Firefighter (Control)

• 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 asFire Control Operatorsin our brand-new state-of-the-artFire Control Roomin 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 its not essential. We are seeking people with theright mindsetstrong personal qualities and agenuine desire to learn and grow. If you are 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. Were looking for those with the right qualities and a willingness to learn.

You can view a full list of requirements in theJob and Person Profile (docx).If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this role even if you dont meet all the requirements please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

Empowering Everyone

We are big believers in potential possibility and the power of different ideas. We are 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 ourWorkforce Equality Report ().

For more information

Please visit ourSuffolk Firefighters website (). If you have any questions or would like a casual conversation please reach out to us at:

How to apply

Step 1 -Read theJob and Person Profile (docx).

Step 2 -Click Apply Now to start your online application.

Step 3 -Complete theSupporting Statement templateindicating how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role (refer to the Person Profile sectionof theJPP)

• 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:or calling.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.

Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.

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.