Dispatchers
(NOC 1525)
in All Business, Finance, and AdministrationDispatchers use radios and other telecommunication equipment to dispatch emergency vehicles and to coordinate the activities of drivers and other personnel. They work for police, fire and health departments, other emergency service agencies, taxi, delivery and courier services, trucking and utilities companies, and other commercial and industrial companies.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to remain largely the same over the next few years. With a moderate percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to contribute somewhat to employment opportunities over the coming years. Dispatchers most commonly work full-time hours.
The median employment income for 67% of Dispatchers who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $45,474. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$12.95
Minimum$19.90
Median$28.85
MaximumAnnual Pay
$12,675
Minimum$40,464
Median$76,108
MaximumCompared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
Hourly Pay
$14.00
Minimum$27.85
Median$38.46
MaximumAnnual Pay
$6,754
Minimum$36,515
Median$70,271
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Dispatchers use radios and other telecommunication equipment to dispatch emergency vehicles and to coordinate the activities of drivers and other personnel. They work for police, fire and health departments, other emergency service agencies, taxi, delivery and courier services, trucking and utilities companies, and other commercial and industrial companies.
Job duties
Dispatchers:
- Receive requests for emergency assistance or service and contact ambulances, police and fire departments, tow-trucks, and utility crews.
- Process and transmit information and instructions to coordinate the activities of vehicle operators, crews and equipment using computer-aided communications and dispatching equipment.
- Dispatch workers according to written schedules and work orders, or as necessary by emergency situations.
- Advise vehicle operators of route and traffic problems like construction, accidents, congestion, weather conditions, weight and size restrictions and other information.
- Use radio equipment to communicate with ships, aircraft, mining crews, offshore oil rigs, logging camps and other remote operations.
- Monitor personnel workloads and locations.
- Maintain vehicle operator work records and make sure time sheets and payroll summaries are accurately completed.
- Maintain records of mileage, fuel use, repairs, and other expenses and generate reports.
Sample job titles
- 911 dispatcher
- alarm system dispatcher
- emergency medical dispatcher
- mail service dispatcher
- maintenance services dispatcher
- motor vehicle dispatcher
- police department dispatcher
- radio operator
- utilities maintenance crew dispatcher
- yard clerk
Skills
You must be organized and pay attention to detail. Your work must be accurate. Good communication skills are important. You need to be able to work as part of a team. Computer skills and the ability to work with technology may be helpful. Emergency dispatchers must be able to work in a high-stress environment.
Job requirements
- High school is required.
- Police and emergency dispatchers need to complete formal on-the-job training. Other dispatchers usually complete some informal on-the-job training.
- Police and emergency dispatchers and other radio operators usually need provincial radio operator's certificates.
Other considerations
None
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Southern
Cape Breton
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Public administration
Transportation and warehousing
Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services
Health care and social assistance
Retail trade
What is the age of Employment?
35-44
45-54
55-64
25-34
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
65+
Top levels of education
High school
$35,513 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$40,691 median annual incomeBachelor
$47,993 median annual incomeLess than high school
$44,665 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$53,292 median annual incomeCompared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
College Diploma
$36,304 median annual incomeHigh school
$32,903 median annual incomeBachelor
$41,755 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$34,807 median annual incomeLess than high school
$23,174 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramThe Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Various, NS
Various, NS
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.