Communicator (Part-Time)

City-of-Orilli; Central Ontario; On-site; CAD 49,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Orillia is hiring a Communicator (Part-Time) to perform 9-1-1 call-taking duties for the Public Service Answering Point and dispatch for the Orillia Fire Department. The role reports to the Captain or Acting Captain and requires on-site work with rotating shifts.

A recognized Emergency Communications program is preferred, along with APCO/NFPA certifications. Salary ranges from CAD 35.72 to 38.03 per hour, with a commitment to inclusivity and accommodations in the hiring process.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent as approved by Ontario Ministry of Education.
• Completion of a recognized Emergency Communications Services program.
• APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator 1 and NFPA 1225 Telecommunicator preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process 9-1-1 calls and dispatch fire department staff in line with department policies.
• Provide logistical support and document incident information chronologically.
• Maintain radio communications and ensure equipment functionality and information flow.
• Perform public relations by presenting a professional image to the public and media.

Skills

Strong computer skills

Clear communication

Prioritization & multitasking

Calm under pressure

Education

Grade 12 diploma

Emergency Communications Services program

APCO/NFPA preferred

Job description

The City of Orillia is hiring a

Communicator (Part-Time)

The City of Orillia is less than 90 minutes from the Greater Toronto Area. Even though growth and progress have been strong in recent years, the Sunshine City has worked hard to retain the small-town charm that has captivated generations. The quality of life is unbeatable in this city surrounded by two lakes, where outdoor pursuits are available in all seasons and are enjoyed by both visitors and residents.

The City does not use artificial intelligence in the hiring process. All job applications are reviewed personally by the appropriate Department / Division. This position is for an existing vacancy.

Reporting to the Captain or Acting Captain, the Communicator performs 9-1-1 call-taking duties for the City of Orillia Public Service Answering Point and dispatches for Orillia Fire Department staff.

Preferred candidates should possess a recognized Emergency Communications Services program. APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator 1 and NFPA 1225 Telecommunicator 2 or willing to obtain.

The City of Orillia offers a competitive salary and registration with the OMERS Pension Plan. The hourly rate for this position is $35.72 to $38.03 based on an annual salary.

November 2, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Note: The City of Orillia is committed to an inclusive, barrier-free environment. Accommodation will be provided in all steps of the hiring process. Please advise the City of Orillia Human Resources Department if you require any accommodations to ensure you can participate fully and equally during the recruitment and selection process. We thank all applicants that apply and advise that only those to be interviewed will be contacted. In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act 2001,S.O. 2001, c. 25., and will be used for the purpose of candidate selection. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Freedom of Information Coordinator, City of Orillia, 50 Andrew St. S., Orillia ON L3V 7T5.

Position Synopsis and Purpose

The Communicator performs 9-1-1 call-taking duties for the City of Orillia Public Service Answering Point and dispatches for Orillia Fire Department staff.

Major Responsibilities

Description

Approx. Time

Customer Service

• Process emergency calls by acknowledging requests for assistance, assessing incident information, determining initial course of action and dispatching fire department apparatus so that the response complies with department policies.
• Provide logistical support to incidents by recording information chronologically, processing requests for assistance and relaying information so that support is in accordance with department policies.
• Maintain radio communication by broadcasting, monitoring and receiving and logging radio transmissions so that equipment is operational and information relayed through radio equipment systems can be received and documented in accordance with department policies.
• Perform Public Relations by exhibiting a professional image while interacting with the public and the media so that the needs of both are met in accordance with department policies.

70%

Policies and Administration

• Perform administrative duties by preparing correspondence, forms and reports, answering emergency lines and training new employees so that the service level of fire service is maintained in a professional maner.
• Process incident documentation by logging, completing, verifying, distributing and filing reports so that accurate and complete records are established in accordance with department policies.
• Maintainprofessional currency by attending courses and seminars, reading journals and professional publications, reviewing department policies and participating in professional organization and in-house training so that the communicator remains current with departmental practices, personal development is valued and undertaken and professional competence is maintained.
• Assist in the maintenance of all emergency communication center equipment and facilities such as radio and telephone systems by testing all equipment, logging malfunctions and arranging for repairs so that the communication center remains in an operational state at all times in accordance with department policies.
• MaintainInformation systems by creating, updating and reviewing computer databases so that information system is current, accurate, readily accessible and back-up information is secured.

30%

Note: All activities are expected to be performed in a safe manner, in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its Regulations, along with Corporate Safety policies, procedures and programs. In addition, all necessary personal protective equipment must be used and maintained in good condition.

Minimum Qualifications

Education (degree/diploma/certifications)

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent as appoved by Ontario Ministry of Education.
• Completion of a recognized Emergency Communications Services program.
• APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator 1 and NFPA 1225 Telecommunicator preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Ability

• Strong computer skills and experience in Microsoft Office and Windows operating systems.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively over the telephone and radio.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and multi-task including handling both call-taking and dispatching functions using computer aided dispatch and radio communication systems.
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

Physical Demands

• Requires sitting for extended periods of time in a standard office environment with continual visual concentration, as well as mental stress/pressure when dealing with emergency situations.

Position Requirements

• Required to work onsite and work on rotating shifts, including days, nights, weekends and holidays.
• Valid Class ‘G’ Ontario Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle.
• A current and acceptable Criminal Record Check is required prior to the employment commencement date.

Position Classification

Division: N/A

Classification: Casual Employee

Reports to (Direct): Captain or Acting Captain

Position(s) Supervised Directly: N/A

Position(s) Supervised Indirectly: N/A

Effective Date: October 13, 2026

Revision Date: N/A

Salary Range: Communicators - OPFFA Salary Schedule

Hours per Week: Will vary based on operational requirements