher pay. The additional skills you possess improve your earning potential.
The industry sector and the employer also influence your salary. For instance, working in transportation and private security companies has a different salary structure than working for the government.
types of dispatchers
Some of the types of dispatchers include:
- emergency dispatchers: As an emergency dispatcher, you handle cases associated with public safety. The role usually covers police, firefighters and emergency medical dispatchers. Your job is to obtain information from callers and dispatch the appropriate units to offer assistance. You also talk callers through life-saving medical procedures and safety tips.
- transportation and service dispatchers: Transport companies rely on dispatchers to respond to service calls and organize transport schedules for various deliveries. You monitor the delivery of materials and coordinate pickups and drops. If you work for a water or gas company, you receive calls for emergency assistance with utilities.
- flight dispatchers: As a flight dispatcher, you are responsible for monitoring and planning an aircraft's journey. You are in charge of the flight's safety and have the authority to delay, cancel or divert a flight for safety reasons.
working as a dispatcher
As a dispatcher, you perform various roles in different business sectors. Here are more details on the tasks and work environments of dispatchers:
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dispatcher job description
The huge variety of duties for dispatchers depends on the industry in which they work. However, there are some commonalities in the tasks. Some of the typical duties include:
- route planning: Dispatchers use logistics programs and mapping software to plan the routes drivers will use when picking up shipments and delivering products. These programs help determine road conditions and the most efficient routes. After deciding on the routes, dispatchers share the information with drivers.
- monitoring a driver's location: Dispatchers monitor the whereabouts of drivers sent to pick up shipments or to deliver goods. As a dispatcher, you use GPS devices to ascertain drivers' locations. Knowing the locations helps you plan routes and tell customers how far away the drivers are.
- acting as intermediaries: Dispatchers act as intermediaries between customers and drivers by relaying messages between them. For instance, you would relay information concerning a customer's pickup or delivery instructions to a driver. You also tell customers the whereabouts of the drivers.
- resolving logistical problems: Logistical problems often occur when drivers are on their way to pick up shipments or deliver goods or services. Dispatchers try to resolve logistical problems to ensure delays do not happen. For instance, if drivers get stuck in heavy traffic, you can use GPS applications to determine the routes with less traffic.
- writing reports: Whether you are an emergency or transport dispatcher, you write detailed reports. Your reports can assist in facilitating investigations of various incidents. You keep a record of incidents and phone calls for future reference.
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work environment
Dispatchers usually work inside offices or communication centers. You answer calls from your desk and use computers to record communication updates. Some dispatchers work in specific companies and are knowledgeable about the company's products. This knowledge helps them answer any questions that customers ask.
Some dispatchers work in police stations. These dispatchers know where police officers are and what areas to dispatch them to. Other dispatchers work on educational sites where they instruct security guards and send them out to handle incidents on campus. Since your role is office-based, you can work from home or remotely, receiving calls and dispatching teams.
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who are your colleagues?
Whether you work in transportation or emergency response, your colleagues may include care assistants, paramedics, security officers and police officers. You also work with emergency care assistants and patient transport service controllers as well as other specialists that could include logistics managers, store managers and warehouse workers.
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work schedule
Dispatchers work in shifts. The length of these shifts depends on the place where you are working. For instance, when working as a public safety dispatcher in a city, you work for 12 hours a day. In a week, you work three 12-hour shifts. It may also be necessary to work during bank holidays, weekends, early mornings and evenings.
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job outlook
Dispatchers are always in demand due to their support of law enforcement officers and paramedics. In addition, the transport and logistics industry is constantly increasing the demand for dispatchers.
There are exciting career prospects in transportation, utilities and public safety. When you progress to supervisory roles, you can manage emergency responses. Some dispatchers move to field duties and join response teams. Others move to managerial roles like logistics management.
For emergency-related dispatching jobs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the job growth outlook for emergency dispatchers to be 4% between 2021 and 2031, which is about the average rate of growth for jobs in other sectors.
