The 9-1-1 call taker experience at E-Comm

E-Comm launches a new recruitment video

The days are so varied which is one reason I love this job: you never know what will be on the other side of the line. I have so many memorable calls I couldn’t narrow one down, but my most rewarding type of call is a wellness check when we find someone’s loved one they were concerned about and can let them know they are safe and sound.
– Meagan, police call taker

Tension-filled movies may have given you a certain idea of how a 9-1-1 emergency communications centre works, but have you ever received a firsthand impression of what a day as a 9-1-1 call taker can look like?

E-Comm has launched a new recruitment video to showcase our invaluable call takers and the work they do. Ultimately, we wanted to authentically portray all aspects of the call taker job – the qualifications, the challenges and the fulfillment. This video aims to inspire and attract talent to pursue a meaningful career with diverse growth opportunities in a unique and dynamic environment.

What does it take to be a 9-1-1 call taker?

Often called the first first responders, 9-1-1 call takers are the first point of contact for people needing immediate assistance from police, fire or ambulance in B.C. They answer emergency calls (9-1-1 calls), gather vital information from callers to get them the help they need and transfer those calls to the requested agency for response. Accountability, patience and resilience are only a few necessary skills to excel as a call taker at E-Comm.

This job can be extremely exhausting and stressful in the probationary period when you are undergoing training. Be humble, open to learning and know that it will get easier as you get more comfortable. If you want to succeed in this job, you need to be clear with your verbal communication, fast at typing, familiar with keyboard shortcut usage, and able to multitask on the computer.
– Brayden, peer coach

“If you are thinking about becoming a call taker, go for it. The training is available and you have a village of people behind you. We are all in this together and here to build each other up.” recommends Sarah, a police call taker at E-Comm.

Let the video speak for itself

Starting in 2023, E-Comm will be showing the recruitment video at call taker information sessions, career fairs, new employee orientations, industry panels, and career fairs – take a first peek at the video below and get inspired.

Did we spark your interest?

Find out if 9-1-1 call-taking is the right career path for you by taking our self-assessment and reading about the call taker experience, including qualifications, salary, the recruitment process, and more here.

Ready to start the application process? Apply below to become a 9-1-1 call taker in our Vancouver Island or Lower Mainland Emergency Communications Centre.

911 Emergency/Non-Emergency Call Taker | Vancouver Island

911 Emergency/Non-Emergency Call Taker | Lower Mainland