Emergency Communications Officer

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Position Overview

• The University of Kansas is seeking a full‑time Emergency Communications Officer who will work with police and emergency personnel in protecting life, health, safety and campus property by expeditiously receiving, analyzing, evaluating and prioritizing emergent and non‑emergent information via telephone, radio, computer, alarms, printers and in‑person contacts.
• The KU Emergency Communications Center operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including holidays. Communications personnel work four‑day work weeks for three different shifts: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., 2 p.m.–12 a.m. and 10 p.m.–8 a.m., Sunday through Saturday. Shifts are assigned with rotating days off. Overtime is available and/or required for special events, major incidents and shift coverage.
• KU offers comprehensive benefits: up to 176 hours of paid vacation per year, 96 hours of sick leave earned per year, nine paid holidays plus a discretionary day, a retirement program, medical & dental insurance, life and disability insurance, additional benefit plans, state‑wide discounts, tuition assistance (up to 12 credit hours per year) and professional development opportunities.
• KU values diversity, inclusion and belonging, fostering a climate of respectful dialogue and mutual success.

• 25% – Utilize multiple computer systems (CAD, telephones, alarms, emergency notification systems). Make rapid, accurate data entries, follow established policies, report software/hardware problems, and monitor alarm systems (intrusion, fire, armed robbery, etc.). Route emergency information to appropriate personnel.
• 20% – Operate a radio base station, sending and receiving messages under FCC regulations. Monitor frequencies for KU Police, Lawrence Police, Douglas County Fire/Medical, Douglas County Sheriff, Kansas Highway Patrol and other departments. Identify frequencies, relay information, and log pertinent data.
• 20% – Answer police department telephone lines (business, administrative, 911). Use proper communication techniques to calm callers, prioritize by importance, dispatch emergency services, make notifications, log calls, and manage text telephone for TTY/hearing impaired.
• 15% – Operate a highly technical data transmission and retrieval computer, using proper codes to send, relay and receive information from criminal justice agencies. Provide general information as requested.
• 10% – Coordinate communications in routine and emergency situations, managing total operation, ensuring deadlines are met, and maintaining logs, records, and reports.
• 5% – Participate in training as directed, assist in special/emergency assignments, and provide public information about the University and related policies.
• 5% – Perform other duties as assigned.

• U.S. citizen or non‑U.S. citizen legally allowed to work in the United States. (Required documentation for proof of citizenship or eligibility.)
• Valid form of identification for background check (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate).
• At least 18 years of age.
• Pass a thorough background check.
• No diversions for felonies or equivalent, or for misdemeanor domestic violence or equivalent.
• NCIC certified prior to the end of the initial six‑month probationary period.
• Able to work assigned 10‑hour shifts with rotating days off.
• Hearing correctable to a range allowing normal radio and telephone conversation; must submit to a hearing examination.
• Vision correctable to a range allowing quick and accurate reading of computer displays, maps, and printouts.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions and not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of self or others.
• Occasionally available to be called in or held past normal shift with little or no advance notice.

• High school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
• No prior experience required; new employees receive a minimum of 12 weeks in‑house training before independent work.

• Experience in an emergency/non‑emergency communications network operation.
• Experience using multiple phone systems.

• Cover letter addressing how required and preferred qualifications are met.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• Name and contact information for three professional references.

Application review begins Monday, January 5th 2026 and will continue until all positions have been filled. Contact Sandy Patchen (spatchen). Advertised Salary Range: $41,912.00. Anticipated

Start Date:

Monday, February 9, 2026.