911 Public Safety Dispatcher- (HR Title: Communications Officer)

About the Position

The Public Safety Dispatcher/ 911 Operator will have a wide range of responsibilities performed both independently and as part of a team. Primary duties include transmitting and receiving communications through the police radio system and managing a multi-line telephone system. The role also involves monitoring campus-wide fire and intrusion alarms and initiating appropriate response actions. Additional responsibilities include collecting and recording payments for fingerprinting services and bond transactions, addressing complaints and inquiries, and preparing detailed reports.

Essential Functions

• Receives complaints and inquiries from members of the university community by telephone, email, or in person at the service window.
• Afters assessing the information provided, the dispatcher deploys police, fire, or emergency medical services as appropriate using the radio communication system.
• Maintains a computer-based log of all police activities.
• Documents service calls and radio communications from officers in the CAD system and uses the system to determine whether an officer has had prior interactions with a specific individual or vehicle.
• Submits reports and updates reference manual.
• Manages multiple computer systems, including a CCTV network with more than 2,000 cameras, fire and security alarm monitoring systems, 911 services, and a police blotter.
• Collections and records payments for fingerprints, reports, and notary services.
• Oversees and maintains all equipment within the emergency communication center to guarantee reliability and continuity of emergency response operations.
• This includes conducting regular inspections and reporting any malfunctions or technical issues to ensure all systems and devices remain fully operational at all times.
• Must be available to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays, as assigned.

Education and Experience

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• An associate's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of one year of experience in a high-volume customer service environment is required, preferably in a dispatch center and/or security setting.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent verbal communication skills, the ability to speak clearly and interact effectively in all circumstances.
• Sound decision-making capabilities, problem-solving skills, and maintain composure while handling stressful situations.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions.
• Strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
• Active TCOLE Telecommunications Operator License is required.
• Proficiency in utilizing Windows computer operating system and the Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, and Outlook) is required.
• Knowledge of records management systems is preferred.
• Possession of strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Physical: Sit for long periods of time, Bend, Reach above shoulders, Handle objects (dexterity), Carry/lift over 25-50 lbs., Kneel, Stand, Push/Pull
• Environmental: Exposure to excessive noise, Around moving machinery, Exposure to marked changes in temperature/or humidity, Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, radiation, microwave, Drives motorized equipment, Work in confined quarters