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Fire Communications Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

Fire Chief

West Point, NY · On-site

$125K/yr

... fire communications equipment; (5) controlling hazardous materials incidents; and/or (6) developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention. This definition of ...

City of Livingston, CA

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Fire Services Opening Date: 02/18/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Definition Under ... Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. * Establish and maintain effective ...

City of Livingston (CA)

Fire Captain

Livingston, CA · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

Fire Captains ensure compliance with City policies, departmental procedures, and applicable laws ... Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain effective ...

Air National Guard Units

$105K - $137K/yr

... fire communications equipment. (5) Controlling hazardous materials incidents. (6) Developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention (7) Firefighting and fire ...

US Department of the Air Force

$106K/yr

... communications equipment; (5) controlling hazardous materials incidents and/or (6) developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention. FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG ...

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Fire Communications information

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How much do fire communications jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire communications in the United States is $22.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire communications professional?

Fire Communications professionals are responsible for receiving emergency calls, dispatching fire and emergency services, and coordinating communication between responders and command centers. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the right resources are sent to emergencies quickly and efficiently. These professionals must stay calm under pressure, use specialized communication equipment, and provide vital information to both the public and first responders. Their work is essential for effective emergency response and public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire communications specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Communications Specialist, you need strong knowledge of emergency dispatch procedures, radio operations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with specialized training or certification in emergency communications. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, two-way radios, and National Incident Management System (NIMS) protocols is essential. Excellent multitasking abilities, calmness under pressure, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for handling stressful and urgent situations. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate, timely information is relayed to emergency responders, directly impacting public safety and effective incident response.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in fire communications, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Fire Communications often encounter high-pressure situations where quick, accurate decision-making is critical. Managing multiple calls during emergencies, prioritizing resources, and maintaining clear communication with field units can be demanding. Effective stress management, ongoing training, and strong teamwork are essential to navigate these challenges. Many agencies offer support programs and regular debriefings to help staff cope and maintain high performance in this vital role.

What is the difference between Fire Communications vs Fire Dispatch?

AspectFire CommunicationsFire Dispatch
CertificationsEmergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), CPREMD, CPR
Work EnvironmentEmergency call centers, radio communication roomsEmergency dispatch centers, radio rooms
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesFire departments, emergency response agencies
Job FocusHandling emergency calls, coordinating responsesDispatching fire units, managing response logistics

Fire Communications and Fire Dispatch roles are closely related, often overlapping in skills and work environment. Fire Communications typically involves handling emergency calls and coordinating responses, while Fire Dispatch focuses on dispatching fire units and managing response logistics. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential in fire emergency operations, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly within the emergency response process.

More about Fire Communications jobs

What states have the most Fire Communications jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fire Communications jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Fire Communications jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Communications jobs are:

Fire Communications jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Communications job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,573 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

FIRE COMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR II

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

BID ANNOUNCEMENT
Fire Communications Operator II
Office of Emergency Management and Communications
Fire Operations
Number of Positions: 12
(Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)
Starting Salary: $104,616 annually
Applications for this position will be accepted from August 25, 2026 until 11:59pm CDT on 09/8/202 6
This position is covered under the City's collective bargaining agreement with the INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS (I.B.E.W.) LOCAL UNION NO. 9 - BARGAINING UNIT 29. Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.
BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND
1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"
2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')
3. Select your correct bargaining unit
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION
Under supervision, the class functions as dispatchers within the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), working a fixed shift responding to 9-1-1 emergency calls and dispatching of fire suppression and rescue and emergency medical services (EMS) units to reported incidents of fire or medical emergencies, and performs related duties as required
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Dispatches fire and ambulance companies to reported incidents of fire or medical emergencies using a three-screen fire dispatch console
  • Reviews fire apparatus and personnel response recommendations generated by computer-aided dispatch system (CAD)
  • Determines if computer generated recommended responses are appropriate for reported incidents and initiates dispatch instructions
  • Dispatches additional fire companies as required during extra alarm fires to provide adequate levels of support at the scene
  • Monitors the status of incidents via radio communications to ensure dispatched fire companies and emergency medical units arrive at the scene and to relay requests for additional support
  • Operates radio and mobile data computer (MDC) equipment to communicate with fire and emergency medical service personnel in the field
  • Apprises supervisor of any significant or unusual fire incidents or emergency medical services field activities during and assigned shift change
  • Performs routine testing of communication equipment and electrical circuits to ensure proper operation of fire communication systems, as required
  • Assists in trouble shooting fire communication lines and circuits, as required
  • May answer emergency 9-1-1 calls from persons reporting fires and requesting fire suppression and rescue, or emergency medical services

Additional duties may be required for this position
Location: Office of Emergency Management and Communications
Address: 1411 West Madison
Days Off: Rotating Days Off
Watch/Shifts: Various (1st, 2nd & 3rd Watch)
Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.; 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.; 11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.
THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training, and Experience
  • One (1) year experience as a Fire Communications Operator I with the City of Chicago

Licensure, Certification, or Other Qualifications
  • Must currently possess and maintain an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and/or EMT Paramedic certification
  • Must currently possess and maintain an Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification
  • Must be able to type a minimum of twenty-five (25) words per minute

NOTE: Bidders who pass the test must show proof of a valid Illinois EMT (or higher) license and validation that their continuing education hours are up to date AND a current EMD certification, AT THE TIME OF INTERVIEW.
SELECTION REQUIREMENTS
This position requires applicants to complete a written test / skills assessment. Test results will be sent out by the Department of Human Resources after the test results have been analyzed and compiled. Bidders who receive a passing score on the test will be placed on referral list. The bidder(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position will be selected in seniority order according to the collective bargaining agreement.
For Information on our employees benefits please visit our benefits website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/benefits-office.html
For Information on our salary and title structure visit our classifications website at:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dhr/provdrs/Job_Classification_Compensation/svcs/classification-and-pay-plan.html#docaccess-ba6c316e7a6d538348ff53b1eeebb6ab
Application Evaluation: Initial evaluation will be based on information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resource staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow any and all required Employment/Hiring Plan provisions, federal, state and local laws, and Collective Bargaining Agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligibility list in lottery order. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago.
ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.
The City of Chicago in an Equal Employment Opportunity and Military Friendly Employer.
City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor

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