Metro Emergency Communications Operator

City of Sioux Falls•City of Sioux Falls, SD

About The Position

Metro Communications is hiring an Emergency Communications Operator to answer emergency and non-emergency calls, determine and prioritize the required response, and coordinate information and dispatch for public safety responders. The position involves monitoring responder locations and status, processing law-enforcement data, maintaining accurate records, and operating telephone, radio, computer, and database systems. Operators may also perform tactical dispatch and training duties as assigned. No prior experience is necessary. The employer provides a six-month paid comprehensive training program. The next recruit class begins February 16, 2027, which is the first paid day of employment. The hiring process includes keyboarding and Listening & Written exams, an interview, a background investigation, and a psychological/medical exam. Day-one 2027 wages are $28.53–$30.93 per hour, depending on incoming 911-type experience. A $3,000 sign-on bonus is offered, and a $0.75-per-hour shift differential applies from 2:00 p.m. to 5:59 a.m., seven days a week. The employer describes access to a live-in support dog, a workout facility, a wellness lab, outdoor break space, and employee well-being support including an EAP, chaplains, and peer support. Career development may include continuous education, committee participation, and opportunities to advance to Shift Lead and supervisory roles.

Requirements

Be eligible for certification under the South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Training Commission.
Be a United States citizen.
Be at least 18 years old at the time of interview.
Have a high school diploma or GED, or an education, experience, and training combination acceptable to the hiring authority.
Have no unlawful use of a prescribed drug, controlled substance, or marijuana within one year before applying for certification.
Have no convictions of crimes punishable by imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary.
Ability to rapidly acquire working knowledge of approved communication dispatch principles, practices, and procedures.
Ability to learn, apply, and maintain Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)/Medical Priority Dispatch (MPDS) protocols.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a variety of audiences.
Ability to pass and maintain keyboarding skills under testing guidelines.
Ability to speak clearly and concisely over the radio and telephone.
Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced work environment.
Ability to make sound decisions using available information.
Ability to accomplish tasks under stress in time-sensitive situations.
Ability to efficiently read maps and interpret jurisdictional response areas.
Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers and customers.
Ability to maintain work quality and the confidentiality and integrity of the Metro Communications team.

Responsibilities

Answer emergency and non-emergency calls; determine and prioritize the necessary response; coordinate and relay information about public safety requests.
Dispatch responders and monitor and maintain the status and location of responder units.
Process NCIC data, conduct queries, and perform data entry at the request of law enforcement personnel.
Prepare and maintain accurate records and logs of radio transmissions, telephone calls, resource files, and information systems.
Operate electronic telephone, radio, and computer equipment and update information using various database systems.
Participate in meetings, provide program feedback, recommend improvements, collaborate on new opportunities and policies or procedures, address barriers, and mentor and support peers.
Perform tactical dispatch and/or training responsibilities as assigned.
Perform other duties and functions necessary or incidental to the proper performance of the position.

Benefits

$3,000 sign-on bonus.
$0.75-per-hour shift differential for hours between 2:00 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., seven days a week.
Six-month comprehensive paid training program.
Access to a live-in support dog, workout facility, wellness lab, and outdoor space for breaks.
Employee well-being support, including EAP, chaplains, and peer support.
Career development opportunities, continuous education, and potential advancement to Shift Lead and supervisory roles.
In-house staff committee participation opportunities.

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