Watch Manager (Control)

Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
Address: Beacon House, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 5PB – Onsite
Salary: Watch Manager (Control) in accordance with NJC Pay Scales (pro rata for part time)
Hours: Bank availability including weekend and bank holidays. Minimum of 2 shifts a month (24 hours – one 10-hour shift per month (08:00-18:00) & one 14-hour shift per month (18:00-08:00) Additional hours may be offered to provide cover for absences or operational needs.
Contract: Permanent

We are looking for experienced fire control room professionals to join Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service as Watch Managers (Control). This opportunity is open to both green and grey book applicants with previous fire control experience.

About the role 

Based in our control room in Ipswich, you will play a vital role at the heart of Suffolk’s emergency response.  Our control room operates 24/7, year-round, acting as a crucial link between the public and our operational firefighters. The role requires a minimum commitment of two shifts per month (a total of 24 hours): one 10-hour day shift (08:00–18:00) and one 14-hour night shift (18:00–08:00). Additional hours may be offered to support absences or operational needs. As a Watch Manager (Control), you will play a critical role in saving lives and protecting communities across Suffolk every day.

What we’re looking for:

• Prior experience in a fire control environment.
• 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.
• The ability to work collaboratively to manage multi-agency relationships.
• Excellent digital competence and confidence using IT systems.

You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (Word). If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this role, even if you don’t meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

For more information 

Please visit our Suffolk Firefighters website. If you have any questions or would like a casual conversation, please reach out to us by emailing SFRS.Recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk