CLK 12R - Dispatcher

British Columbia Public Service Careers; Parksville; On-site; CAD 58,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

BC Public Service – Coastal Fire Centre is looking for a Dispatcher to manage emergency response for wildfires across British Columbia. You will receive fire reports, handle multiple radio channels, and ensure safety protocols for crews and equipment are followed under high-pressure conditions.

The role requires attention to detail, endurance for long shifts, and the ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and standby periods, at an on-site location within the Coastal Fire Centre.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 or equivalent.
• Typing speed 50 words per minute or greater.
• Experience in a demanding environment with strict timelines.
• Experience in an office and team setting.
• Experience in records management or filing.
• Experience in emergency response or dispatch.
• Experience with computers and digital systems.
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite.
• Flexibility regarding evolving responsibilities and corporate structures.
• Willingness to undergo in-house training and certification.
• Ability to fly in aircraft as required.
• Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, and standby with short notice.
• Willingness to travel and overnight in remote locations.

Responsibilities

• Receive and respond to fire reports and manage emergency communications.
• Monitor safety procedures for personnel and equipment.
• Coordinate radio communications and incident information during wildfire events.
• Support tactical evacuations and medical evacuations when needed.

Skills

Typing 50 wpm

Demonstrated experience in demanding,高

Education

Grade 12 or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

CLK 12R - Dispatcher - (126147)

Salary Range: $57,699.62 - $65,135.07 annually

Close Date: 10/18/2026

Job Type: Regular Full Time

Ministry/Organization: BC Public Service -> Ministry of Forests

Position Classification: Union

GEU

Work Options: On-Site

The Team

We are excited to welcome new members to the Coastal Fire Centre Dispatch team, comprised of one dispatch supervisor, two dispatch leads, and ten dispatchers. Our established team plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of our crews and aircraft by working closely with aircraft personnel, operations staff, and fire centre teams. We value a diverse and inclusive environment where attention to detail and the ability to thrive under pressure are appreciated, making a meaningful impact on our operations and the communities we serve.

The Role

As a Dispatcher at the Coastal Fire Centre, you will play a vital role in managing emergency response for wildfire situations across British Columbia. Your responsibilities will include receiving and responding to fire reports, handling multiple radio communications, and monitoring safety procedures for personnel and equipment. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, multi-tasking skills and the ability to work effectively and efficiently under pressure, as you’ll be juggling multiple demands and time-sensitive requests throughout the day. Join us to make a significant impact on community safety and contribute to our province's commitment to wildfire management and emergency response, all while being part of a diverse and inclusive team.

Is a career in wildfire dispatch right for me ?

You will be the critical communication link for crews in the field during intense fire activity, including tactical evacuations, loss of property, and emergency medical evacuations for injured personnel in remote areas. Your ability to remain calm, focused, and responsive under pressure directly supports the safety and success of wildfire response personnel.

This role demands exceptional attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently under pressure as you manage multiple demands and time-sensitive requests throughout the day. You must be able to stay productive during quieter periods and respond to increased intensity and job demands at a moment’s notice. Our team is diverse, inclusive, and committed to supporting one another through the challenges and rewards of wildfire response. Join us to make a meaningful impact on wildfire operations and be part of a team that values resilience, collaboration, and respect.

What to Expect

Training is intensive and requires rapid learning and retention of large volumes of information. The work is demanding, with long hours, unexpected overtime, and standby shifts where you must be able to report to work within 30 minutes of notification.

You will be expected to:

• Stay calm and focused in high-pressure, high-stakes situations
• Adapt quickly to changing priorities and operational demands
• Maintain accuracy and composure during emergencies
• Work long stretches of time (up to 14 days) repeatedly, with minimal time off during peak wildfire season
• Stay engaged and productive during slower periods, ready to respond immediately when activity increases

Qualifications: Education and Experience Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent

• Demonstrated typing speed of 50 words per minute or greater
• Experience working in a demanding environment with strict timelines
• Experience working in an office and team setting
• Experience in records management or filing
• Experience in emergency response or dispatch
• Experience working with computers and digital systems
• Experience working with Microsoft Office suite
• Valid Class 5 driver's licence
• To be flexible regarding ongoing changes in responsibilities, assignments, and corporate structures
• To keep current on emerging issues
• To take in-house training and certification as required
• To fly in aircraft (fixed wing and rotary) as required
• To work extended hours, including weekends, and be on standby with limited notice in accordance with the preparedness plan
• To travel and/or overnight in remote locations where accommodations may vary as required
• To participate in Incident Command System positions as assigned
• To work under adverse or stressful conditions, including smoke, extreme heat and mountainous terrain in remote and isolated conditions

About this Position

Two positions are available.

These positions require full-time, in-person work at the physical location listed.

An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and/or permanent vacancies.

A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.

Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.

Working for the BC Public Service

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.

The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Inuit or Métis) applicants originating from the land now known as Canada, seeking work or already employed in the BC Public Service. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.

Join the BC Public Service, a Canada’s Top 100 Employers award winner that offers diverse career opportunities in more than 200 occupations across 280 communities throughout British Columbia. You'll enjoy competitive benefits, a healthy work-life balance, and meaningful work that supports your professional growth. Build your career in beautiful British Columbia.