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Fire Dispatcher Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

DPW Mobile Fuel Dispatcher

Reno, NV · On-site

$1.4K - $1.6K/wk

JOB SUMMARY The Department of Public Works (DPW) Mobile Fuel Dispatcher will collect and dispatch ... Working knowledge of OSHA-compliant personal protection equipment, first aid kits, and fire ...

DPW Mobile Fuel Dispatcher

Reno, NV · On-site

$1.4K - $1.6K/wk

JOB SUMMARY The Department of Public Works (DPW) Mobile Fuel Dispatcher will collect and dispatch ... Working knowledge of OSHA-compliant personal protection equipment, first aid kits, and fire ...

Supervise and/or participate in presuppression activities; develop preplans and preattack fire plans; check fire access roads, gates, and water supplies; and review and update dispatch response cards.

Fire Dispatcher information

See Reno, NV salary details

$37.4K

$56.2K

$73.3K

How much do fire dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire dispatcher in Reno, NV is $56,204.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $66,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are fire dispatchers?

Fire dispatchers are emergency service professionals who receive and process calls related to fires, medical emergencies, and other incidents requiring fire department response. They gather critical information from callers, determine the nature and location of the emergency, and dispatch the appropriate fire and emergency personnel to the scene. Fire dispatchers also provide instructions to callers and maintain communication with responding units to ensure a coordinated and efficient response. Their role is essential in ensuring public safety and effective emergency management.

Is being a fire dispatcher hard?

Fire dispatchers coordinate emergency responses by answering calls, dispatching personnel, and providing critical information. The job requires strong communication skills, the ability to handle stressful situations, and often involves shift work, including nights and weekends. It can be demanding due to the high-pressure environment and the need for quick decision-making.

Is it hard to become an emergency dispatcher?

Becoming a fire dispatcher typically requires completing a training program, passing a written exam, and obtaining certification, which can vary in difficulty depending on the individual's skills and experience. Strong communication skills, the ability to stay calm under pressure, and familiarity with emergency response protocols are important for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Fire Dispatchers during emergency situations?

Fire Dispatchers often work in high-pressure environments where they must quickly gather accurate information and dispatch the appropriate resources, all while remaining calm and composed. One common challenge is managing multiple emergencies simultaneously, which requires strong multitasking and prioritization skills. Dispatchers also need to communicate clearly with both callers in distress and first responders, ensuring that instructions are understood and followed. Additionally, coping with the emotional impact of distressing calls can be a significant challenge, but most agencies provide support and training to help dispatchers manage stress and maintain their well-being.

What Do Fire Dispatchers Do?

Fire dispatchers play a critical role in the emergency and non-emergency communications for a given city. Working in a call center, a fire dispatcher will receive calls from individuals, through 911 or a direct phone number. The dispatcher will be responsible for listening to the details and coordinate the appropriate services necessary to help the caller. Along with fire departments, dispatchers may often work with emergency medical services (EMS) and other public safety services. These calls can be for critical and life-threatening situations which will require the fire dispatcher to remain calm and gather the necessary information to get the right help to the right location.

What do firefighter dispatchers do?

Firefighter dispatchers, also known as emergency dispatchers or 911 operators, are responsible for receiving emergency calls, gathering essential information, and dispatching fire crews and equipment to the scene. They monitor ongoing incidents, provide instructions to callers, and coordinate communication between emergency responders using radio systems. Strong communication skills, quick decision-making, and knowledge of emergency protocols are essential for this role.

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

To excel as a Fire Dispatcher, you need strong decision-making skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring certification in emergency dispatching. Familiarity with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency protocols is crucial. Excellent communication, composure under pressure, and the ability to multitask help set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure rapid, accurate response to emergencies, directly impacting public safety and the effectiveness of fire services.

How much is a 911 dispatcher paid?

The average salary for a 911 dispatcher varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 annually. Entry-level dispatchers may start at lower wages, while experienced professionals or those in high-demand areas can earn higher pay, often supplemented with shift differentials and benefits.

What is the difference between Fire Dispatcher vs Emergency Communications Officer?

