How to Become a Public Safety Telecommunicators in Tennessee
Public Safety Telecommunicators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $45,730/year, which is 10% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a public safety telecommunicators takes home approximately $1,820/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a public safety telecommunicators can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a public safety telecommunicators in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Public Safety Telecommunicators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many public safety telecommunicators positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for public safety telecommunicatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 1,780 public safety telecommunicators. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.
Public Safety Telecommunicators salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $51K | $24.29/hr | 500 |
| Memphis | $47K | $22.52/hr | 350 |
| Jackson | $47K | $22.44/hr | 90 |
| Clarksville | $44K | $21.38/hr | 80 |
| Knoxville | $40K | $19.27/hr | 180 |
| Chattanooga | $39K | $18.89/hr | 110 |
| Cleveland | $39K | $18.69/hr | 40 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $39K | $18.66/hr | 80 |
| Morristown | $35K | $16.64/hr | 30 |
| Johnson City | $32K | $15.56/hr | 50 |
Public Safety Telecommunicators salary range in Tennessee
Public Safety Telecommunicators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public safety telecommunicators make in Tennessee?▼
The median public safety telecommunicators salary in Tennessee is $45,730 per year ($21.99/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $50,730. Salaries range from $33,220 to $64,060.
What are the requirements to become a public safety telecommunicators in Tennessee?▼
Public Safety Telecommunicators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a public safety telecommunicators afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $45,730, a public safety telecommunicators in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,232/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public safety telecommunicators in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public safety telecommunicators in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($50,510), Memphis ($46,840), Jackson ($46,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for public safety telecommunicators?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means public safety telecommunicators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.