Fire Alarm Dispatcher

Role Overview

This position centres on the real-time monitoring of fire alarm signals and the rapid coordination of emergency resources. Day to day, the dispatcher fields incoming calls, evaluates their urgency, and routes the appropriate firefighting units while keeping all responding teams informed with current information. The role is vital because a split-second delay or miscommunication can directly affect how quickly help reaches an incident, making calm, accurate decision-making essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Watch alarm system panels for incoming signals and act immediately in line with established emergency procedures.
• Answer emergency calls, assess the nature and priority of each incident, and assign fire department units accordingly.
• Use radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch software to manage communications and track unit movements.
• Provide ongoing updates to field crews about evolving conditions and resource availability during active incidents.
• Maintain detailed logs of every call received, unit dispatched, and response action taken for official records and reporting.
• Test and verify that alarm systems are functioning correctly, flagging any faults for prompt repair.
• Support the scheduling of routine alarm checks and system maintenance to minimise equipment downtime.
• Work closely with the wider fire and emergency team to ensure all communications remain clear and consistent during operations.

Requirements & Qualifications

• High school diploma or an accepted equivalent.
• Must obtain Telecommunicator I and II and Hazmat Awareness certifications within twelve months of starting the role, in line with applicable standards.
• One to three years of hands-on experience in emergency dispatch, fire service communications, or a closely related function.
• Ability to stay composed and focused under pressure, making fast yet accurate personnel assignments during emergencies.
• Proven skill in operating two-way radios, telephony systems, and computer-aided dispatch platforms.
• Strong organisational habits for keeping precise records of dispatch activity and alarm events.
• Excellent verbal communication to deliver instructions and updates that are clear, concise, and actionable.
• Must meet contract medical requirements and maintain compliance for the full deployment period.
• Able to obtain and hold facility security credentials or authorisation as required by the contract.
• Prior work in an austere OCONUS environment with a multi-national workforce (preferred).
• Valid driver’s licence for the host country (preferred).
• Possession of a country visa in accordance with the U.S. Department of State Foreign Clearance Guide (preferred).
• Experience in fire service dispatch for a government, military, or emergency response organisation (preferred).
• Familiarity with U.S. Navy or Department of Defence fire alarm and emergency dispatch procedures (preferred).
• Advanced certification or training in emergency dispatch, communications systems, or incident command (preferred).