Public Safety Officer/Dispatcher

St. John’s University, established in 1870, has two New York City campuses; international locations in Rome, Italy; Limerick, Ireland; and Paris, France; and study abroad locations around the world. The University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in its six colleges and schools, with a growing number of programs offered online. A dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion is at the heart of our mission as a Catholic and Vincentian university.

About the role

The Public Safety Officer/Dispatcher is assigned to the Public Safety Command Center and serves as the first point of contact for all emergency and non-emergency calls across the St. John’s University global enterprise. This role operates and monitors multi-channel radio, security, CCTV, and warning systems for timely detection and response to local and global events and incidents. The position reports directly to Public Safety Supervisors and plays a critical role in ensuring prompt, professional response to incidents.

Responsibilities

• Receive, prioritize, and document emergency and non-emergency calls from the St. John’s campus community.
• Dispatch public safety officers and appropriate first responders using a two-way radio system and computer-aided dispatch software.
• Monitor and respond to campus fire alarms, intrusion alarms, and access control alerts.
• Provide exceptional customer service, information, support, and assistance to all University community members including students, staff, faculty, and guests.
• Initiate mass notifications through the emergency notification system during certain incidents.
• Continuously monitor campus CCTV systems, access control, and emergency notification systems.
• Report suspicious activity or safety hazards to appropriate personnel for immediate response.
• Assist in activating emergency response protocols and campus alerts as needed.
• Maintain continuous awareness of Department of Public Safety personnel in the field or on special assignments.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of calls, officer activity, incidents, and responses.
• Assist with the preparation of incident summaries and reports for St. John’s University officials and law enforcement.
• Perform data entry into public safety records management systems.
• Provide information and support to students, faculty, staff, and visitors regarding public safety policies, resources, and procedures.
• Answer questions and route calls to appropriate university departments.
• Test and report equipment malfunctions (radios, alarm systems, surveillance monitors).
• Assist in training new dispatchers and student employees as assigned.
• Stay updated on university safety protocols and participate in emergency drills and exercises.
• Stay updated on the latest emergency response protocols, security procedures, technology, University, and Public Safety policies and procedures.
• Participate in ongoing training sessions to enhance skills related to Public Safety Dispatcher duties.
• On occasion, work operational and special event overtime assignments.
• Shift hours for a period of time to meet the minimum requirements for the department.
• During emergency situations, such as snow storms, stay past assigned tour/hours.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required (GED).
• Minimum of 5 years’ security or dispatcher experience preferred.
• Must obtain New York City Fire Department Certificate of Fitness (F-01) Fire Guard Impairment within six (6) months of employment; the certificate must be renewed every two years.
• Must obtain American Heart Association First Aid certification within ninety (90) days of employment and maintain certification while employed by St. John’s University.
• Must possess and maintain a current New York State Security Guard License.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver License from their state of residence.
• Must be able to perform responsibilities while wearing an N-95 respirator mask as mandated by OSHA regulations.
• Must be able to work on all shifts, during various hours, including weekends and holidays.

Qualifications

• Clear, professional verbal and written communication.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask under pressure.
• Ability to maintain composure and critical thinking in high-stress situations.
• Discretion and adherence to confidentiality and data privacy standards.
• Familiarity with public safety technologies (CAD, CCTV, radio systems).
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in the use of emergency communications systems, including computer-aided dispatch systems, multiple two-way radio systems, alarm receivers, video monitoring systems, access control systems, emergency mass notification systems, and telecommunications systems.
• Ability to remain on duty until relief is available.
• Customer service oriented and provide excellent customer service in all interactions.
• Associates or Bachelors degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Bilingual skills are desirable.

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Command Center Dispatchers may be assigned different shifts 24/7, including holidays and weekends. Typical hours range from:

• Day Shift: 7:00am-3:00pm
• Night Shift: 3:00pm-11:00pm
• Overnight Shift: 11:00pm-7:00am

Pay

The hourly rate for this position is $25.00.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and life insurance.
• Long term disability insurance.
• Tuition remission.
• Generous 403(b) employer contribution.
• Employee assistance program.
• Liberal paid time off policies.
• Access to St. John’s performing arts, libraries, bookstores, dining facilities, campus recreation, and sporting events.