Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Header
This job is expired.

911 Operator

Boston, MA
Full-Time

Job Description

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA’s core values are built around safety, service, equity, and sustainability and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed.

Job Summary

This position is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls for service over the telephone and by other means, employing appropriate call screening protocols, and responding to those calls by dispatching the appropriate public safety resources. This position is responsible for interaction with other public safety dispatch centers in the answering and transferring of calls and incident information, and for maintaining communications with field personnel in law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies. This position is required to respond appropriately to requests for services and information from field personnel.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Answer all incoming emergency and non-emergency calls to TPD via 10-Digit Telephone Lines, Emergency and Non-emergency 1212 lines from internal sources.
  • Monitor back up radios (2 frequencies).
  • Monitor ELERTS system and radios and answers telephones to obtain information regarding reported emergency.
  • Determine nature of response, calls in required personnel and dispatches appropriate fire, police and other emergency response personnel to emergency scene.
  • Relay messages to various Department personnel and departments regarding emergencies.
  • Call in assistance from other communities in accordance with established procedures and protocols.
  • Respond to non-emergency calls, providing information and assistance and refers callers to appropriate department and/or employee.
  • Act as liaison between local and neighboring municipalities and the public utility for the purpose of reporting emergency situations, needed repairs and loss of service.
  • Dispatch calls for service via the TPD's radio system.
  • Enter calls for service via the TPD's CAD Records Management System.
  • Perform related duties and projects assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include focus on one or more departments or locations. See applicable addendum for department or location specific functions.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

  • A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) from an accredited institution.
  • Should possess a polite but authoritative telephone voice and manner, as well as the ability to understand and skillfully manage emergency and business callers.
  • Must have the ability to be understood clearly by others over radio and telephone circuits, to accurately record the detail of telephone and radio conversations, and to remain calm under the pressure of emergencies, aggressive or emotional callers, peaking workloads, and multiple (simultaneous) responsibilities.
  • Ability to sit at a computer workstation for extended periods in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Simultaneously process information from multiple sources (verbal, text, and video) and keep information clear.
  • Recall details and record information/numbers quickly and correctly.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing.
  • Work collaboratively and cooperatively with co-workers and personnel from customer agencies.

Substitutions Include

None.

Preferred Experience and Skills

  • Previous dispatcher or telecommunicator experience 
  • Proficient in Spanish or Haitian-Creole

Job Conditions:

  • Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.
  • Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role.
  • Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences.
  • Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team (or supervise, if required).
  • Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers.
  • Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies.
  • Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection).
  • Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service.
  • Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op.

Disclaimers and Definitions:

  1. General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position.
  2. Application Completion: It is each applicant’s responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered. Attachments do not substitute for application fields. Recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history.
  3. Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.
  4. Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.
  5. Work Eligibility: Although the MBTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
  6. Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email.
  7. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
  8. On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.
  9. Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management.
  10. ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or hradaaa@mbta.com.
  11. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit mbta.com/careers-app-definitions.
PDN-9e85716c-d475-4e76-b1e4-ef733ad02c59

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA’s core values are built around safety, service, equity, and sustainability and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed.

Job Summary

This position is responsible for receiving emergency and non-emergency calls for service over the telephone and by other means, employing appropriate call screening protocols, and responding to those calls by dispatching the appropriate public safety resources. This position is responsible for interaction with other public safety dispatch centers in the answering and transferring of calls and incident information, and for maintaining communications with field personnel in law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies. This position is required to respond appropriately to requests for services and information from field personnel.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Answer all incoming emergency and non-emergency calls to TPD via 10-Digit Telephone Lines, Emergency and Non-emergency 1212 lines from internal sources.
  • Monitor back up radios (2 frequencies).
  • Monitor ELERTS system and radios and answers telephones to obtain information regarding reported emergency.
  • Determine nature of response, calls in required personnel and dispatches appropriate fire, police and other emergency response personnel to emergency scene.
  • Relay messages to various Department personnel and departments regarding emergencies.
  • Call in assistance from other communities in accordance with established procedures and protocols.
  • Respond to non-emergency calls, providing information and assistance and refers callers to appropriate department and/or employee.
  • Act as liaison between local and neighboring municipalities and the public utility for the purpose of reporting emergency situations, needed repairs and loss of service.
  • Dispatch calls for service via the TPD's radio system.
  • Enter calls for service via the TPD's CAD Records Management System.
  • Perform related duties and projects assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include focus on one or more departments or locations. See applicable addendum for department or location specific functions.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

  • A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) from an accredited institution.
  • Should possess a polite but authoritative telephone voice and manner, as well as the ability to understand and skillfully manage emergency and business callers.
  • Must have the ability to be understood clearly by others over radio and telephone circuits, to accurately record the detail of telephone and radio conversations, and to remain calm under the pressure of emergencies, aggressive or emotional callers, peaking workloads, and multiple (simultaneous) responsibilities.
  • Ability to sit at a computer workstation for extended periods in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Simultaneously process information from multiple sources (verbal, text, and video) and keep information clear.
  • Recall details and record information/numbers quickly and correctly.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing.
  • Work collaboratively and cooperatively with co-workers and personnel from customer agencies.

Substitutions Include

None.

Preferred Experience and Skills

  • Previous dispatcher or telecommunicator experience 
  • Proficient in Spanish or Haitian-Creole

Job Conditions:

  • Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.
  • Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role.
  • Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences.
  • Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team (or supervise, if required).
  • Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers.
  • Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies.
  • Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection).
  • Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service.
  • Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op.

Disclaimers and Definitions:

  1. General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position.
  2. Application Completion: It is each applicant’s responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered. Attachments do not substitute for application fields. Recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history.
  3. Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.
  4. Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.
  5. Work Eligibility: Although the MBTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
  6. Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email.
  7. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
  8. On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.
  9. Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management.
  10. ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or hradaaa@mbta.com.
  11. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit mbta.com/careers-app-definitions.
PDN-9e85716c-d475-4e76-b1e4-ef733ad02c59

About Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, often referred to as the MBTA or simply The T, is the public operator of most bus, subway, commuter rail and ferry systems in the greater Boston, Massachusetts, area. 

The MBTA is the largest transit provider in New England, and the fifth largest in the country. 

The MBTA directly operates or contracts out for service using eight different modes: heavy rail, light rail, bus rapid transit, local/express bus, trackless trolley, commuter rail, commuter boat, and paratransit. 

In Boston, 55% of all work trips and 42% of all trips into downtown are made by transit. 

The MBTA district is made up of 175 communities with a total population of 4.7 million. 

Almost three-quarters of all Massachusetts residents live within the MBTA service area.

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Apply For This Job
911 Operator
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)
Boston, MA
Mar 26, 2025
$28 an hour
Full-time
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