Police Communications Technician Guide
Police Communications Technicians, working under direct supervision in the Police Department Communications Section, serve as 911 call-takers; obtain necessary information from callers in order to initiate emergency assistance; serve as radio dispatchers of police resources; view pictures, videos and listen to audio attachments sent via "Text to 911"; and perform clerical, administrative and other duties related to the provision of emergency service. All Police Communications Technicians perform related work.
SALARY RANGE
$51,790 minimum per annum (Current rate; subject to change)
DIPLOMA LEVEL
High School / Degree
OPEN WINDOW
Filing Scheds
Key Job Duties
What you will act and execute daily upon appointment:
- Serve as 911 call-takers in the Police Department Communications Section, obtaining necessary information from callers to initiate emergency assistance.
- Serve as radio dispatchers of police resources across New York City.
- View pictures, videos, and listen to audio attachments sent via 'Text to 911'.
- Perform clerical, administrative, and other duties related to the provision of emergency services.
- Make responsible, time-critical judgments under pressure while communicating calmly with continuous callers under stress.
- Perform related emergency communications duties as assigned.
Filing & Appointment Eligibility
Candidates must fulfill these rules BEFORE certification:
- High School Requirement: A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent approved by a State's Department of Education or recognized accrediting organization; AND ONE of the following:
- Option A: One year of satisfactory full-time experience performing clerical, typing, or secretarial work; OR
- Option B: One year of satisfactory full-time experience dealing with the public, including the obtaining of information from persons; OR
- Option C: Successful completion of 30 college semester credits from an accredited college or university; OR
- Option D: Two years of active U.S. military duty with honorable discharge; OR
- Option E: A satisfactory combination of education and/or experience equivalent to (A), (B), (C), or (D). However, all candidates must have a four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent.
- Deadlines for Requirements: Education requirement must be met by October 13, 2027 (Civil Service Law Section 54(2)). Experience requirement must be met by October 13, 2026.
- Medical and Psychological Assessment: Candidates must pass medical and psychological examinations to determine ability to perform essential functions (which may recur periodically throughout career).
- Drug Screening Requirement: Candidates must pass a drug screening in order to be appointed.
- Residency: City residency is NOT required for this position.
- English Requirement: Candidates must be able to understand and be understood in English.
- Proof of Identity: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, candidates must prove identity and right to obtain employment in the United States prior to employment.
- Probationary Period & Training: The probationary period is 18 months. Appointees must pass a 911 emergency call-taker training course and a radio dispatcher training course; failure to complete training results in termination.
Computerized Examination Pattern
Multiple-choice test administered at a computer terminal (score of 70% or higher required to pass). Evaluates deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, information ordering, memorization, problem sensitivity, written comprehension, and written expression. Handheld calculators are NOT permitted.
Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions
Physical activities performed and environments experienced in this role:
- Sitting for extended periods of time with a headset on while monitoring a computer screen.
- Typing information into the computer using a keyboard while coordinating eye/hand movements for console and computer operations.
- Speaking calmly and clearly to elicit critical information and give instructions to callers in continuous high-stress emergency situations.
- Listening carefully to clearly understand emergency information, and sitting within hearing distance of other call-takers working under similar conditions.
Special Working Conditions
Operational environments and agency-specific criteria:
- Shift Schedules: Police Communications Technicians work various tours around the clock (24/7), including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and mandatory overtime tours.
- Probationary Training: Must successfully complete the mandatory 911 emergency call-taker and radio dispatcher training courses during the 18-month probationary period.
- Pre-Employment Screening: Subject to NYPD medical and psychological evaluations, drug screening, and a $75.00 fingerprint screening fee.
Filing and Application Fee Process
Apply online through the Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs. Application Fee: $68.00 (paying by card incurs a nonrefundable 2.00% service fee; waivers available for eligible candidates). Admission Notice available on OASys Dashboard 14 days before testing starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Timelines
Application Period: September 2, 2026 – October 13, 2026. Application Fee: $68.00. Multiple-choice testing is expected to begin on Monday, November 16, 2026. Admission Notice available on OASys Dashboard 14 days before testing.
Recommended Practice Modules
Related Updates & Guides
Ready to Prepare?
Don't wait until official reservation queues open. Take a 2-Minute Quick Test now or jump straight to full subject lists.