How to Become a 911 Dispatcher in Michigan

Prior to becoming a 911 dispatcher in Michigan, you will need to complete the necessary training and education requirements need to complete the positions responsibilities.

Michigan 911 Dispatcher Training

Michigan 911 dispatchers will need to complete the required training and all that it entails. This training may vary slightly from employer to employer, but basic training includes:

• The completion of a 40 hour standard telecommunications class that includes subjects such as:
  • Stress Reduction
  • Communication Between Individuals
  • Radio Communication
  • Phone Skills
  • Public Health and Safety
• Prior to two years of employment all dispatcher must complete at least 40 hours in the following:
  • Emergency Liability
  • Suicide Prevention
  • Home Abuse
  • Homeland Security

Furthermore, all dispatchers will need to complete 24 hours of training every two years, this training can be done at the person’s place of employment if possible.

Michigan 911 Operator Education

Although some 911 dispatcher positions in the state will not require that you obtain a college degree, however, in order to remain competitive in employment and be eligible for career advancement, you may need to obtain higher education and training. Some useful degrees and certifications include:

• Emergency Telecommunications Certificate
• Business
• Criminal Justice
• Legal Studies
• Communication

Michigan 911 Dispatcher Employers

In the state of Michigan, there is a high demand for 911 operators due to the large call volume that is received by state emergency dispatchers throughout the state sometimes reaching as high as 10 million calls a year.

For Michigan 911 dispatchers, the largest employers in the stat include:

• Midland, Midland County Central Dispatch
• Saginaw, Saginaw County 911 Communications Center
• Howell, Livingston County 911 Emergency Dispatch
• Auburn Hills, Auburn Hills Police Department
• Bloomfield Hills, Oakland Police Department
• Detroit, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Michigan 911 Dispatcher Salary

In the state of Michigan, 911 dispatchers are paid well for the services they provide to their communities, with the average 911 operator earning $39,960 each year, According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.