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Fire Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Waukesha, WI

Dispatcher

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$56K - $67K/yr

Continuous As a 911 emergency dispatcher, the initial first responders' primary responsibility is ... Receives, relays and transmits routine and emergency telephone calls to police, fire, ems, and ...

City of Waukesha

Dispatcher

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$56K - $67K/yr

As a 911 emergency dispatcher, the initial first responders' primary responsibility is to receive ... Receives, relays and transmits routine and emergency telephone calls to police, fire, ems, and ...

City of Memphis, TN

Fire Alarm Recruit

Memphis, TN

$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 ...

City of Memphis, TN

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 ...

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Fire Dispatcher information

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$73.5K

How much do fire dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire dispatcher in the United States is $56,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $66,500.00 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.

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 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 do fire dispatchers make?

Fire dispatchers typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and agency size. They often work in high-stress environments requiring strong communication skills and familiarity with emergency communication systems.

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.

More about Fire Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Fire Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most Fire Dispatcher job openings:
What states have the most Fire Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Dispatcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fire Dispatcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Dispatcher jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Dispatcher jobs? For Fire Dispatcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,370 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Dispatcher

City of Waukesha, WI

Waukesha, WI • On-site

$56K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Salary : $56,238.73 - $67,551.15 Annually
Location : City of Waukesha -POLICE - 1901 Delafield Street Waukesha, WI
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 24-00685
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 02/12/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
As a 911 emergency dispatcher, the initial first responders' primary responsibility is to receive, process, transmit and dispatch emergency & non-emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, emergency medical and other public safety services by phone, radio, or other communication devices. A 911 emergency dispatcher provides life safety and scene safety instructions using protocols while prioritizing situations and directing calls with commitment to established department policies and procedures.
Schedule: Positions operate 24/7 - 365, schedule TBD
Starting salary: $56,283.73 /$27.0379 hour
Initial interviews: TBD for those selected to move forward in the process
Tentative start date: TBD
Explore the City's benefits here:
It is not typical for someone to be hired at or near the top of the salary range. The specific compensation offered to a candidate is reviewed and based off a variety of factors including skills, qualifications, experience, certifications, and internal equity.
  1. Provides effective and efficient customer services, promotes and maintains responsive community relations.
  2. Receives, relays and transmits routine and emergency telephone calls to police, fire, ems, and other public safety agencies and units; answers 911 calls.
  3. Enters information in to the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Computer system.
  4. Utilizes Phoenix computer system to review reports and CAD entries, check for previous history of calls to locations, and provide officers and fire personnel with key holder information and Officer Safety information.
  5. Utilizes the Phoenix CAD and Teletype to query license plates, driver's license and criminal records.
  6. Utilize the "opticop" camera system to provide intelligence to officers responding to incidents; broadcast real-time to Officers as they occur. Monitor security cameras to watch for suspicious activity and crimes in progress; monitor cameras at schools and businesses.
  7. Enters of stolen vehicles, warrants and other information in to the State Crime Information Bureau (CIB) and National Crimes Information Center (NCIS) computer systems.
  8. Provides life safety and scene safety instructions using the Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) and/or Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) protocols.
  9. Prioritizes calls for service based on urgency and enter the proper code in the CAD system; assign personnel to calls based on the priority.
  10. Provides advice, information and conflict resolution to callers; assist Officers in negotiating during high risk calls.
  11. Keeps track of all officers, detective and fire apparatus; record their status and locations; monitors officers on the road to allow for reports, breaks and calls for service while maintaining adequate road strength.
  12. Utilizes "Alert Sense" notification system for call back of police, fire and public works personnel and for urgent community notifications.
  13. Monitors severe weather conditions and activates outdoor warning sirens when needed; alerts City personnel by radio.
  14. Performs weekly tests of outdoor sirens and reports status of tests to supervisor.
  15. Monitors the Crime Information Bureaus (CIB) teletype computer for messages.
  16. Confirms warrants and request warrant confirmation via the CIB Teletype system.
  17. Performs routine record checks for other City departments as requested.
  18. Performs weekly radio roll calls on the Statewide WISCOM radio system.
  19. Monitors prisoners in the jail and booking room with security cameras; alerts officers of problems.
  20. Manages the overnight parking complaint system.
  21. Monitors the front counter at the Police Department after hours; answers intercom and screens visitors; monitors alarm systems, electronic doors and other systems as instructed.
  22. Maintains lists of lost & found animals and repossessed vehicles.
  23. Cleans and sanitizes personal work area and floors.

Duties listed are not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Graduation from high school or equivalent required. One year of police and fire or EMS dispatch is preferred. TIME System, Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD), Emergency Fire Dispatch (EFD) and CPR certifications are preferred at time of hire, but in any event must be obtained within 12 months from date of hire to maintain employment. Failure to obtain required certifications will result in termination of employment.
Knowledge of
• Public safety regulations and procedures.
• Office practices and procedures, and the use of standard office equipment.
Ability to
• Calmly manage emergency calls and dispatch necessary personnel and apparatus to scene.
• Speak clearly and concisely with an articulate voice.
• Interact positively with the public under stressful conditions.
• Make decisions quickly and correctly.
• Operate Two-way radio system(s), telephone consoles, and other office Equipment.
Skill in
• Typing (minimum 35 wpm).
• Carrying out orders with precision and speed.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Work is performed mostly in an office setting; hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear; smell; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb or balance; stoop or kneel.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• The employee may be exposed to loud noises and other unpleasant situations, including violence.
Special Requirements:
  1. Must be able to successfully pass background investigations which include fingerprinting.
  2. Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screen and hearing test.
  3. Must be able to remain at a work station for long periods of time.
  4. Must be available to work any shift, including nights, weekends, holidays, during severe weather conditions and mandatory overtime to maintain minimum staffing levels.
  5. All applicants, including those with felony convictions, must receive clearance to access the Federal and State Criminal Justice Information Systems and other required law enforcement systems and records.

The City of Waukesha is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is not typical for someone to be hired at or near the top of the salary range. The specific compensation offered to a candidate is reviewed and based off a variety of factors including skills, qualifications, experience, certifications, and internal equity.
Internal City applicants: please review HR Policy F2 Salary Plan and Administration regarding promotions/transfers.
  • Insurance
    • Health
    • Dental
    • Life
    • Vision
  • Pension
  • Flexible Benefit Plan
  • AFLAC
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Deferred Compensation - 457(b) Plan
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - City of Waukesha employees may be eligible for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program

01
Are you 18 years of age or older?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you are multilingual, please list all languages you are fluent in.
04
Are you currently CPR certified?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you TIME certified?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Are you EMD certified?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Are you EFD certified?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Did you attach a current resume? (Required)
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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