1

Fire Dispatch Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Fire Alarm Recruit

Memphis, TN · On-site

$47K/yr

Asks scripted Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) questions based on type of emergency and advises caller of appropriate medical actions to take until medical personnel arrive on the scene. Advises Fire ...

Asks scripted Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) questions based on type of emergency and advises caller of appropriate medical actions to take until medical personnel arrive on the scene. Advises Fire ...

Fire Communications Dispatcher

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

Dispatches fire, medical, and protective services, and other emergency response vehicles and ... Medical Dispatch (EMD) information according to established directives. Receives trouble ...

Rotating on-call (available to dispatch for after-hours service when assigned as the primary ... NICET Level II, or higher, in Fire Alarm Systems preferred, not required * Valid driver's license ...

Must be able to perform Fire / Security Dispatch operations using software such as: SAFER system, Eastman Alert system and Workplace Chemicals list, Keltron, Genetec, Johnson Control Alarm Monitoring.

Must be able to perform Fire / Security Dispatch operations using software such as: SAFER system, Eastman Alert system and Workplace Chemicals list, Keltron, Genetec, Johnson Control Alarm Monitoring.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES 1. Receive, record and dispatch incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from Police and Fire agencies, hospitals, nursing facilities and private individuals. 2. Enter all ...

ESSENTIAL DUTIES 1. Receive, record and dispatch incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from Police and Fire agencies, hospitals, nursing facilities and private individuals. 2. Enter all ...

ESSENTIAL DUTIES 1. Receive, record and dispatch incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from Police and Fire agencies, hospitals, nursing facilities and private individuals. 2. Enter all ...

Must log patrols from Fire Brigades * Must monitor Officer traffic via radio. * Must take emergency calls and dispatch any active emergency. * Must monitor Simplex Fire Panel for any possible fires ...

Police Dispatcher

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$34K - $41K/yr

Must enter calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, access campus information, and query local, state and national law enforcement databases. Must monitor fire, intrusion, panic ...

Dispatcher 911

Clinton, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $18.25/hr

Dispatch coordination - Deploy police, fire, EMS, and other services as appropriate. * Information relay - Communicate descriptions and critical details to field units regarding wanted persons ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Dispatch information

See Tennessee salary details

$34K

$51.2K

$66.7K

How much do fire dispatch jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire dispatch in Tennessee is $51,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $60,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a fire dispatcher hard?

Fire dispatching is a demanding job that requires quick decision-making, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations. Dispatchers often work in shifts, including nights and weekends, and must stay calm and focused while coordinating emergency responses. Training and certifications are typically required to ensure readiness for the job's responsibilities.

What is the difference between Fire Dispatch vs Emergency Medical Dispatcher?

AspectFire DispatchEmergency Medical Dispatcher
Required CertificationsEmergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification often preferredEMD certification required
Work EnvironmentDispatching fire units, handling fire emergenciesDispatching ambulance services, handling medical emergencies
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesAmbulance services, hospitals, emergency call centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Fire Dispatch and Emergency Medical Dispatcher roles both involve emergency call handling and dispatching services. While Fire Dispatch focuses on fire emergencies and fire department coordination, Emergency Medical Dispatch centers on medical emergencies and ambulance services. Both roles require similar certifications and work in emergency response environments, but they serve different aspects of emergency services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Dispatcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Dispatcher, you need strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized dispatcher training. Familiarity with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure rapid, accurate response coordination and effective communication during emergencies, which can be critical for public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by fire dispatchers during emergency incidents?

Fire dispatchers often work in high-pressure situations where quick decision-making and clear communication are essential. One common challenge is managing multiple emergency calls simultaneously, requiring effective prioritization and multitasking. Dispatchers must also remain calm and composed to relay accurate information to fire crews and coordinate with other emergency services. Additionally, handling emotionally distressed callers can be demanding, making resilience and strong interpersonal skills crucial for success in this role.

What are fire dispatchers and what do they do?

Fire dispatchers are emergency communication professionals who receive and process calls related to fires and other emergencies. Their primary role is to quickly and accurately gather information from callers, determine the nature and location of the emergency, and then dispatch the appropriate fire and rescue units. They also provide critical instructions to callers, coordinate with other emergency services, and monitor the status of response units. Fire dispatchers play a vital role in ensuring timely emergency response and public safety.

What do firefighter dispatchers do?

Firefighter dispatchers, also known as emergency dispatchers, are responsible for receiving emergency calls, assessing the situation, and quickly relaying information to firefighters and other emergency personnel. They use radio systems and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software to coordinate responses, provide instructions to callers, and ensure timely deployment of resources. Strong communication skills, calmness under pressure, and knowledge of emergency protocols are essential for this role.

What is the highest paying dispatcher job?

The highest paying dispatcher jobs are often in specialized fields such as aviation, railroad, or emergency medical dispatching, which require additional certifications and experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to the complexity and responsibility involved, with some positions paying over $60,000 annually. Factors like industry, location, and level of certification influence salary levels for dispatchers.

How much do fire dispatchers make?

Fire dispatchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the department. In larger cities, salaries can be higher, and additional benefits such as shift differentials and overtime may increase overall compensation. Certification in emergency communication and familiarity with dispatch software are often required for the role.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Dispatch jobs in Tennessee? For Fire Dispatch jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Dispatch job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,162 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Fire Alarm Recruit

Fire Alarm Recruit

City of Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN • On-site

$47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description


Salary Range: $47,653.32 -$47,653.32
Works under the general supervision of a Watch Commander or other assigned supervisor in the Communications Service Center of Fire Services. Operates a telephone switchboard system, Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD) system, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, paging system, video monitor and receiver, and radio console to provide fire dispatcher services and information to the public. Receives calls, records information, and documents the nature of the call, location and time of call, description of emergency, and the name and phone number of the caller. Evaluates incoming requests, emergencies, and/or complaints to determine and employ appropriate responses and actions. Researches geographical information to assist responding Fire Services employees in identifying the correct locations of reported incidents. Asks scripted Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) questions based on type of emergency and advises caller of appropriate medical actions to take until medical personnel arrive on the scene. Advises Fire Service personnel and the general public of Memphis Fire Department's procedures, resources, and legal restrictions and dispatches appropriate personnel to incidents by radio transmission. Monitors and responds to radio transmissions to maintain current status of Fire Services personnel. Provides important information to Fire Services personnel and members of the public and maintains/updates various lists and electronic files to disseminate accurate and timely information as required upon request.
Responsibilities
OTHER FUNCTIONS:
Performs other functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Requires the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing to effectively obtain and record information from callers. Requires the ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, including operation of a telephone switchboard, TTY/TDD telecommunications system for the speech and hearing impaired, CAD system, radio console, paging system, video monitor and receiver, and power-fail transfer system to review information and monitor emergency events and the status of emergency units. Requires the ability to sit for extended periods of time.
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a highly secured, enclosed dispatch environment with assigned workstation. The work environment is fast-paced and includes continuous background noise from multiple simultaneous communications. Must be available to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating days off.
Qualifications
High school graduate or equivalent and must be able to type at least 35 words per minute and successfully complete a battery of job-related tests as designated by Human Resources, in addition to a structured interview, an extensive background investigation, and a comprehensive medical examination. Knowledge of the Memphis geographical area, training and/or experience working with computers, and CPR certification preferred.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must attend a 24-hour training course and pass a written exam to obtain certification as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher within three (3) months of employment unless already certified as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. Must maintain certification by attending 24 hours of in-service quality improvement classes and pass a written exam every two (2) years, according to the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) standards, as a condition of continued employment.