Control officers

Have you ever wondered what happens when you dial 999 and ask for the Fire Brigade? Control officers are the first point of contact between the public needing assistance and our fire stations. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career, then this could be the job for you. 

Selection process

There is a three stage assessment process and you will need to achieve a successful standard at each stage in order to progress through to the next level. 

• Application form
• Variety of work related tests
• Interview

Offers of appointment are subject to a successful medical, references and other security checks. Successful applicants will undertake an intensive, assessed-base training course and will have to achieve competence before joining a watch.

Training

There is a 10 week training course where you will acquire all the skills necessary to deal effectively with calls. Professional trainers will encourage and build confidence to give you the skills and knowledge to work in a pressured environment. Key aspects:

• Processing address and incident information on a computer aided mobilising system.
• Learning how to use the Brigade’s radio system. 
• Gaining skills to help callers calm down when they are panicking and perhaps trapped in a burning building.
• Regular assessments to gauge progress.