Communications Officer (Police and Fire Dispatcher/911 Call-Taker)

Published: 6/14/2022

Job Description

The Town of Falmouth is hiring full-time Communications Officers (Police and Fire Dispatchers/911 Call-Takers) to join our Emergency Communications Center. These positions are the first point of contact for emergency and non-emergency calls and help coordinate the response from Police, Fire, EMS, and other Town services.

Experienced Dispatchers: May start at up to $39.08 per hour (Step 8), with vacation benefits that reflect their dispatch experience. We are proud of having built a people-focused Emergency Communications Center that includes per diem dispatcher and Police Officer support for open overtime shifts, so mandatory overtime is limited. Voluntary overtime opportunities are available.

New to Dispatch: No prior dispatch experience is required, and training starts at $30.72 per hour (Step 1). The hourly rate increases to $31.80 per hour (Step 2) once cleared to count toward minimum staffing, with eligibility for annual advancement along the 9-step pay scale.

Schedule: Communications Officers work a schedule of 4 days on, 2 days off, on one of the following shifts, bid by seniority: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., 3 p.m. – 11 p.m., or 11 p.m. – 7 a.m. Candidates must be able to work all shifts, including evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. A minimum of two Communications Officers are assigned to each shift.

Key Responsibilities: Under the general direction of the Emergency Communications Director, Communications Officers:

Answer 911 emergency and non-emergency calls and determine the appropriate response using the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems;
Dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, Marine Services, Public Works, and other Town personnel;
Provide Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) instructions as applicable;
Monitor radio communications, alarms, and public safety systems;
Maintain accurate and complete records in the CAD systems;
Coordinate multi-agency responses and support field personnel in real time;
Assist the public and direct inquiries to appropriate Town resources; and
Perform other duties as assigned or as required.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or equivalent; or an equivalent combination of education, training, or experience which demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. This position requires strong computer and communication skills, the ability to multitask and think critically, and the ability to remain calm, focused, and compassionate in high-pressure situations.

As one of the first steps in the review process, all applicants must complete a computerized pre-employment skills assessment that measures job-related skills such as data entry, multitasking, listening accuracy, and decision-making. The assessment pertains to transferable skill sets, so no prior dispatch experience is required to take it.

Candidates who receive a conditional offer must successfully complete a comprehensive background check conducted by the Falmouth Police Department, a pre-employment physical examination, and a pre-employment drug screening.

Additional Compensation and Benefits: Communications Officers enjoy opportunities for voluntary overtime, holiday pay, floating holidays, uniform allowance, shift differentials, trainers’ pay, and professional development opportunities.

These positions are eligible for comprehensive benefits, including vacation/sick/personal leave; Town contribution of up to 75% of the cost of health insurance; cost-effective dental, vision, life insurance, and disability policy plans; enrollment in the defined benefit pension plan; and voluntary pre-tax and Roth 457(b) plans.

Preference Date to Apply: Monday, November 23, 2026 by 4:30 p.m. The positions will remain open until filled, but candidates who apply by the above date and time will be given preference over later applications. Candidates are strongly encouraged to upload a cover letter and resume with their application.

How to Apply: Please submit an online application via the Town of Falmouth Employment page at: https://www.falmouthma.gov/723/EmploymentCurrent-Job-Openings

About the Town of Falmouth as an Employer: The Town of Falmouth is a people-centered municipality committed to public service excellence. We strive to foster an inclusive and supportive work culture grounded in professionalism, collaboration, and accountability, and we invest in our employees through ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. The Town offers competitive compensation, and benefit-eligible positions offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance and other valuable benefits, and include participation in the Town's pension plan. All applicants must be able to interact and work effectively and respectfully with individuals and groups of various abilities, cultures, backgrounds, ages, and identities.

\nCompany Description

Located on the southwest tip of Cape Cod, Falmouth is a vibrant coastal community comprised of eight villages and seven historic districts. With a year-round population of approximately 32,500 that nearly triples during the summer season, Falmouth offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, historic charm, civic engagement, and organizational excellence. The Town strives to be a premier Cape community that provides a responsive, accessible, and inclusive environment for all.