What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Officer (Dispatcher) position at Bethune-Cookman University?
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 (NaviGate) 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 NaviGate 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, marital status, religion or disability, or any other applicable local, state or federal regulation. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities, equal employment opportunity and Title IX matters should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at 386-481-2049.