Fire Dispatcher - Emergency Communications Specialist

County Emergency Communications; Bedford (Bedford County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

County Emergency Communications is seeking qualified fire dispatchers to coordinate responses to fires, rescues, hazardous conditions, and other emergencies. Dispatchers will receive incident information, alert resources, and maintain communication with responding crews.

The role emphasizes accurate data handling, radio discipline, and adherence to established response plans, while remaining available for variable shifts, including nights and weekends.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or recognized equivalency credential.
• Some employers provide entry-level instruction; others seek experienced dispatchers with fire communications training.
• Comfort with computer systems, accurate data entry, maps, and radio communication.

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.

Skills

Organized information handling

Clear radio communication

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Computer systems

Maps

Radio communication equipment

Job description

County Emergency Communications is seeking qualified fire dispatchers to coordinate responses to fires, rescues, hazardous conditions, and other emergencies. Dispatchers will receive incident information, alert resources, and maintain communication with responding crews.

The role emphasizes accurate data handling, radio discipline, and adherence to established response plans, while remaining available for variable shifts, including nights and weekends.