Firefighter (Control)
| Posting date: | 16 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £28,865 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 28 September 2025 |
| Location: | Ipswich, IP1 5PB |
| Company: | Suffolk County Council |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 20589 |
Summary
- Suffolk County Council
- Firefighter Control Operators
- Location: Beacon House, Ipswich, IP1 5PB
- Salary: Firefighter (Control) in line with NJC Pay Scales
- Hours: Full-time (42 hours/week) including nights, weekends and bank holidays in a shift pattern of 2 days, 2 nights, 4 off)
- Contract: Permanent
Current vacancies:
- 1 x Full Time – Firefighter (Control)
All other successful candidates will be placed in our 12-month appointability pool and may be offered a position as further vacancies become available.
Job details:
Are you calm under pressure, quick-thinking, and passionate about helping others? Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is looking for motivated individuals to join our team as Fire Control Operators in our brand-new, state-of-the-art Fire Control Room in Ipswich.
This is your chance to be at the heart of emergency response in Suffolk, playing a vital role in saving lives and protecting communities. Our Fire Control Operators are the first point of contact in an emergency, responsible for the rapid and accurate mobilisation of fire and rescue resources across the county.
While previous experience in a similar role or within the fire service is a bonus, it’s not essential. We’re seeking people with the right mindset, strong personal qualities, and a genuine desire to learn and grow. If you’re driven, resilient, and ready to make a real difference, we want to hear from you.
Our control room operates 24/7, all year round, and serves as a critical link between the public and our operational firefighters. You will follow a Control Duty system. The shift pattern is based on an average of 42 hours per week, including weekends and bank holidays, based on 2 days (8 am - 6 pm), 2 nights (6 pm - 8 am) followed by 4 rest days.
Your responsibilities will include:
As a Fire Control Operator, you will be answering 999 calls, mobilising resources across Suffolk and liaising with senior fire officers, other agencies and emergency services.
- Answering 999 calls for emergencies and calmly gathering vital information from callers.
- Being the voice of reassurance while providing crucial safety advice and guidance until help arrives.
- Thinking fast and assessing situations to dispatch the most appropriate response, including fire crews or other emergency services.
- Working seamlessly as part of a team to ensure a swift and effective response.
- Using radio systems to provide critical support and updates to fire officers on the scene.
- Going beyond emergencies by tackling day to day tasks that keep the fire service running smoothly and prepared.
You will need:
- Excellent communication skills to build rapport and pass on information clearly, even in stressful situations.
- Superior multi-tasking skills to thrive in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
- A clear and decisive mind and be able to make quick decisions.
- Strong computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- A genuine desire to help others and positively impact your community.
- Robust resilience to meet the demanding nature of this crucial role.
- Fast and accurate keyboard skills.
- A confident telephone manner.
Previous experience in a similar role or the fire service is desirable, but not essential. We're looking for those with the right qualities and a willingness to learn.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (docx). If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this role, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report (suffolk.gov.uk).
For more information
Please visit our Suffolk Firefighters website (suffolk-firefighters.co.uk). If you have any questions or would like a casual conversation, please reach out to us at SFRS.Recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (docx).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Complete the Supporting Statement template indicating how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role (refer to the ‘Person Profile’ section of the JPP)
- Question 1: Describe a situation where you had to multitask while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. How did you prioritise and coordinate these tasks effectively?
- Question 2: Provide an example of when you remained calm and focused while dealing with a challenging or stressful situation. How did you manage your emotions and respond appropriately?
- Question 3: Describe a time when you had to communicate effectively with someone who was distressed or in an emergency situation. What did you do?
- Question 4: Describe a time when you had to liaise or coordinate with external agencies or partners. How did you effectively communicate and ensure a successful collaborative effort?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or calling 03456 014412. If you are invited to the next stage of selection, you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 28 September 2025.
