How to Become a Public Safety Telecommunicators in Virginia
Public Safety Telecommunicators in Virginia earn a median salary of $48,450/year, which is 4% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a public safety telecommunicators takes home approximately $1,813/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a public safety telecommunicators can afford in Virginia
Becoming a public safety telecommunicators in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Public Safety Telecommunicators positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many public safety telecommunicators positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for public safety telecommunicatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 2,930 public safety telecommunicators. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.
Public Safety Telecommunicators salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond | $52K | $24.83/hr | 440 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $50K | $23.86/hr | 480 |
| Harrisonburg | $48K | $23/hr | 50 |
| Roanoke | $47K | $22.63/hr | 150 |
| Winchester | $45K | $21.83/hr | 60 |
| Lynchburg | $45K | $21.8/hr | 110 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $45K | $21.72/hr | 70 |
| Charlottesville | $41K | $19.9/hr | 70 |
Public Safety Telecommunicators salary range in Virginia
Public Safety Telecommunicators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public safety telecommunicators make in Virginia?▼
The median public safety telecommunicators salary in Virginia is $48,450 per year ($23.29/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $50,730. Salaries range from $37,170 to $72,310.
What are the requirements to become a public safety telecommunicators in Virginia?▼
Public Safety Telecommunicators positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a public safety telecommunicators afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $48,450, a public safety telecommunicators in Virginia would take home approximately $3,225/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public safety telecommunicators in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public safety telecommunicators in Virginia are Richmond ($51,650), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($49,630), Harrisonburg ($47,840). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for public safety telecommunicators?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $48,450 salary, this means roughly $2,270/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.