Control Room Operator

About the Service

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (HIWFRS) operates within the NFSP (Networked Fire Services Partnership) to enable the effective and efficient delivery of many services to the communities of Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Our service is one of the busiest Fire and Rescue services in the UK, serving a population of nearly 2 million people and employing around 1,700 people (85% firefighters, 15% support staff).

About the Role

We are recruiting permanent Control Room Operators for the modern, recently refurbished Control Room at the Fire Service Headquarters. Control is a central command and control room for emergency fire calls across Hampshire and Isle of Wight, working in partnership with the Fire Controls in Dorset, Wiltshire, Devon & Somerset, and Kent.

Control is crewed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, achieved by a four watch roving shift pattern averaging 42 hours per week. This consists of two 9.5 hour day shifts, followed by two 14.5 hour night shifts, followed by four days off. Operators must be able to work a regular pattern of days, nights, weekends, and bank holidays.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer emergency '999' calls from the public and respond positively to stressful situations.
• Display a confident telephone manner and excellent communication skills.
• Think and communicate quickly and clearly.
• Use computer and typing skills; ideally with Control Room experience.
• Mobilise appropriate emergency resources to resolve situations quickly.
• Arrange ongoing support at operational incidents to minimise loss of life and damage to property.
• Work as part of a team in a pressurised environment.

Training & Equipment

Full training and a uniform will be provided.

Eligibility

• Must be aged 18 or older.
• Must have 5 GCSEs A -C (9-4) including Maths and English, or equivalent.
• Must have Right to Work in the UK.
• Must be able to work shifts including nights, weekends, and bank holidays.
• Standard DBS Check required.

Benefits

• 32 shifts of annual leave, rising to 35 after 5 years of service, plus bank holidays when not on rotation.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Work within a friendly and supportive team.
• Training and development opportunities; role progression options.
• Access to internal network groups.
• Free on site parking.
• Free access to on site gym.
• Emergency Services retail and leisure discounts, including Blue Light Card.

Additional Information

HIWFRS values: Reaching Further - Inspiring and challenging ourselves and others; Showing Respect - Fairness, honesty and integrity in everything we say and do; Supporting Others - Listening and acting with compassion and empathy; Everyone Playing Their Part - Recognising the contribution we all make.

EEO Statement

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. All employees, workers and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. We ensure that our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. Corporate Equalities Employment Policy: All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs; no applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of gender, disability, age, ethnicity or national origin, marital status, creed, sexuality, trade union activity or responsibility for dependants unless a Genuine Occupational Qualification applies.

Contact

Michael Carpenter, Control Room Manager -