At a Glance
- Tasks: Answer emergency calls and mobilise resources to save lives and protect property.
- Company: Join the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, a vital community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 32 shifts of annual leave, a pension scheme, and access to a gym.
- Other info: Full training provided; work in a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with 5 GCSEs including Maths and English.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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 – 07918887778 | michael.carpenter@hantsfire.gov.uk
Control Room Operator in Eastleigh employer: Networking Women in the Fire Service
Contact Detail:
Networking Women in the Fire Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Control Room Operator in Eastleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role of a Control Room Operator. Understand the key responsibilities and skills required, like handling emergency calls and working under pressure. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be dealing with stressful situations, being able to think and speak clearly is crucial. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former Control Room Operators. They can provide insider tips on what to expect and how to stand out in the application process. Plus, it’s a great way to show your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll have access to all the latest updates and opportunities within the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Control Room Operator in Eastleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Communication Skills: As a Control Room Operator, communication is key! Make sure your application highlights your ability to think and communicate clearly, especially under pressure. Use examples from past experiences to showcase this.
Tailor Your CV: We want to see how you fit into our team! Tailor your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Highlight any relevant control room experience or emergency response roles you've had.
Be Honest About Your Availability: Since this role involves shift work, be upfront about your availability in your application. Let us know if you're comfortable working nights, weekends, and bank holidays – it’ll help us understand your fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t hesitate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Networking Women in the Fire Service
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Control Room Operator. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like answering emergency calls and mobilising resources. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is crucial in this job, practice speaking clearly and confidently. You might want to do mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on how you would handle stressful situations. This will prepare you to think on your feet during the actual interview.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Working as part of a team is essential in a control room environment. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in high-pressure situations. Highlighting your ability to support and listen to teammates will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions About the Service
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, such as their training programmes or team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the service and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.