Schedule and dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles for conveyance of materials, freight, or passengers, or for normal installation, service, or emergency repairs rendered outside the place of business. Duties may include using radio, telephone, or computer to transmit assignments and compiling statistics and reports on work progress.
SOC: 43-5032.00
Common Job Titles
City Dispatcher
Dispatcher (Dispatch)
Taxi Dispatcher
Train Dispatcher
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeCoordinate work crews, equipment, and service vehicle assignments using computer-aided dispatch systems and real-time communication tools under time-sensitive conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess transportation routes and scheduling constraints considering traffic conditions, geographic factors, and customer service requirements.
Proficient
MindsetBalance competing service demands and resource limitations when managing multiple concurrent dispatch requests in high-pressure situations.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret customer service requests and technical work orders to determine appropriate personnel qualifications and equipment requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze incoming service requests and emergency repair calls to determine priority levels and optimal resource allocation.
Developing
MindsetEngage with customers, drivers, and field personnel to maintain effective communication channels and resolve scheduling conflicts.
Developing
KnowledgeMonitor work progress, vehicle locations, and crew status using GPS tracking and mobile data terminal systems to ensure timely service delivery.
Developing
Hands-onOperate multi-line telephone systems, two-way radios, and dispatch servers to transmit assignments and maintain continuous communication with field units.
Developing
KnowledgeCompile statistical reports on work assignments, response times, and operational efficiency using database and spreadsheet software to support management decision-making.
Developing
KnowledgeApply public safety protocols and administrative procedures when dispatching personnel for normal operations and emergency service calls.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
211,000
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,600. 25th percentile: U.S. $40,240. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,880. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,520. 90th percentile: U.S. $76,130. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$34,600
10% of workers earn the following or more
$76,130
Workers on average earn
$53,150
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
Public Safety and Security4.0/5
Administration and Management3.9/5
Administrative3.7/5
English Language3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
