Dispatch Specialist

About the role

Coordinate the Public Safety Department communication system and perform a variety of police records support functions, some of which require special certification. This position will be expected to work different/longer hours during times of emergency.

Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls and direct communications to the proper destination and/or assign the appropriate response service such as dispatching police officers to non-emergency complaints, referral of emergency police, fire, and EMS requests to Central Dispatch.
• Coordinate police response and services to University students, faculty, and staff as needed.
• Monitor and coordinate response to intrusion, hold-up, and fire alarm systems.
• Type, keyboard, input, record and file records according to established procedures.
• Responsible for the selection, training, scheduling, and supervision of all student dispatchers.
• Process payroll for all DPS student employees.
• Upon authorization to do so, will initiate and notify constituents via emergency mass communication system in various emergencies.
• Serve as active member of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and assume responsibilities as outlined in the Emergency Response Plan and Procedures.
• Review forms and other documents to assure proper completion.
• Retrieve and input data utilizing a computer and printer.
• Collect fines and fees and issue receipts; issue guest parking permits, and assist in the administration of the parking program as directed.
• Validate and edit police reports.
• Disseminate police reports/warrant requests.
• Maintain supplemental reports.
• Certified LEIN operator.
• Process abandoned vehicle reports.
• Process traffic citations.
• Process property dispositions.
• Assist General Counsel with FOIA requests.
• Conduct background checks for other agencies.
• Process requests for police reports.
• Conduct driving records checks for Motor Pool and other University departments on an as needed basis.
• Maintain confidentiality as required by law and department procedures.
• Prepare/coordinate department/University mail/document deliveries.
• Responsible for tracking, and appropriately dispatching the Public Safety Officers.
• Selection, training and supervising student dispatchers and part-time personnel in dispatch, in accordance with University policies and applicable laws.
• Response/coordination of DPS communication in emergencies/mass casualties/disasters.
• Serve as the Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC) as required by the Michigan State Police and FBI CJIC.
• Serve as the Local Area Security Officer (LASO) as required by the Michigan State Police and FBI CJIC.
• Maintains the department’s records system, as directed.
• Report directly to the Director of Public Safety.
• Carries out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
• Cultivates an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
• Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
• Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree
• Six months work experience in dispatching, law enforcement, or as an equivalent emergency communication professional.
• LEIN certified or achieve such certification within 60 days of hire.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree
• One year of police dispatcher experience.
• Formal training in law enforcement and/or dispatching-related discipline.

Skills

• Maintain composure in crisis situations and be able to work under the pressure of an emergency situation.
• Communicate effectively and be able to successfully interact in unusual situations and with difficult customers.
• Use computer software such as word-processing, spreadsheets, database, and other management software.
• Successfully interact with visitors, staff, faculty, and students.
• Able to share sensitive information on a need-to-know basis only.
• Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefit package (health care, vacation, etc.).