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

The Town of Falmouth is seeking motivated, service-driven individuals to join our Emergency Communications Center as full-time Communications Officers (Police and Fire Dispatchers/911 Call-Takers). This is a fast-paced, highly impactful role supporting Police, Fire, EMS, and other Town services.

No prior experience is required, making this an excellent opportunity to start training at $29.67/hour in a rewarding career as the critical first point of contact for emergency and non-emergency public safety calls.

Applicants with prior dispatch experience have the opportunity to join our growing, professional, and team-oriented department at a starting rate of up to $37.74/hour and with vacation benefits commensurate with their experience.

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 nights, overnights, weekends, and holidays. A minimum of two Communications Officers are assigned to each shift.

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.

All applicants must complete a CritiCall pre-employment screening to evaluate job-related skills. The link to screening will be sent via email following receipt of your application. 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.

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.

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

Starting Hourly Rate:
• New Hires (No Dispatch Experience): Train at $29.67/hour (Step 1) for approximately 3 months. Hourly rate increases to $30.71/hour (Step 2) when cleared as shift strength, with room to annually advance along the 9-step pay scale.
• Lateral Hires (Experienced Dispatchers): Start up to Step 8 ($37.74/hour), and vacation benefits are commensurate with experience.

Communications Officers enjoy substantial overtime opportunities, 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, April 6, 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 to the online application portal.

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.