Fire Dispatcher

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

Job summary

The City of Saskatoon is seeking an Emergency Communications Dispatcher to serve as a vital link between the public and first responders. You will answer high-stress emergency calls, gather critical details, and direct fire apparatus to scenes safely and quickly.

You will use IAED ProQA and CAD systems to determine priorities, relay instructions, and coordinate with field officers and external agencies. This role requires rotation through 24-hour shifts and strong attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education or equivalent.
• Typing speed of 40 w.p.m.
• Two years' dispatch or CAD/ProQA experience.
• Completion of departmental training or ability to complete.

Responsibilities

• Answer high-stress emergency calls with calm professionalism.
• Gather caller information using ProQA to determine location and hazards.
• Dispatch fire apparatus and backup units via CAD and radios.
• Provide real-time updates to field officers and coordinate with external agencies.
• Maintain accurate CAD records and perform routine clerical duties.
• Adhere to departmental communications protocols and procedures.
• Rotate shifts in a 24-hour operation.

Skills

Typing 40 wpm

ProQA software experience

CAD dispatch systems

Radio communications

Microsoft Office

Attention to detail

Education

Grade 12 education or equivalent

Tools

IAED ProQA

CAD software

Multi-channel radios

Job description

Department:Operations and Communications

Closing Date: 09/30/2026

Labour Group: IAFF 80

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.

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