9-1-1 Calltaker - Emergency Communications

Huntsville-Madison County 9-1-1

Location: Huntsville / Madison County, AL
Job Type: Full-Time | 12-Hour Shifts (Days or Nights)

Be the Voice People Rely On in Their Most Critical Moments

Huntsville-Madison County 9-1-1 is seeking dependable, compassionate individuals to join our Emergency Communications team as 9-1-1 Calltakers. This role is ideal for people who can remain calm under pressure, think clearly in stressful situations, and want meaningful work that directly impacts their community.

As a Calltaker, you will be the first point of contact for people experiencing emergencies. In moments of fear, confusion, or crisis, your voice will help steady callers and connect them to police, fire, and medical responders.

Every call matters - and the work you do will matter every day.

A Career Built on Training, Support, and Professional Growth

New Calltakers begin their careers with an extensive 8-12 week paid training program designed to set you up for success. During this time, your sole focus will be learning the systems, protocols, and processes used in emergency communications. You will receive hands-on guidance from a dedicated trainer or mentor, complete required exams and certifications, and develop proven techniques for communicating with callers who may be highly emotional or distressed.

You won't be expected to figure things out on your own. Training is structured, supportive, and intentional - and you'll receive pay increases as you reach key training milestones.

What the Role Looks Like Day to Day

Once certified, 9-1-1 Calltakers answer emergency calls and serve as the link between the public and emergency responders. Using a computerized call-handling system, you will gather critical information, ask life-saving questions to help route calls to the appropriate police, fire, or medical agencies. Location and mapping tools help you accurately identify where help is needed, even when callers are unsure of their surroundings.

This is fast-paced, focused work that requires strong listening skills, clear communication, and the ability to multitask - especially during high-stress situations.

Schedule and Work Environment

Calltakers work a 12-hour rotating schedule, assigned to either day shift (6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.) or night shift (6:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.) based on staffing needs. Training shifts may differ from your long-term assigned shift. The schedule rotates between three workdays one week and four the next, which includes built-in overtime pay. Some weekends and holidays are required, as emergency services operate around the clock.

You'll work in a modern, state-of-the-art communications center alongside a professional, team-oriented staff committed to excellence and public service.

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma or GED required
  (College degree not required but increases starting pay)

• Availability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays (You must be willing/able to work either shift- days or nights.)

• Strong keyboarding and general computer skills

• Ability to read maps and give directions using compass points (N, S, E, W)

• Exceptional reliability and punctuality

• Strong listening, communication, multitasking, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to remain calm and decisive during emergencies

• Coachable attitude with a willingness to learn

• Successful completion of all required screenings

Ready to Apply?

Apply today to become a 9-1-1 Calltaker with Huntsville-Madison County 9-1-1.

Qualified applicants will be contacted with additional details regarding the screening process, schedules, and next steps.

This is more than a job-it's a career where compassion, focus, and professionalism help save lives every day.