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benefits of working for randstad as a dispatcher
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a dispatcher is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
dispatcher skills and education
Some of the qualifications of a dispatcher include:
- education: You will need a high school diploma or GED, at a minimum, for most dispatcher jobs. However, fresh dispatchers will undergo lengthy on-the-job training to cement the ins and outs of their duties. As an emergency dispatcher, in particular, you will need to obtain CPR and other kinds of certifications. Some dispatchers may prefer candidates with higher levels of education, such as a degree in communications or some college credits.
- testing: Candidates for dispatcher jobs must undergo psychiatric evaluations as well as testing for computer and keyboarding skills.
- background checks: Candidates must also pass criminal background checks and checks that look into credit reports, court records and prior employment information, although the nature of these checks may vary by locality.
skills and competencies
Some skills of a dispatcher include:
- communication skills: It is crucial to communicate with people. That means you require good communication skills. For instance, you should listen keenly and speak clearly. It is also important to use a friendly tone to encourage people to continue talking to you.
- problem-solving skills: You encounter many issues that require creative solutions, so problem-solving skills are central for dispatchers. When you have these skills, you analyze problems, determine the sources and find solutions.
- keyboarding skills: As a dispatcher, you type on your computer keyboard throughout the day. You need keyboarding skills to ensure you do not have difficulty doing this. These skills improve your speed and typing accuracy.
- directional skills: It is crucial to know your area of jurisdiction, including major routes and landmarks. Directional skills help you determine the location of a caller from simple descriptions. They are also essential for directing emergency response teams.
- compassion: A dispatcher is naturally compassionate and comfortable talking to stressed and panicked callers. When you empathize with the caller, you reassure them and help calm them down.
FAQs about working as a dispatcher
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about dispatchers.
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what does a dispatcher do?
Dispatchers are responsible for getting your message to the right people, whether it is the police, fire department, or ambulance. When you dial 911, you will connect with an emergency dispatcher who is trained to handle stressful situations efficiently. But not all dispatchers handle emergencies. Some take care of non-urgent calls and coordinate the movements of people and equipment for organizations. Crisis or not, dispatchers need to pay close attention to details and communicate effectively with different people.
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what skills do you need as a dispatcher?
Dispatchers must be great at talking to people and handling tough situations, whether it is an emergency or not. When things get hectic, dispatchers need to stay calm and think fast to make the best decisions. They must be good at organizing their time and prioritizing tasks, especially when emergencies come up. Dispatchers must be able to work under pressure and be especially quick on a keyboard.
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what kind of education, certifications and training do you need as a dispatcher?
The education and certification requirements for dispatchers can vary depending on the employer and the type of dispatching job. Generally, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED). Some employers may prefer candidates with additional education or training in communications, emergency management or a related field. Many dispatchers also complete on-the-job training programs that cover topics such as radio communication, call handling and emergency response protocols.
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is being a dispatcher a difficult job?
Being a dispatcher can be a demanding job at times, but it is certainly a rewarding one. Dispatchers often work in high-pressure environments and are responsible for coordinating emergency response teams and communicating with individuals in distress.
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what makes a dispatcher good at their job?
Dispatchers who are good at their jobs will have clear communication skills, quick thinking skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure. They will know the ins and outs of their company's protocols and procedures, and, under certain circumstances, be able to provide medical assistance when needed. But beyond all the technical abilities, a great dispatcher is able to balance empathy and compassion with professionalism and objectivity.
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how do I become a dispatcher?
To become a dispatcher, you typically need a high school diploma or an equivalent. Some employers may prefer or require additional education or training in a relevant field, such as emergency management or communications. Many dispatchers receive on-the-job training, which covers topics such as call handling, radio communication, and emergency response protocols.
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how do I find a job as a dispatcher?
Applying for a dispatcher is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our dispatcher jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state-of-the-art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
