Critical Fire Dispatcher - Precise Emergency Communications

County Emergency Communications; Ashland (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Retirement programs

Paid leave

Professional development

Job summary

County Emergency Communications in Ashland, VA seeks a Fire Dispatcher to coordinate responses, log incidents, alert units, and maintain clear radio communications with responding crews.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, comfort with computer systems, data entry, maps, and radio communication. Some positions may require fire dispatch or EMS training and relevant certifications.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or recognized equivalency credential commonly required.
• Some employers provide entry-level instruction; others seek experienced dispatchers with fire communications training.
• Applicants should be comfortable with computer systems, accurate data entry, maps, and radio communication.
• Fire dispatch certification, emergency medical dispatch training, or incident-management coursework may be required for particular assignments.

Responsibilities

• Receive and document reports of fires, rescues, alarms, and hazardous conditions
• Verify incident locations, access information, and reported risks
• Alert stations and dispatch apparatus using approved response assignments
• Monitor radio channels, unit availability, and incident status
• Relay information about occupants, hazards, and changing conditions
• Process requests for additional resources through established procedures
• Coordinate mutual-aid communications when assigned
• Record dispatch times, unit movements, and significant incident updates

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

County Emergency Communications in Ashland, VA seeks a Fire Dispatcher to coordinate responses, log incidents, alert units, and maintain clear radio communications with responding crews.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, comfort with computer systems, data entry, maps, and radio communication. Some positions may require fire dispatch or EMS training and relevant certifications.