Communications Officer/Dispatcher

JOB SUMMARY:

The Communications Officer is the first point of contact for all emergency and non-emergency calls to Fort Valley State University and determines the nature of calls and deploys the appropriate personnel and/or equipment. The officer reports to the Communications Supervisor and police chain of command.

MAJOR DUTIES:

• Receives and responds to incoming telephone calls and radio messages.
• Provides direction and guidance to callers.
• Monitors the electronic alarm systems and fire alarm system on continuous basis.
• Operates multi-channel base radio.
• Maintains records on telephone calls, radio messages and alarms.
• Maintains daily log of all activities reported to the Office of Campus Police
• Dispatches Campus Police personnel to handle calls for services.
• Monitors, records, and downloads CCTV video footage on the University's video surveillance system
• Utilizes the University's computer-based access control system to assist officers with opening and securing doors.
• Utilizes the Georgia Crime Information and National Crime Information Center databases to assist police officers in the performance of their official duties.
• Maintains, sorts, and files reports alphabetically, numerically, chronologically and by other predetermined categories; looks up information in files.
• Maintains a clean and efficient office.
• Assists with security details and special events in and around the University.
• Works varying shifts (day and/or night)
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Minimum:

• High School Education or GED
• One to three months related experience and/or training
• Experience using computers (keyboarding, data entry, etc.)
• Keyboard/type 30-40 wpm
• Obtain Peace Officer Standard and Training (POST) certification as a Communications Officer within six (6) months of employment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent decision-making skills and the ability to think and act quickly.

Preferred:

• Associate degree.
• Two years related work experience.
• Law enforcement experience
• Experience working on a college campus.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS:

The Communications Officer/Dispatch works under the supervision of the Communications Supervisor. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures and the nature and propriety of the results.

GUIDELINES:

Guidelines include the FVSU employee handbook. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK:

• Always wear a designated uniform while on duty
• Work is performed primarily indoors, in a temperature-controlled environment.
• Requires weekend, holiday, and day/night shift work.
• Maintain POST certification as a Communications Officer

CONTACTS:

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, other college personnel, faculty, staff, students, law enforcement personnel, emergency service providers, and members of the public.
• Contacts are typically to provide services and to give or exchange information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to sit; talk and listen
• Periodically required to reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to walk; and stoop, kneel, crouch or bend.
• May be required to lifts up to approximately 25 pounds.

Finalist(s) will be required to take a keyboarding/typing proficiency test.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY:

This position is non-supervisory. The position is also required to be available for assigned university events.