Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle 999 emergency calls and support callers during various incidents.
- Company: Join the Thames Valley Fire Control Service, a collaborative and vital team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, onsite gym, health benefits, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in emergencies while developing essential skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, strong communication, and calm under pressure.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with excellent career growth and commitment to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 24800 - 29500 £ per year.
Overview
Location: Reading (Service Headquarters, Calcot, Reading)
Salary: £28,865- £36,937 per annum (once competent)
Rota Pattern: 42-hour week across 4 days, comprising 2-day shifts (09:00 – 18:00) and 2-night shifts (18:00 – 09:00), followed by 4 days off.
Onsite gym, parking facilities, Benenden Health (discretionary private healthcare), My Lifestyle employee discount scheme, Blue Light Card and a Local Government Pension Scheme are available.
Responsibilities
You will be supporting callers with a wide range of incidents as calls to fires are only a small part of our job. As a Fire Control Operator, you will:
- Receive and handle 999 emergency calls
- Gather and process critical information from callers
- Support callers during a wide range of incidents, including fires, road traffic collisions, chemical spills, flooding, and rescues
- Evaluate the situation, decide on the best course of action and mobilise resources in line with the incident using our command-and-control system to communicate to the fire appliances, stations and officers passing on the information gathered from members of the public or other agencies
Qualifications
Essential Requirements Include:
- GCSEs in English and Mathematics (A–C or equivalent)
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Effective and confident written and oral communications
- Able to work calmly under pressure
- Able to prioritise tasks appropriately
- Effective communicator with strong telephone and IT skills
- Flexible attitude and able to work days, nights, weekends and public holidays
About The Role / Application and Selection
The Thames Valley Fire Control Service (TVFCS) is a collaboration between Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, Oxfordshire County Council and Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority. We are inviting applicants for the role of a Fire Control Operator to join the team. This is a vital position within TVFCS. The Behavioural Competency Framework allows us to easily identify the behaviours that drive successful performance and enables us to deliver an effective service. The behaviours detailed within the job profile will be assessed throughout the selection process. We are recruiting for fixed-term contracts and creating a pool of candidates for future vacancies.
If you are interested in applying for this position, click Apply Now. Applicants will be expected to detail their personal skills, qualities and attributes against the Job Profile/Person Specification.
Appointment is conditional upon undertaking a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Rechecks will be required in line with the DBS and Recruitment of Ex-Offenders Policy.
For further details about the role please contact Julie Summers, Station Manager Control at summersj@tvfcs.org.uk to arrange an informal discussion. Please note we do not accept applications via Agencies or CVs without an accompanying application form.
Closing & Assessments
Closing date for applications is 17 February 2026 at 17:00 hours. Initial selection assessments for accuracy and speed in typing will be online during the week commencing 23 February 2026. Successful candidates will then be invited to complete further typing tests / teamwork assessment on-site and to visit the Control room at 09:30hrs on 2 March 2026. If successful after full completion of all the above, interviews will take place between 13 to 20 March 2026. Medicals will be carried out after successful interview – dates TBC. Anticipated first start date: End of April 2026 (dates to be confirmed).
Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service values your individuality, your diversity and your dignity. All are welcome here. Inclusion, diversity and equality are principles which guide our decisions and will be visible throughout the Service, and we will continually work to improve in these areas. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture of dignity and trust where everyone feels safe and comfortable to bring their whole self to work. All applications are considered on merit alone. We are a Disability Confident Leader – if you meet the essential criteria of the role, you will be guaranteed an interview if you choose to opt into the Offer of an Interview Scheme.
To find out more: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment. Please view our Safer Recruitment Statement on application.
Privacy & How to Apply
To apply for this job please visit webrecru.it.
FIRE CONTROL OPERATOR in Reading employer: South East Employers
Contact Detail:
South East Employers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land FIRE CONTROL OPERATOR in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Fire Control Operator. This way, when you get that interview, you can show off your knowledge and passion for the job.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be handling emergency calls, being calm and clear is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Fire Control Operators on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at Thames Valley Fire Control Service.
We think you need these skills to ace FIRE CONTROL OPERATOR in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the Job Profile and Person Specification. This will help you understand what we're looking for and how to tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As a Fire Control Operator, effective communication is key. Make sure your written application reflects your ability to communicate clearly and confidently. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate this skill.
Be Specific About Your Skills: When detailing your personal skills and attributes, be specific! Instead of saying you're 'good under pressure', share a brief story about a time you successfully managed a stressful situation. This gives us a clearer picture of how you handle challenges.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for both you and us.
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Employers
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Fire Control Operator. Familiarise yourself with handling emergency calls and the types of incidents you might encounter. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Fire Control Operator, effective communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated in high-pressure situations. Practising clear and concise responses can also help you shine during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Calmness Under Pressure
Expect questions that assess your ability to stay calm in stressful situations. Think of scenarios where you had to prioritise tasks or make quick decisions. Sharing these experiences will show that you can handle the demands of the job.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork Questions
Since you'll be part of a collaborative team, be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Reflect on past experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially in emergency or challenging situations. This will highlight your ability to contribute positively to the Fire Control team.
