Emergency Response Telecommunicator

Job Requisition ID: 59827 
Opening Date: 10/27/2026
Closing Date: 11/12/2026
Agency: Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security
Class Title: EMERGENCY RESPONSE TELECOM (13543) 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4,568 monthly; Full Range $4,568- $6,133 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
Number of Vacancies: 2
Bargaining Unit Code: RC014 Clerical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 
Work Hours: TBD
Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: Not available, fully in office
Headquarter Location: 2200 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, Illinois, 62703
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: EMA.Jobs@illinois.gov

Position Overview: The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is seeking an Emergency Response Telecommunicator (ERT). ERTs perform a wide range of assigned tasks transmitting and receiving emergency and administrative messages via two-way radio concerning hazardous materials, nuclear power plant accidents, natural and manmade disasters, etc. using a multi-frequency, statewide radio base station system. The ideal candidate is quick to learn new technologies and has experience working in fast-paced and ever-changing environments. Our employees work in an ever-changing environment that presents new challenges and rewarding results. If you are interested in joining our team of compassionate and integrity-driven public servants, we invite you to apply for the Emergency Response Telecommunicator position with IEMA-OHS!

About the Agency: Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of others? The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is a team of dedicated public servants who are committed to better preparing the State of Illinois for natural, manmade, or technological disasters, hazards, or acts of terrorism. IEMA-OHS coordinates the State's disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery programs and activities, functions as the State Emergency Response Commission, and maintains a 24-hour Communication Center and State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC). The SEOC acts as lead in crisis/consequence management response and operations to notify, activate, deploy, and employ state resources in response to any threat or act of terrorism. IEMA-OHS assists local governments with multi-hazard emergency operations plans and maintains the Illinois Emergency Operations Plan. IEMA-OHS is also responsible for protecting Illinois residents from the potentially harmful effects of ionizing radiation, administering more than two dozen programs to protect citizens and the environment. Programs include extensive emergency planning and response efforts and training for local responders for accidents involving radiation; inspecting and regulating radioactive materials licensees; registering and inspecting radiation producing equipment and facilities statewide; accrediting medical radiation technologists; and certifying mammography facilities. IEMA-OHS also monitors 11 nuclear power reactors at six nuclear stations licensed to generate electricity in Illinois and inspects and escorts spent nuclear fuel shipments. 

The Operations Center is a 24/7/365 operation. The training period shifts are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, as well as some afternoon shifts of 4:00 PM–12:00 AM. Once the training period is completed, one of these shifts will be available (subject to change based on operational needs):

• 8:00 AM–4:00 PM: Sunday–Thursday, Monday–Friday, or Tuesday–Saturday


• 4:00 PM–12:00 AM: Sunday–Thursday, Monday–Friday, or Tuesday–Saturday


• 12:00 AM–8:00 AM: Sunday–Thursday or Tuesday–Saturday

Shifts are assigned based on seniority. Days off may vary based on shift availability, operational needs, and the union bidding process. Shifts are opened for bidding at least once per calendar year.

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

Resume Preferred but Not Required

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered. 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

• [email protected]


• [email protected]