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The job of a fire dispatcher is often challenging, fast-paced, and no two days are alike. When a 9-1-1 call comes in, it could be anything from a house on fire to a minor vehicle accident. Our dispatchers are the vital link between the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and the residents and visitors in our communities who need help.
Fire dispatchers operate some of the most advanced telecommunications equipment available today and receive extensive training in order to provide emergency medical instructions over the phone for situations like CPR or childbirth.
Our dispatchers are truly the “first” first responders!
If you’re ready to begin a challenging yet rewarding career as a fire dispatcher, learn more about our application process.
Job Responsibilities
Answer incoming emergency and non-emergency calls
Evaluate and prioritize emergency responses
Provide lifesaving medical instructions
Dispatch fire and medical units
Keep incident records and fulfill resource requests
Assist with incident management
Monitor and communicate on multiple radio frequencies
Dispatcher I
$53,851*
While in the Academy:
Get paid to learn how to take 9-1-1 calls and give emergency medical instructions for the ninth largest city in the U.S.
Dispatcher II
$59,009*
While a Trainee:
After six months on the job, paired full time with a communications training officer.
Fire Dispatcher
$65,104*
Fully Qualified Dispatcher:
After completion of the full training program
Step Increases ~5% per year
Full-time dispatchers receive a merit increase each year they are in the same position.
*Includes 17.5% incentive for Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification
Dispatcher I and II are initial entry and training classifications. Fully qualified dispatchers will generally advance to fire dispatcher within the first 18 months of employment.