Fire Control - The Role

Yes, although some services have joint control rooms. For example, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service share a combined fire control based at a fire station in Derby.

North West Fire Control is a dedicated public sector organisation established by the fire and rescue services in the North West. It manages all 999 emergency calls for Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, and operates the largest geographical control area in England.

A list of fire control webpages can be found at Fire Control Areas

No – While the title includes “firefighter”, working in fire control is a specialist role focused on emergency call handling and incident management, rather than operational firefighting. You will not be required to complete the physical firefighter tests – instead, your expertise will be in critical communication, rapid decision-making, and coordinating life-saving resources.

No – It is important to note that this role does not serve as a direct pathway to becoming an operational firefighter. Individuals interested in pursuing a firefighter position must apply separately and meet the specific requirements of that role.

Working in fire control is an incredible way to understand how the fire service operates and gain valuable insight into the vital role in emergency response.

There is no upper age limit, and we welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds. You must, however, be at least 18 years old on the day your contract begins.

Some services do require a valid driving licence as part of their entry standards, so it is important to check with your local service. If a licence is not required, you will need to ensure you can reliably travel to the control room for your shifts by whatever means suits you best.

Many services ask for a certain level of qualifications as part of their entry standards. Please check with your local service for specific details. If you have the right entry standards, skills, commitment, and attitude, we want to hear from you.

Not necessarily. Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from working in the fire service. Each case is considered individually and will depend on the type of conviction and when it occurred. You must declare any unspent criminal convictions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. This includes any offences dealt with by a court of law, military disciplinary action, or driving offences.

Yes. Every service uses a series of assessments to ensure candidates have the skills, behaviours, and aptitude needed for this critical role. These assessments are designed to identify your strengths and suitability for a fast-paced, decision-making environment.

Yes. You will be issued with a uniform that reflects the professionalism of the role and gives you a real sense of pride, identity, and belonging within the fire and rescue service.

Yes. Several services offer the Emergency contact handler / Skills England apprenticeship for fire control operators. Please check with your local service to see if this route is available.

Vacancies are advertised on local fire and rescue service websites, on the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) website under Jobs – NFCC, and in some cases on job sites. Keep an eye on these platforms for the latest opportunities.

Most services require candidates to complete a medical assessment as part of the entry standards. This is to ensure you are fit to perform the duties of the role. The medical may include checks such as hearing and eyesight tests, height and weight measurements, drug and alcohol test, and blood pressure. Please check with your local service.

We are committed to equality and diversity and welcome applications from everyone, including those with disabilities or medical conditions. Each case is assessed, and we will make reasonable adjustments wherever possible to support you throughout the process and in the role.

You will undergo a medical assessment as part of the entry standards, which includes your hearing. Many people with hearing impairments successfully work in fire control. The service will explore reasonable adjustments where possible to ensure you can perform the role effectively.

Yes, you can apply if you wear glasses. You will undergo an eye test to assess if you need any additional resources.

The fire sector welcomes applications who are neurodivergent. Applicants should indicate any neurodiverse needs on their application form to ensure they receive appropriate support during the recruitment process and, if successful, throughout their employment. This enables the fire and rescue service to make any necessary adjustments and provide support, especially during the recruitment process.

This also applies to those with dyslexia. You will need to declare this on your application form so that reasonable adjustments can be made. For example, at the technical testing stage, additional time may be given if you can provide appropriate evidence from a qualified specialist confirming your dyslexia.

Fire control operates 24/7, which means working a rotating shift pattern, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, examples being Christmas and New Year. The exact pattern may vary between services, but you will always have a structured rota so you can plan. Please check with your local service on their shift pattern.

Fire control is a round-the-clock service, so shift work is an essential part of the role. While the hours can sometimes be demanding, many people find that the extended rest periods and regular time off help them enjoy a better work-life balance. The flexibility of shift work suits a wide range of lifestyles, whether you are a parent, carer, or simply prefer varied hours. It can also help households manage family life more easily with alternating schedules.

Yes. You will receive a comprehensive, structured training programme designed to give you all the skills and confidence you need to excel in this critical role. From handling emergency calls to using advanced technology and supporting operational crews, our training ensures you are fully prepared to make a real difference

Training is delivered in your fire control environment, giving you direct experience with the systems and procedures you will use every day. Ongoing training and development opportunities may take place in different location and require residential stayover on occasions.

Initial training varies in each service, but typically lasts between 4 and 14 weeks, followed by a period of workplace-based training. This programme combines theoretical instruction, practical application, and self-directed learning, with progress monitored through regular assessments.

After gaining experience, you can progress to roles such as crew manager (control), watch manager (control), or even station manager (control). Your salary will increase as you progress.

The current initial development salary starts at £28,865 (01 July 2025). It then increases to £36,937 for Competent. This is in line with the annual pay reviews set out by the Local Government Association Pay (Appendix C). Due to their different structure and governance arrangements, North West Fire Control and London Fire Brigade have a different salary structure.

Please visit your fire and rescue service/fire control website for the exact arrangements.

Yes. From your first day, you will be automatically enrolled into the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). Your service will also contribute to your pension, giving you peace of mind for the future. However, you can ‘opt out’ of this.

There is no such thing as a “typical” shift in fire control – and that is what makes it so exciting. While there are daily routines and checks, every day brings something different. From supporting crews at a major incident to providing calm reassurance to someone in distress, no two shifts are ever the same. This is a role for people who thrive in dynamic, unpredictable situations.

No, fire control personnel liaise with police, ambulance, and a variety of other agencies but we only manage calls for the fire service. Occasionally, we receive calls intended for other emergency services, but these are always redirected quickly to the appropriate agency.

There are plenty of national and local staff networks you can ask to join. Please visit your fire and rescue service website to find out more details.