AspectFire DispatcherEmergency Communications Officer
CertificationsEmergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), CPR, dispatcher certificationsEmergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), CPR, dispatcher certifications
Work EnvironmentDispatch centers, emergency call roomsDispatch centers, emergency call rooms
Industry UsageFire departments, emergency servicesPublic safety agencies, emergency services
Job FocusCoordinate fire response, dispatch fire unitsCoordinate various emergency responses, including fire, medical, and police

Both roles involve emergency call handling and dispatching, often requiring similar certifications. However, Fire Dispatchers primarily focus on fire response coordination, while Emergency Communications Officers handle a broader range of emergencies, including medical and police incidents. The roles are integral to public safety and often overlap in work environment and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Dispatcher jobs in Reno, NV? For Fire Dispatcher jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Dispatcher jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Dispatcher jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Fire Dispatcher jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Fire Dispatcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Dispatcher job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,204 per year, or $27 per hour.

$60K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Division of Forestry is recruiting for a Supervisory Fire Control Dispatcher who serves as the Assistant Center Manager at the Elko Interagency Dispatch Center. This position performs the Supervisory functions for the State Employees in the Dispatch Centers, such as scheduling, approving timesheets, updating work performance standards and completing performance evaluations for the Fire Control Dispatcher 1 and 2s, as well as acting as the floor supervisor to help facilitate and coordinate the emergency dispatch response during Wildland Fire Season.

This position is also responsible for performing building steward duties, ensuring that the State Facility is being properly maintained, Fire Safety Systems are operational, and safety issues are being addressed. Fire Control Dispatchers operate communication equipment at an assigned interagency communications center, and dispatch personnel, supplies, aircraft, and mobile equipment to fire scenes, medical emergencies, law enforcement incidents, hazardous materials incidents, and other emergency situations. Essential Qualifications Graduation from high school or equivalent education and five years of emergency dispatching experience, two years of which must have been in a fire control or public safety agency; OR two years of experience as a Fire Control Dispatcher II in Nevada State service; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above.

Job Duties Dispatch emergency response personnel and equipment to incident scenes; receive calls and obtain pertinent information regarding the problem, location, person reporting and telephone number; determine the nature and extent of equipment and personnel required for the situation and dispatch nearest available units to provide protection for life, property and natural resources during medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, structural or wildland fires, and other emergency situations. Maintain communication with responding units, reporting parties and Division office; establish priorities and coordinate and update information concerning the incident; mobilize and dispatch additional resources and logistical support as appropriate or as requested by the incident commander; contact and advise other agencies, special response teams, and other interested parties of pertinent information. Operate computers, radios, and other communications equipment; maintain records, logs and files related to incidents, personnel and equipment activated, billing information for cooperating agencies, controlled burns, and other data; track out of state and out of district assignments.

Monitor multiple radio frequencies and answer telephones including business and emergency lines; relay information to and from units in the field; respond to questions or refer callers to appropriate office; broadcast routine announcements regarding meetings, training, weather forecasts and other notices. Maintain current information and advise the Division office concerning the status of available personnel and equipment including Division and volunteer firefighters, emergency vehicles, aircraft and other apparatus; maintain duty rosters of personnel on duty and on call; track status, location and activities for responding units. Maintain updated information regarding the policies of the Division and other cooperating agencies, jurisdictional maps, mutual aid agreements and telephone directories; type fire and incident reports and prepare financial summary sheets.

Perform related duties as assigned. In addition to the full range of duties outlined above, positions allocated to this class either: Supervise and evaluate the performance of Fire Control Dispatchers employed by the State and other agencies; or Oversee and direct dispatching activities in a complex interagency communications center such as the Sierra Front Interagency Dispatch Center on an assigned shift; establish and revise the priorities in emergency incidents, adjust dispatcher work assignments as needed, and make decisions regarding the deployment of personnel, equipment and support services to emergency scenes. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive.

Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level. General knowledge of: practices, strategy and equipment used in an all-risk emergency response communications center; basic principles of supervision and training. Ability to: coordinate dispatching, record keeping and related activities during emergency situations to preserve lives, property and natural resources; evaluate initial attack requirements and mobilize units appropriate to the situation; anticipate the need for additional personnel, equipment and supplies in emergency incidents.

Recruiter Contact Information: Susan Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864