Howard County - Dispatcher
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 $55,182 (eff. 1/1/2026)
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
Successful candidates must satisfactorily complete the following:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Background investigation
- A background investigator will conduct various records checks, verify education and work history, and contact you and your listed references.
- Psychological screening
- Pre-placement drug screen/hearing test
Excellent Benefits Include:
Excellent benefits include: health, dental, and life insurance; vacation, disability, personal leave; competitive retirement plan; multi-lingual and specialized training pay.
