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Fire Dispatch Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Stafford County

Communications Officer

Stafford, VA · On-site

$54K - $94K/yr

Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain Basic Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Fire Dispatch, NCIC/VCIN, CPR/first aid and National Incident Management System (NIMS) 100 and ...

Pae

Casual Security Operation Dispatch

Williamsburg, VA

$16 - $21/hr

Monitors alarm system signals that indicate the location of fire or other emergency and be able to accurately dispatch responding units. * Input commands on a computer keyboard to update files and ...

Amentum

Casual Security Operation Dispatch

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Monitors alarm system signals that indicate the location of fire or other emergency and be able to accurately dispatch responding units. * Input commands on a computer keyboard to update files and ...

City of Winchester

Part-Time 911 Dispatcher

Winchester, VA · On-site

$33.21/hr

... fire and emergency medical assistance Receives and transmits messages by radio and tracks all apparatus/units through Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Utilizes multiple maps to confirm locations and ...

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All JobsFire Dispatch JobsFire Dispatch Jobs in Virginia

Fire Dispatch information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$55.9K

$72.9K

How much do fire dispatch jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire dispatch in Virginia is $55,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $65,900.00 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 high-pressure environments, sometimes requiring shift work and specialized training or certifications. The role involves managing emergency calls and coordinating response efforts efficiently.

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 jobs pay $2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2000 a day are highly specialized or senior-level roles such as executive positions, specialized medical professionals, or certain high-level consulting roles. These jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes certifications, and they may involve long hours or high responsibility. Fire dispatch roles typically do not pay this amount daily, as they are generally entry to mid-level positions with standard pay scales.

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 is the highest paid dispatcher?

The highest paid dispatchers are typically emergency dispatchers or 911 operators with extensive experience, specialized training, and certifications. Salaries can reach over $60,000 annually in some regions, especially for those working in large urban areas or with advanced skills and certifications. Factors such as location, years of experience, and employer influence pay levels for fire dispatchers.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Fire dispatchers typically do not earn $5,000 a week without specialized experience or overtime; most earn lower wages. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often involve entrepreneurship, sales, real estate, or skilled trades with significant experience. Some roles in sales or business ownership may generate this income, but they usually require extensive skills and effort rather than formal education alone.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Dispatch jobs in Virginia? For Fire Dispatch jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Dispatch jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Dispatch jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Fire Dispatch jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Fire Dispatch job openings:
Fire Dispatch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Dispatch job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,886 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Lateral Communications Officer (9-1-1 Dispatcher)

Frederick County, VA

Winchester, VA • On-site

$46K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Salary: $46,394.00 - $76,466.00 Annually
Location : 1080 Coverstone Dr., Winchester, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00708
Department: PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS
Opening Date: 05/21/2026
Description
We are seeking experienced Emergency Communications 9-1-1 Dispatchers with a strong commitment to public service and a solid foundation in technical skills. This lateral position is ideal for candidates ready to contribute immediately while continuing to grow in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
At Frederick County Public Safety Communications, you'll work in a fast-paced, modern facility that leverages cutting-edge technology to provide critical support to the public 24/7/365 in a growing region.
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes full health and dental coverage, paid life insurance, participation in the Virginia Retirement System, and generous paid time off. We also offer on-call pay, various differentials, and a Career Development Program.
What You'll Do:
The requirements for this position include, but are not limited to, those outlined below. All job qualifications and physical requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the job.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all 9-1-1 emergency and non-emergency calls.
  • Assess, prioritize, and process calls to determine the appropriate response.
  • Provide life-saving instructions and maintain communication with callers during emergencies.
  • Dispatch and relay critical information to public safety personnel via radio and CAD systems.
  • Monitor and document incidents using Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and related systems.
  • Coordinate with law enforcement, fire/rescue, and other agencies to ensure effective response.
  • Access and interpret local, state, and national databases (including VCIN) as needed.
  • Maintain situational awareness of locations, resources, and incidents within Frederick County and surrounding areas.
  • Exercise sound judgment and decision-making in high-pressure situations.
  • Deliver professional, courteous service to the public and partner agencies.
  • Work collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintain regular attendance and flexibility to work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older
EDUCATION: Graduation from high school, or equivalent, General Educational Development (GED) required.
EXPERIENCE:
  • Lateral Communications Officer I/ 9-1-1 Dispatcher: Must have comparable emergency communications center experience that handles non-emergency and 9-1-1 phone calls, uses a CAD system, and dispatches for police, fire, and rescue services
  • Lateral Communications Officer II/ 9-1-1 Dispatcher: Current personnel must meet the requirements of the Career Development Program. Others must have at least 5 years' experience at a comparable emergency communications center that handles non-emergency and 9-1-1 phone calls, uses a CAD system, and dispatches for police, fire, and rescue services. There can be no more than a 1-year gap in employment between the previous experience and the application.

PREFERRED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND/OR REGISTRATIONS:Must possess required certifications OR be prepared to obtain them immediately upon employment:
(1) Virginia Basic Telecommunicator, including National Emergency Management Systems (NIMS) 100, 200,700 and 800
(2) Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) full access
(3) Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
(4) IAED Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)
(5) IAED Emergency Fire Dispatch
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of the geography within the Frederick County service area, including, but not limited to, streets, highways, boundaries, thoroughfares, landmarks, businesses, and locations of law enforcement and fire stations and districts. Understands state and federal laws, regulations, and statutes governing dispatch for emergency services. Handles multiple tasks simultaneously, under pressure, and in emergency situations. Closely follows verbal and written instructions and procedures. Operates standard and specialized public safety hardware and software to enter information with speed and accuracy. Deals tactfully and courteously with public, handles stressful situations and angry people, and obtains information from hostile and emotional callers.
Supplemental Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those required of an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Work performed is primarily office-based in a call center/dispatch environment, although occasional standing in work areas and walking between them may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator, and to operate standard office equipment; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone and radio. Positions in this classification occasionally (daily, weekly, or monthly) bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees may occasionally be required to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Employee works in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and minimal direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Work is performed in a fast-paced, call center environment. Employees must remain alert and responsive while coordinating stressful situations in a fluid and dynamic work environment. Personnel are required to wear a headset device. Employee will be required to work some combination of weekends, nights, or be on-call as a regular part of the job.
Supplemental Information
All positions are subject to a criminal background check for any convictions that relate to the job duties and responsibilities. Frederick County Virginia Government an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The County's EEO Utilization Report is available at www.fcva.us/jobs
There are a wide variety of benefits available to Frederick County employees. These benefits include: health, dental, vision, life insurance, optional life and disability plans, flexible spending account for health care, dependent care assistance program, an employee assistance program and a deferred compensation program.
Please click to view our Frederick County Employee Benefits information page with full details on all insurance plans offered.

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