Police Dispatcher

Position Summary

The Police Dispatcher is a highly service-oriented member of the University Police Department responsible for maintaining effective and efficient communications among the dispatch center, law enforcement officers, outside emergency response, parking enforcement, transportation services, and the public. The dispatcher records information, operates communications equipment, enters and retrieves data, coordinates emergency responses, and performs basic records maintenance and clerical support.

Under general supervision, the dispatcher will multi-task, including answering and screening emergency and non‑emergency incoming calls; dispatching police or parking officers; entering and retrieving data; coordinating emergency responses; monitoring radio traffic and alarm systems; processing crime reports, citations, and public information; and providing related clerical support. The dispatcher may also train new dispatchers and support other public safety functions.

• Answer incoming telephone calls (including 911), receive initial information, and prioritize dispatch.
• Dispatch police units using the computerized dispatch system.
• Maintain radio contact with all field personnel and record associated information.
• Monitor radio traffic of other agencies and campus departments.
• Assist persons at the public counter with initial reports and general inquiries.
• Provide general information and referrals to the campus.
• Enter a variety of records into the CLETS database, NCIC, and CLEWS systems.
• Interpret database returns for officers in the field.
• Request mutual assistance from public and private agencies.
• Maintain telecommunication briefing books of missing persons, runaways, etc.
• Monitor and process campus fire, panic, intrusion, and environmental alarm systems.
• Maintain the department’s computerized law enforcement records system (RIMS).
• Process all crime reports and citations, including keyboarding, printing, copying, scanning, distribution, and filing.
• Take messages for all personnel.
• Answer multi‑line telephones promptly and forward calls or information.
• Occasionally prepare statistical reports as requested.
• Provide computer entry and documentation of parking citations and permits.
• Update 826‑INFO line in accordance with department directives.
• Takes an active role in archiving reports, records, and logs.

• Inform supervisor of work progress and suggest improvements.
• Assist with campus lost and found processing.
• Maintain various logs through computer‑aided dispatch and Excel.
• Process and maintain RIMS warrant database.
• Issue and maintain records for building pass system.
• Distribute and maintain a log of campus keys.
• Maintain and update dispatch, radio, CLETS, and NCIC manuals.
• Respond to public inquiries with courtesy and accuracy.
• Attend meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Coordinate with appropriate persons to maximize interdepartmental efficiency.
• May train new dispatchers.
• Perform other related duties.
• Informally monitor CCTV.
• Operate campus emergency public address system as needed.

• Perform any other duties consistent with the role and function of the job classification.

• Working knowledge of legal codes, procedures, and dispatching techniques.
• Working knowledge of public safety agencies and communication protocols.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to handle simultaneous events under stress.
• Ability to speak clearly and concisely.
• Ability to hear, record and recall radio transmissions and telephone conversations.
• Ability to sit/stand for extended periods (often 12‑hour shift).
• Ability to remain calm during emergencies and difficult situations.
• Ability to elicit information from upset or irate people calmly.
• Ability to operate telecommunications equipment and computer systems.
• Ability to learn geographic features, streets, and campus buildings.
• Ability to read and interpret manuals and codes.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
• Ability to use logical…