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Fire Dispatch Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Petersburg

Telecommunicator I

Petersburg, VA

$33K - $55K/yr

The purpose of this class within the organization is to dispatch police, fire and rescue personnel in response to emergency and non-emergency situations. This class works under general supervision ...

King William County

911 Dispatcher

King William, VA

$44K/yr

Communications Officers will receive calls for service and dispatch information simultaneously to ... Receives law enforcement, medical, fire, EMS and related requests; Prepares and maintains ...

City of Suffolk

Communications Operator - New

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$54K - $84K/yr

Operates radio console to dispatch Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Control to calls for service. Monitors the status and location of field units. Relays messages and information to emergency response ...

Stafford County, VA

Communications Officer

Stafford, VA · On-site

$51K/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 ...

Roanoke County, VA

Communications Officer I

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$45K/yr

... fire and emergency medical services and for the timely and efficient dispatch of the appropriate units. You will monitors a variety of frequencies and serve as a vital link to the units deployed.

King William County, VA

911 Dispatcher

King William, VA · On-site

$44K/yr

Communications Officers will receive calls for service and dispatch information simultaneously to ... Receives law enforcement, medical, fire, EMS and related requests; * Prepares and maintains ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 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.

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?

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 is a fire dispatcher?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,886 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Telecommunicator I

City of Petersburg

Petersburg, VA

$33K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 hours ago

Job description

Description Starting Pay is $17.79 per hour. The purpose of this class within the organization is to dispatch police, fire and rescue personnel in response to emergency and non-emergency situations. This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. Essential Functions Answers and evaluates emergency situations and develops working solutions in a timely manner.

Dispatches calls for service to appropriate personnel in the field via radio for emergency and non-emergency calls. Sends and receives information via computer terminals. Determines priority of calls and dispatches appropriate units.

Communicates with police, fire and rescue and other law enforcement agencies, emergency service providers and general public through multi-line telephone system. Enters warrants, wanted persons, missing persons, stolen property, etc. in the National Crime Information Center/Virginia Crime Information Network (NCIC/VCIN) terminals.

Sends and receives a variety of law enforcement reports, warrants and information. Enters and records activity and status into the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Attends roll call with police units.

Coordinates training for all Communications Officers. Trains new dispatchers. Works the receptionist desk occasionally.

Performs related work as assigned. Qualifications Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent. Requires two years' experience in emergency communications dispatching.

An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the position. Special Certification and Licenses: Possession or ability to obtain a State Dispatcher Certificate within one (1) year from the date of employment. Failure to obtain the State Dispatcher Certification will result in termination.

The work schedule may vary and include any permanent day, evening, or midnight shift including weekends and holidays. Additional Requirements Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance: The City of Petersburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the City of Petersburg to provide adequate accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.

Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

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