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- Tasks: Lead a team in a state-of-the-art control room, managing emergency responses.
- Company: Join Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy a rewarding career with travel, health perks, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping the future of fire control.
- Qualifications: Experience in emergency control management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Ongoing training and development opportunities in an inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Watch Manager (Control)
Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
Location: Beacon House, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5PB
Salary: Watch Manager (Control) in accordance with NJC pay scales
Hours: Full Time, 42 hours per week (including nights, weekends and bank holidays in a shift pattern of 2 days, 2 nights, 4 off)
Contract: Permanent
Number of positions: 1, Full Time – Watch Manager (Control). Successful applicants may be placed in a 12‑month appointability pool for future vacancies.
About The Role
Based in our new, state‑of‑the‑art control room in Ipswich, you will play a vital role at the heart of Suffolk’s emergency response. Our Fire Control operates 24/7, 365 days a year. As a Watch Manager (Control) you will manage a Control Duty system of 2 days (8am – 6pm), 2 nights (6pm – 8am) with 4 rest days, averaging 42 hours per week.
You will play a critical role in saving lives and protecting communities across Suffolk every day.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the performance of all watch personnel through guidance, mentoring, progress evaluation and development support.
- Ensure adherence to established policies, procedures, and service standards.
- Promote and maintain a safe, healthy, and supportive working environment for self and others.
- Provide statistical analysis and reporting in line with established standards.
- Maintain staffing levels for all watches.
- Oversee equipment testing and record for operational readiness.
- Audit and evaluate watch and control functions to ensure consistent adherence to standards.
- Contribute to the management of Fire Control in the absence of the Station Manager.
What We’re Looking For
- Management or supervisory experience in a blue-light emergency control room within the past 3–5 years.
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
- Proven ability to lead and motivate others.
- Confidence, resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Strong decision‑making skills in challenging situations.
- Ability to work collaboratively to manage multi‑agency relationships.
- Excellent digital competence and confidence using IT systems.
What We Offer
- The chance to help shape the future of our new Fire Control Centre.
- Full specific fire‑training.
- A fantastic working environment and the opportunity to make a difference to the lives of Suffolk residents.
- A rewarding career in a vital public service.
- Travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits.
- Membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Inclusive and active staff networks.
How To Apply
Step 1: Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2: Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3: Upload a CV (without name and personal details). If you require reasonable adjustments during the application process, contact our Recruitment Team at recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or call 03456 014412.
Closing date: 11:30pm, 12 October 2025.
Email: SFRS.Recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk
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Watch Manager (Control) employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct Careers
Contact Detail:
Suffolk Jobs Direct Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Watch Manager (Control)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to emergency management and leadership. We should also think of examples from our past experiences that showcase our skills in high-pressure situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our digital skills! Since the role requires excellent IT competence, we should be ready to discuss our experience with relevant systems and how we've used technology to improve operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep an eye on any updates or new opportunities that pop up.
We think you need these skills to ace Watch Manager (Control)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description carefully. It’s important to understand what we’re looking for in a Watch Manager (Control) so you can tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Craft a Strong CV: When uploading your CV, remember to keep it clear and concise. Focus on your management or supervisory experience in emergency control rooms, and don’t forget to showcase your excellent communication skills and ability to lead under pressure!
Be Yourself in Your Application: We want to get to know the real you! Use your application to express your personality and passion for the role. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous positions, especially in high-pressure situations.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website by clicking ‘Apply Now’. This ensures your application goes directly to us, and we can review it promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our team at Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct Careers
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Watch Manager (Control). Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like managing personnel, ensuring operational readiness, and maintaining safety standards. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a challenging situation. Highlight your ability to motivate others and make decisions under pressure, as these are crucial for the role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Brush Up on Communication Techniques
Since excellent communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked about how you would handle multi-agency relationships, so think about how you can demonstrate your collaborative skills and ability to convey information effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in high-pressure situations. Think of potential emergencies you might encounter in a control room and how you would respond. This will not only prepare you for the interview but also give you insight into the day-to-day challenges of the job.