Alarm Room Operator Job Details

Alarm Room Operator
Posting Id 3230

Department Community Services

Division Fire Services

Section Fire Support Services

Job Grade Fire 055

Rate of Pay $64, $116,995.00 Annual

Job Type Temporary Full Time - Contract

Contract Length/End Date 12 months

Replacement/New Position Replacement for Existing Vacancy

Posting Type Internal and External

Posting Date 01/12/2026

Application Deadline 01/26/2026

*Position Summary*
Reporting to the Communications Officer and indirectly to the Assistant Deputy Chief – Communications, the Alarm Room Operator (ARO) position comprises two job functions: fire department call-taker and dispatcher. The ARO is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for service in a timely and accurate manner. Operating in a high-stress environment, the ARO uses the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, radio, and telecommunications equipment to coordinate the fire department response and support field personnel. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm and focused during critical incidents.

*Key Duties and Responsibilities*

• Receive emergency and administrative calls for service and/or advice, process and record necessary information applicable to the situation
• Dispatch appropriate personnel and apparatus using a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system
• Monitor radio traffic and maintain communications with field personnel to ensure responder safety
• Accurately enter, update, and maintain call information and incident records
• Interpret and relay critical information quickly and clearly to the appropriate agencies
• Operate complex computer and telecommunications equipment
• Track and maintain resource status
• Provide exceptional customer service

*Education and Experience*

• Minimum of Grade 12 diploma or Ontario-approved equivalent
• Successful completion of a recognized Emergency Telecommunication Program, Emergency Computer Aided Dispatch experience, Emergency Dispatch experience or Emergency Responder experience is considered an asset
• Valid and current certification in First Aid and CPR is required

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Be legally entitled to work in Canada
• Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to relay information clearly and accurately in a high-stress environment
• Strong multi-tasking skills
• Ability to interpret maps, addresses and/or geographical information
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a team
• Keyboarding at a minimum of 45 wpm
• Proficient computer skills
• Demonstrates good judgment and makes sound decisions
• Ability to work rotating shifts and in a restrictive environment
• Shows commitment to personal growth, development, and leadership opportunities
• Shares new ideas and challenges the status quo
• Proven written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with honesty, openness, respect, and trust
• Takes initiative to participate in a culture of learning, mentoring, and sharing
• Contributes to building and being a part of a positive culture
• Demonstrate the City's corporate values of care, collaboration, courage and service

*Leadership Competencies*

• Demonstrates personal leadership
• Builds people and culture
• Cultivates open communication
• Shapes the future
• Navigates and leads through complexity and change

Attention Internal Candidates: All current City of Richmond Hill employees are required to apply via the ' View Jobs for Current Employees ' link on the City's Careers Page .
We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

The City of Richmond Hill is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. If contacted to participate in the recruitment and selection process, please advise Human Resources if you require an accommodation.