Fire Dispatcher: Critical Incident Communications

County Emergency Communications; De Smet (SD); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Retirement programs

Paid leave

Employee-support services

Professional development

Job summary

County Emergency Communications in De Smet, SD seeks a Fire Dispatcher to coordinate responses to fires, rescues, and hazards. You will receive incident information, alert resources, and maintain contact with responding crews.

This role requires precise data handling, calm radio communication, and adherence to response plans. Applicants should be comfortable with computer systems, maps, and EMS dispatch training may be preferred. Work may include night shifts and overtime during major incidents.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or recognized equivalency credential is 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

Job description

County Emergency Communications in De Smet, SD seeks a Fire Dispatcher to coordinate responses to fires, rescues, and hazards. You will receive incident information, alert resources, and maintain contact with responding crews.

This role requires precise data handling, calm radio communication, and adherence to response plans. Applicants should be comfortable with computer systems, maps, and EMS dispatch training may be preferred. Work may include night shifts and overtime during major incidents.