Interview date: Week commencing 6 October 2025.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
up to 40 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata)
membership of a competitive Firefighters' Pension scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
eligibility for a Blue Light card
a lifetime of support from the Fire Firefighters Charity for you and your loved ones
family friendly policies, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave and pay
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
an annual cost-of-living pay increase
access to national training schemes facilitated by the Fire Service College, Women in the Fire Service and the Asian Fire Service Association
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
- Firefighter Control Operators
- Location: Beacon House, Ipswich, IP1 5PB
- Salary: Firefighter (Control) in line with NJC Pay Scales
- Hours: Full-time (42 hours/week) including nights, weekends and bank holidays in a shift pattern of 2 days, 2 nights, 4 off)
- Contract: Permanent
Current vacancies:
- 1 x Full Time – Firefighter (Control)
All other successful candidates will be placed in our 12-month appointability pool and may be offered a position as further vacancies become available.
Job details:
Are you calm under pressure, quick-thinking, and passionate about helping others? Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is looking for motivated individuals to join our team as Fire Control Operators in our brand-new, state-of-the-art Fire Control Room in Ipswich.
This is your chance to be at the heart of emergency response in Suffolk, playing a vital role in saving lives and protecting communities. Our Fire Control Operators are the first point of contact in an emergency, responsible for the rapid and accurate mobilisation of fire and rescue resources across the county.
While previous experience in a similar role or within the fire service is a bonus, it’s not essential. We’re seeking people with the right mindset, strong personal qualities, and a genuine desire to learn and grow. If you’re driven, resilient, and ready to make a real difference, we want to hear from you.
Our control room operates 24/7, all year round, and serves as a critical link between the public and our operational firefighters. You will follow a Control Duty system. The shift pattern is based on an average of 42 hours per week, including weekends and bank holidays, based on 2 days (8 am - 6 pm), 2 nights (6 pm - 8 am) followed by 4 rest days.
Your responsibilities will include:
As a Fire Control Operator, you will be answering 999 calls, mobilising resources across Suffolk and liaising with senior fire officers, other agencies and emergency services.
- Answering 999 calls for emergencies and calmly gathering vital information from callers.
- Being the voice of reassurance while providing crucial safety advice and guidance until help arrives.
- Thinking fast and assessing situations to dispatch the most appropriate response, including fire crews or other emergency services.
- Working seamlessly as part of a team to ensure a swift and effective response.
- Using radio systems to provide critical support and updates to fire officers on the scene.
- Going beyond emergencies by tackling day to day tasks that keep the fire service running smoothly and prepared.
You will need:
- Excellent communication skills to build rapport and pass on information clearly, even in stressful situations.
- Superior multi-tasking skills to thrive in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
- A clear and decisive mind and be able to make quick decisions.
- Strong computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- A genuine desire to help others and positively impact your community.
- Robust resilience to meet the demanding nature of this crucial role.
- Fast and accurate keyboard skills.
- A confident telephone manner.
Previous experience in a similar role or the fire service is desirable, but not essential. We're looking for those with the right qualities and a willingness to learn.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (docx). If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this role, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report (suffolk.gov.uk).
For more information
Please visit our Suffolk Firefighters website (suffolk-firefighters.co.uk). If you have any questions or would like a casual conversation, please reach out to us at SFRS.Recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (docx).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Complete the Supporting Statement template indicating how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role (refer to the ‘Person Profile’ section of the JPP)
- Question 1: Describe a situation where you had to multitask while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. How did you prioritise and coordinate these tasks effectively?
- Question 2: Provide an example of when you remained calm and focused while dealing with a challenging or stressful situation. How did you manage your emotions and respond appropriately?
- Question 3: Describe a time when you had to communicate effectively with someone who was distressed or in an emergency situation. What did you do?
- Question 4: Describe a time when you had to liaise or coordinate with external agencies or partners. How did you effectively communicate and ensure a successful collaborative effort?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or calling 03456 014412. If you are invited to the next stage of selection, you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 28 September 2025.
Interview date: Week commencing 6 October 2025.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
up to 40 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata)
membership of a competitive Firefighters' Pension scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
eligibility for a Blue Light card
a lifetime of support from the Fire Firefighters Charity for you and your loved ones
family friendly policies, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave and pay
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
an annual cost-of-living pay increase
access to national training schemes facilitated by the Fire Service College, Women in the Fire Service and the Asian Fire Service Association
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.