Communications Officer; Dispatcher

Position: Communications Officer (Dispatcher)
Bethune-Cookman University

Job Title:

Communications Officer (Dispatcher)

Sector:
General Services

Department:
Campus Safety

Immediate Supervisor:
Campus Safety Officer - Sergeant

Job Summary:

The Campus Safety Communications Officer operates the Department of Campus Safety Communications Center on the Bethune-Cookman University campus, receiving emergency and non-emergency telephone calls, after-hours maintenance requests, monitoring computerized alarm and access control systems, providing contact to police and EMS services, providing in-person customer service, monitoring a CCTV surveillance system and reporting inappropriate activities to zone officers, and making entries into automated record files.

Some tasks may be life-safety related and thus place a critical emphasis on a successful outcome.

Essential Functions:

* Utilize proper telephone etiquette when answering the telephone.

* Multitasking capability and calm, efficient function under stressful conditions are essential (i.e. dispatch calls to Campus Safety Officers, communicate on the telephone and monitor the video surveillance system).

* Takes emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance, dispatching appropriate unit, and maintaining contact with responding units to gather and supply information.

* Make notification to emergency services when requested (law enforcement, EMS, and fire personnel) and provide exact address location where services are needed.

* Ensure that all communications equipment is working properly and reporting to appropriate person when equipment is not functioning.

* Communications is a 24 hour, seven days a week operation and therefore, this position may require irregular hours. May also be required to work on-call in an emergency.

* Monitor the CCTV video surveillance system and report inappropriate activity to Campus Safety Officers and/or the on-duty supervisor.

* Capable of operating the Computer Aided Dispatch system (Navi Gate) while simultaneously speaking on the telephone, radio or both, ensuring that all activities are logged properly.

* Develop and issue emergency campus wide alerts when required.

* Discretion and the ability to keep all records, communications and other information in absolute confidence.

* Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Education and Experience:

* Associate degree; supplemented with one (1) year of experience in a position requiring the use of interpersonal/communication skills and high interaction with the public. Must be able to type accurately.

* Bachelor's is preferred.

* Other combinations of experience, training and education which provide the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work may be considered.

* Must possess a valid driver license upon the effective starting date and a valid Florida Drivers License no later than 30-days after the effective starting date.

Requirements:

* Ability to use a two-way radio for official communications, communicating in a clear, concise and intelligible manner under all conditions at all times.

* Ability to react promptly and correctly in emergency situations.

* Ability to make independent decisions that are permitted with minimum supervision.

* Ability to work effectively with co-workers, university staff and faculty and members of the public that may visit the university.

* Ability to accurately communicate required information in a timely manner.

* Ability to stay aware and alert to the surrounding conditions and situations.

* Proficient in the use and operation of the Navi Gate C.A.D. system.

* Proficient in the use and operation of the E2 Campus Alert system.

* Basic computer proficiency including keyboarding, data entry, data retrieval, electronic forms completion, and proficiency with Windows 7, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office Suite, program designs and development.

* Ability to follow written and oral instructions.

* Ability to actively listen to requests for service via telephone and radio; clearly articulate questions, instructions, and information; and take appropriate action in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.

* Ability to rapidly assimilate information from a variety of sources to direct appropriate resources where they may be needed.

* Ability to function under pressure or in emergency situations.

* Ability to manage multiple tasks and activities in a fast-paced environment in accordance with established policies, procedures, and training.

* Strong interpersonal skills; excellent verbal and writing skills; aptitude for working collaboratively and independently; capacity to multi-task, organize, and work under limited supervision.

* Must have strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.

* Must have the ability to respond effectively to the needs of a diverse and demanding student and parent population.

The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, retaliation,…