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Emergency Services Dispatchers

Work Environment

This career can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Many dispatchers work eight- or 10-hour shifts; others work even longer shifts, and overtime is common. Since emergency services are needed 24/7, dispatchers must occasionally work at night, on weekends, and on holidays. Dispatchers frequently talk with people who are angry, scared, confused, or hard to understand, and the sheer number of these interactions can be stressful and tiring. It takes just the right type of person to remain calm and collected during these conversations, and many dispatchers eventually determine that this career is not for them.

Dispatchers sit for long periods of time, and most wear headsets, which can be uncomfortable. Some dispatchers are required to wear uniforms.