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Fire Dispatch Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Stafford County

Communications Officer

Stafford, VA

$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 ...

Home Fire Protection

Be Seen First

Fire Alarm Technician (NICET II Certified)

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

... dispatchers Company Description Homer Fire Protection is a dedicated fire protection services company serving commercial and industrial clients across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC. We ...

Pae

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 ...

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 Portsmouth, VA

911 Dispatcher

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

... fire, ambulance, and other emergency services, as well as non-emergency calls, using the city's computer aided dispatch system. Reports to the 911 Dispatcher Supervisor. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ...

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Fire Dispatch information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$55.9K

$72.9K

How much do fire dispatch jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,886 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Public Safety Telecommunicator

Public Safety Telecommunicator

Loudoun County Government

Leesburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large Employers! We're proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to employee satisfaction and excellence in public service. At Loudoun County, we bring together talented professionals from all backgrounds to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, growing community - that's The Loudoun Difference.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.


_________________________________________________________________________________________

Introduction

Loudoun County Fire and Rescue is comprised of approximately 902 employees and 1,127 active operational and administrative volunteers. The Department is a growing organization that serves a large and diverse population located 30 miles northwest of Washington, DC. We provide a full range of emergency and non-emergency services to approximately 400,000 residents within a 520 square mile area. Additional information about the Department can be found at www.loudoun.gov/fire.
We seek to hire a highly motivated, effective, and diverse workforce to meet the needs of the County's residents, visitors, and business community, and support the Department's core values of Teamwork, Integrity, Professionalism, and Service. Loudoun County offers a meaningful career, competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package. Additional information can be found at www.loudoun.gov/benefits.

Job Summary

The Department is seeking qualified applicants for regular, full-time positions as a Public Safety Telecommunicator working an average of 42 hours per week in the Emergency Communications Center (ECC).
Duties include but are not limited to: receiving calls from the public and promptly determining the urgency of the call; processing the call efficiently and accurately while maintaining a professional, courteous and reassuring demeanor with the callers; maintain essential knowledge of the CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) system; enter data promptly and accurately; maintain status files; maintain knowledge of division procedures, operations and policies; complete daily logs; and perform other tasks as assigned to ensure an effective, efficient and professional Emergency Communications Center. Successful applicants will also be required to participate in scheduled, on-shift training to maintain the knowledge and skills associated with the job. In addition to the advertised salary, there is a night-time differential paid to employees working night shifts.
Hiring salary will be commensurate with experience.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent; at least two (2) years of work experience in a call center or providing customer service; satisfactory completion of prescribed LCFR training programs (Call Taker and Dispatcher) and certifications (APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator, Priority Dispatch Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Priority Dispatch Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) and Priority Dispatch Emergency Police Dispatch (EPD)) within the probationary period. See Certifications, License, and Special Requirements.
Preference given to those with NFPA didactic certification, or equivalent, as Firefighter, EMT, and/or certification as Association of Public-Safety Communications Officers (APCO) Public Safety Telecommunicator, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) and Emergency Police Dispatch (EPD).

Job Contingencies and Special Requirements

The selection process will include review of application, verification of certifications and experience, CritiCall computer simulation test, and a panel interview. Also, successful completion of extensive criminal background check (including fingerprinting) and drug screening.
Successful candidates will be required to complete an internal Call Taker AND Dispatcher Recruit school and successfully pass the LCFR Call Taker AND Dispatcher Release test during the probationary period.
Must be able to work rotating shifts, that include days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Some workdays require extended shifts. Current operating schedule is 2 days 0700-1900 followed by 2 nights 1900-0700 then off for 4 days and may be subject to change.
Anticipated timeline and details for this recruitment are listed below. All dates are subject to change.
Applications are accepted through August 9, 2026, at 11:59 pm.
Application Review and candidate testing notification: August 10-12, 2026
In-person Criticall Testing: August 26 & 27, 2026
In-person Interview: September 8 - 10, 2026
Target Hire Date: October 22, 2026

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Equal Employment Opportunity
Loudoun County Government prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that promotes employee wellness and work-life balance. As an equal opportunity employer, we consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors.

Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants who wish to request a reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process should call Human Resources directly at
703-777-0213 or email Human Resources.

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