Fire Dispatcher

City of Saskatoon; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 73,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Saskatoon is seeking Emergency Communications Dispatchers (IAFF 80) to answer high-stress emergency calls, gather details, and direct responders. Under supervision, you will use ProQA and CAD, dispatch fire apparatus, and maintain records; requires Grade 12, typing 40 wpm, and ability to work 24-hour rotating shifts.

This 24-month temporary full-time position offers a competitive salary of CAD 72,543.60 to CAD 120,534 per year and a clear path through the City's diversity and

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education or equivalent.
• Typing speed 40 wpm.
• Two years dispatch, ProQA, or CAD experience.
• Successful completion of, or ability to complete, departmental training.
• IAED certifications preferred: EFD, EMPD, APCO Fire/Telecom courses.
• Knowledge of department communications protocols.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work rotating 24-hour shifts.
• Proficiency with CAD, ProQA, and Microsoft Office.
• Strong keyboarding accuracy.
• Ability to condense essential information and act decisively.
• Ability to work unsupervised and as part of the Emergency Communications Team.

Responsibilities

• Manage incoming emergency and non-emergency calls with calm professionalism.
• Gather information from callers using ProQA to determine location, chief complaint, hazards, and safety information.
• Dispatch the correct fire apparatus and backup units using CAD and radios.
• Relay real-time updates and safety instructions to field personnel and notify external agencies as required.
• Enter and maintain accurate CAD records of all dispatched incidents and unit movements.
• Maintain a clean, orderly Communications Centre.
• Perform routine clerical and statistical reporting duties.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Dispatch experience

Shift work capability

Keyboarding accuracy

Emergency response awareness

Education

Grade 12 education or equivalent

Tools

ProQA software

CAD software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Department:Operations and Communications

Term: Multiple TemporaryFull Time positions available for approximately 24 months.

Closing Date: 09/10/2026

Labour Group: IAFF 80

Posting: 5653

This position is a IAFF 80 position and will be filled in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Should it not be filled in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, external candidates will be considered.

Job Summary

Under supervision of the Assistant Deputy Chief, Emergency Communications, this position is a vital link between the public and first responders. The position is responsible for answering high-stress emergency calls, gather critical details, operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, and direction fire apparatus to emergency scenes safety and quickly.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Manages incoming emergency and non-emergency calls for service with a calm, professional demeanor.
• Gathers information from callers using the IAED Fire Priority Dispatch System ProQA (Professional Quality Assurance) software to ascertain location, chief complaint, hazards and safety information while providing lifesaving instructions if required.
• Dispatches correct fire apparatus, equipment, and backup units using CAD software and multi-channel radios.
• Relays real-time updates and safety instructions to active field Officers and firefighters and notifies external agencies as required.
• Enters and maintains clear, accurate computerized records of all dispatched incidents and unit movements in CAD.
• Maintains the Communications Centre in an clean, orderly fashion.
• Performs routine clerical and statistical reporting duties.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education or equivalent.
• Typing speed of 40 w.p.m.
• Two years' related dispatch, ProQA software, or computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems experience.
• Successful completion of, or ability to complete successfully, the Departmental training program.
• Preference will be given to candidates with the following certification:
  • IAED Emergency Fire Dispatch Certification
  • IAED Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification
  • APCO Public Safety Telecommunicator Course
  • APCO Fire Communications Course
• Knowledge of Department communications protocols and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with others via radio, telephone and in written form.
• Ability to effectively work rotating shifts in a 24-hour operation.
• Ability to operate all equipment in the Communications Centre.
• Skill in the operation of a computer with Microsoft Office software.
• Strong keyboarding skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle complex communication functions in stressful, time sensitive situations.
• Ability to read and interpret dangerous goods information.
• Ability to adapt to changing communication technology.
• Ability to analyze situations effectively and assume initiative for appropriate action in accordance with Department policies and procedures.
• Ability to condense essential information for a concise information relay.
• Ability to work unsupervised and as a member of the Emergency Communications Team.

Requires Security Check

Ability to pass the Saskatoon Police Service security clearance process.

Additional Requirements

Weekly Hours:42

Salary Range:$72,543.60to$120,534.00 CADper annum (2023rates)

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The City of Saskatoon offers an inclusive workplace that embraces diverse backgrounds. As an equity partner with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC), the City commits to diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplaces. By having our workforce reflect the community we serve, we support the realization of miyo-pimatisiwin, (me-o-pi-ma-ti-si-win) "the good life", for all residents. To learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the City, please visit Saskatoon.ca/diversity

Accommodation

The City of Saskatoon strives to provide an accessible and inclusive workplace for all, including throughout the application and selection process through reasonable access and accommodations. Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please email [e-mail].

While we appreciate all applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

Our Recruitment Process: Application > Posting Closes > Resume Review > Pre-screen/Interview > Offer > Pre-Employment Conditions > Welcome to the City