Police Communications Operator - Public Safety

Police Communications Operator - Public Safety

Salary: $21.32/hour with a 5% shift differential for afternoon and overnight shifts based on 40 hours per week.

Benefits:
The University offers generous benefits including paid time off (holidays, holy days and vacation), employer matching contributions to the retirement plan, and tuition benefits for employees and their eligible dependents. Learn more and explore benefits .edu/benefits

Location:

Public Safety

Position Status:
Full-time (40 hours per week)

Hours:

Varied

Position Number: 670109/43-017

FLSA Status:
Non-exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Police Communications Operator (PCO) serves as the vital link between the University community and the Public Safety personnel dedicated to their protection. Stationed within the Public Safety Communications Center, this role requires a professional demeanor, exceptional interpersonal skills, and the ability to maintain peak effectiveness in a high-pressure, 24/7 environment. PCOs are responsible for managing multi-channel communications, including telephone inquiries, radio transmissions, walk-in requests, and automated computer alerting systems.

Success in this role depends on the ability to accurately synthesize and relay critical information to Public Safety officers and emergency responders with speed and precision.

Operating under a Community-Oriented Policing Model, the Department of Public Safety prioritizes safety and crime prevention through proactive engagement and diverse programming. As a central figure in this mission, the PCO must utilize superior communication skills to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive campus environment. Administrative oversight for this position is provided by the Lead Police Communications Operator, with strategic direction from the Director of Emergency Management and Threat Assessment.

Given the 24/7 nature of operations, candidates must demonstrate complete scheduling flexibility, including the availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Beyond standard shifts, the PCO must remain ready for duty recall as operational needs or emergencies dictate. The physical and mental demands of the position include maintaining sharp focus during high-pressure situations and during prolonged periods of sitting and intensive screen monitoring.

Accountability, reliability, and consistent attendance are mandatory professional requirements for this position.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

This list is neither absolute nor restrictive, but indicates approximate duties and responsibilities which may be redefined pursuant to operational needs

Emergency Communications:
Receives and records all incoming radio and telephone transmissions; dispatches University Public Safety or Facilities personnel for emergency and routine responses using ARMS Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software.

Systems Monitoring:
Proficiently operates security and life-safety systems, including C-CURE Access Control, CCTV cameras, and alarm systems.

Emergency Notification:
Activates the Outside Warning System, DU Emergency Alert, and emergency lockdown procedures when appropriate.

External Monitoring and Liaison:
Monitors City of Pittsburgh Police channels for nearby activity and coordinates with the City Index Desk for vehicle and arrest information.

Incident Reporting:
Immediately reports security breaches, safety concerns, or unusual circumstances to the appropriate supervisor or administrator.

Additional Duties:
Performs related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum qualifications:

High School diploma, or GED.

A minimum of one (1) year of public safety experience utilizing emergency communication technologies (radio, computer, CAD, etc.).

Certification:
Must successfully pass and maintain the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) course and certification within the first year of employment. Fully embraces training that enhance professional job performance.

Communication:
Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally, both orally and in writing.

Technical Communication:
Capable of accurately receiving critical information via telephone or radio and disseminating it through appropriate channels while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.

Technical Proficiency:
Strong computer skills with proficient typing abilities.

Critical Thinking:
Ability to evaluate complex situations independently while adhering to departmental rules and policies.

Reliability and Flexibility:
Ability to work flexible hours and adhere to strict attendance and punctuality standards to ensure 24/7 operational coverage.

Work Initiative:
Functions as a self-starter with a high-quality work ethic and the ability to work both independently and within a team-oriented environment.

Adaptive Performance:
Demonstrates the ability to multi-task effectively and remain focused during high-stress situations.

Stress Management:
Ability to multi-task and maintain focus during high-stress situations while sitting for prolonged periods.

Labor…