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Fire Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Ambulance

Dispatcher

Fresno, CA · On-site

$19.45 - $25.55/hr

Conduct medical and fire interrogation, provide pre-arrival instructions, and accurately enter all pertinent information into the computer system. Work in close coordination with Dispatcher II and ...

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

$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 · 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 ...

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 ...

CONFIRE JPA

Dispatcher

Rialto, CA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

This position is responsible for dispatching County fire, emergency medical and local government services. Responsibilities include monitoring the radios, communication equipment, and personnel, and ...

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Fire Dispatcher information

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$37.5K

$56.4K

$73.5K

How much do fire dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 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.

Is being a fire dispatcher hard?

Fire dispatchers coordinate emergency responses by answering calls, providing instructions, and relaying information to firefighters and paramedics. 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 such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) or Public Safety Telecommunicator certification. The job demands strong communication skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and familiarity with dispatch software; some agencies also require background checks and a high school diploma or equivalent. The difficulty varies depending on individual aptitude and the specific agency's requirements.

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.

How to start dispatcher with no experience?

To become a fire dispatcher with no experience, focus on developing strong communication and multitasking skills, and consider completing relevant training or certification programs such as Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). Many dispatch centers hire entry-level candidates and provide on-the-job training, so applying for open positions and demonstrating reliability and calmness under pressure can help you start in this role.

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.

What is the highest paying dispatcher job?

The highest paying dispatcher jobs are often in specialized fields such as airline or emergency medical dispatchers, with airline dispatchers earning salaries exceeding $100,000 annually due to required certifications and extensive training. Fire dispatchers typically earn competitive wages, but specialized roles with additional responsibilities or certifications tend to offer higher pay.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,370 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Seasonal Dispatch Positions - Grangeville

LUMA

Grangeville, ID • On-site

$16.39/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Idaho Department of Lands
Seasonal Dispatch Positions - Grangeville
If you have previously applied for a position, select Reset/Forgot Password and follow the prompts to access your account. For additional assistance, refer to the Candidate Guide located under Candidate Resources on the State of Idaho Careers page.
Positions last 3 to 8 months, starting as early as April 2026 and ending as late as November 2026, depending on the role and state needs. To learn more about these exciting opportunities, please visit our website: https://www.idl.idaho.gov/
For area contact information, please visit our website: https://www.idl.idaho.gov/about-us/supervisory-areas/
*Please include 3 references along with your resume.
Physical Requirements:
Perform stressful work for extended periods of time, to including monitoring multiple radio channels, data entry, sending resources to incidents, and tracking resources for 8-16 hours a day.
Fire Dispatcher Positions
Pay: Starting rate is $16.39 per hour, depending on experience.
Primary Duties:
  • Provide coordinated dispatch and tracking of resources for fire preparedness, suppression, and prescribed fire activities.
  • Coordinate the availability and use of personnel and equipment between incident commanders, field units, districts, and agencies.
  • Set priorities for suppression in multiple fire situations, considering safety, resource values, and costs.
  • Receive incident reports and initiate proper responses.
  • Serve as a communication link for firefighters and field personnel.
  • Compile, organize, and review records; process, interpret, and relay weather information.
  • Utilize fire-related computer applications such as IROC and WildCAD.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • No previous wildland fire suppression experience required.
  • Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively.
  • Must learn to use multi-channel radios, multi-line phones, and computers, keep accurate records, and read maps.
  • Must successfully complete training to qualify as a National Interagency Incident Management System (NIIMS) Initial Attack Dispatcher (IADP).
  • Must perform sedentary work in a high-stress environment for up to 16 hours per day, with varying shifts and on-call periods.
  • Must be willing to work for up to 14 days at a time (required in some locations).
  • A valid driver's license may be required for some jobs.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.

Lead Dispatcher
Primary Duties:
  • Provide leadership and direction to entry-level Initial Attack dispatchers.
  • Oversee dispatch operations in an assigned zone, ensuring efficient resource allocation and communication.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Same as above Fire Dispatcher qualifications, with demonstrated leadership ability and experience managing dispatch operations.

EEO/ADA/Veteran:
The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

About Luma

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Monica, CA, US

Year founded

2002

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