At a Glance
- Tasks: Take 999 calls and mobilise firefighters to respond to emergencies.
- Company: Join the London Fire Brigade, the UK's busiest Fire and Rescue Service.
- Benefits: Enjoy a starting salary of £38,420.66, free gym access, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping save lives in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be eligible to work in the UK and demonstrate strong communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with a three on-three off pattern; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 31400 - 43000 £ per year.
999 Control Officer – London Fire Brigade
The London Fire Brigade is the busiest Fire and Rescue Service in the UK, taking over 200,000 999 calls a year.
Servicing the nation’s Capital is a task like no other, aside from the many major events that our Control room supports, such as Pride in London, Notting Hill Carnival and the State Opening of Parliament, we respond to calls for help from two major airports, 272 Underground stations, 334 train Stations, 84 hospitals and 8.9 million Londoners. The variety of incidents that we attend is unmatched elsewhere.
We are looking for Control Officers to join our team. Working on one of six watches you will take 999 calls and mobilise Firefighters from 102 Fire Stations and our River Station. Once we have arrived on scene, you will work with Officers and partner agencies to safely resolve an incident. During less busy periods you may be undertaking watch-based training or supporting Firefighters in a Fire Survival Guidance exercise.
Our purpose-built Control room is based in Merton, South West London. We offer a generous starting salary as well as many benefits, including a free on-site gym, cooking and rest facilities. For those looking to progress their careers in the future, we offer the chance to train as a National Control Liaison Officer or alternatively you may choose to work with our Training Team, Control Operational Resourcing and Event Team or Business Services Team.
Our team works across six watches, following a three on – three off shift pattern, a 12 hour day shift (08:00-20:00), an eight hour mid shift (08:00-16:00 or 14:00-22:00) and a 12 hour night shift (20:00-08:00), followed by three days off.
We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate our values, Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Equity, Courage and Learning. Giving the best service to Londoners means that we have to be dynamic in our approach, candidates should be open to change and continuous professional development.
Is this the career for you?
• Would you like a role that is fulfilling which helps saves lives?
• Could you talk someone through their most distressing moments whilst being calm and compassionate?
• Could you work flexibly on a day and night shift pattern, including some holidays and celebrations?
• Are you able to communicate clearly and follow systems under intense pressure?
• Do you like working as part of a team?
If you answered yes and think you have what it takes, then we would love to hear from you.
Successful candidates will need to attend training course up to eleven weeks held Monday to Friday and will be subject to a nine-month probationary period.
Further information about the main duties and responsibilities of the role are detailed in the job description. If you are unable to see the job description please visit our jobs pages at to access the full advert.
We value the diversity of our employees and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across London. The London Fire Commissioner is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we positively welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, irrespective of people’s age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.
In order to apply, you must meet the following criteria at the point of application:
• Be eligible to live and work in the UK without restrictions
• Not have any live formal disciplinary sanctions
• Not be in a formal capability process
• Be medically fit to undertake the role
The role will also require an enhanced DBS check.
Assessment Overview
The selection process will be as follows:
Stage 1 Online application and CV. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to stage 2.
Online application form and evidence to demonstrate and promote values outlined in the job profile and LFB values
1 – The ability to communicate professionally with colleagues and members of the public.
2 – How you have demonstrated your commitment to personal development and learning in current/previous roles or education.
To apply, please complete the online application, provide evidence of the above LFB Values and upload a copy of your up-to-date CV.
Please ensure you give yourself enough time to complete and submit your application.
Late or un-submitted applications cannot be accepted.
Please note any correspondence received from us will be via e-mail and sent to the address you provide on your application form.
Stage 2
Online Simucall assessment
Candidates can either complete the assessment at home or, if they would prefer, come to the London Operations Centre to complete the assessment week commencing 8th September. Candidates will be contacted after shortlisting to check their preference.
Stage 3
Interviews for this role is due to take place week commencing Monday 29th September. Please be advised that if you are unable to make the scheduled interview date, we may not be able to make alternative arrangements.
Additional Information
Offers of appointment will be subject to a successful medical, reference and other security checks.
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check. Successful candidates will be required to undergo an enhanced level criminal record check through the Disclosure and Barring Service, including a check against the Adult and Child Barred Lists. This is to ensure suitability for working in a role that may involve sensitive information, safeguarding responsibilities, or contact with vulnerable individuals. Appointment to the role will be conditional on the outcome of these pre-employment checks.
If successful you will undertake an intensive, assessment based training course and will have to achieve competence before joining a watch.
Salary: Starting salary £38,420.66 with annual salary progression increase up to £48,873.90 *exclusive of national pay awards.
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999 Control Officer – London Fire Brigade employer: National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
Contact Detail:
National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 999 Control Officer – London Fire Brigade
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the London Fire Brigade's values: Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Equity, Courage, and Learning. During your interactions, whether in assessments or interviews, make sure to demonstrate how you embody these values in your previous experiences.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills under pressure. Since the role involves handling emergency calls, consider simulating high-stress scenarios with friends or family to improve your ability to remain calm and articulate during intense situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Research common emergency scenarios that the London Fire Brigade deals with. Understanding the types of incidents you might encounter can help you respond more effectively during the Simucall assessment and show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your personal development journey. Reflect on how you've pursued learning opportunities in your past roles, as this will be a key focus during the selection process. Show that you're open to continuous improvement and adapting to new challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace 999 Control Officer – London Fire Brigade
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a 999 Control Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key skills required, such as communication under pressure and teamwork.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the values of the London Fire Brigade. Emphasise any previous roles where you demonstrated service, integrity, teamwork, and learning.
Showcase Your Values: In your application, provide specific examples of how you embody the values of the London Fire Brigade. Use clear, concise language to illustrate your commitment to personal development and your ability to communicate effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a 999 Control Officer. Familiarise yourself with the types of incidents you may encounter and the importance of effective communication under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Core Values
The London Fire Brigade values Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Equity, Courage, and Learning. Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase how you embody these values, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Practice Calm Communication
As a Control Officer, you'll need to communicate clearly and calmly, even in distressing situations. Practise role-playing scenarios where you guide someone through a crisis, focusing on maintaining composure and empathy.
✨Be Ready for Shift Work
This role involves working on a shift pattern, including nights and holidays. Be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to adapt to this schedule during the interview.