Police Communications Operator – Public Safety

Pittsburgh, PA
Duquesne University

Position Summary:

Responsible for communications work relaying information to campus police officers. Work includes receiving calls via telephone and walk-ins, then relaying the information on police radio, and/or to other appropriate personnel. Work is performed under the general supervision of the lead PCO and the Captain/Police Patrol Commander.

The Department of Public Safety exemplifies the Community Oriented Police Model, seeking foremost to prevent crime through a broad spectrum of interactions and programs within our Duquesne University community. Police Communications Operators provide a vital link between the University community, guests/visitor to our campus and the safety personnel deployed to protect them. This position requires outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.

Individual must be available to work eight hour shifts on either night shift, afternoon shift, or daylight shift and be available for recall to duty during emergencies, or as otherwise necessary. Must be accountable, reliable, and consistent in their work attendance.

Essential Functions:

  • Receives, acknowledges, records and reports all incoming radio transmissions and telephone calls and relays information to police officers and to other appropriate personnel or agencies by use of ARMS Computer Aided Dispatch software.
  • Dispatches University Police personnel for emergency responses and for routine details as required and transmits supplemental information on specific incidents or general police information as received.
  • Proficiently operates of all security systems, to include but not limited to, activating the Outside Warning System, DU Emergency Alert and/or emergency lockdown procedures when deemed appropriate.
  • Dispatches Facilities Management personnel for maintenance problems reported to base.
    Monitors city police scanner and alerts police personnel to any activity reported in the area immediately adjacent to campus.
  • Monitors all alarm systems, cameras, card access and remote lock doors. Report safety concerns, security breaches and unusual circumstances immediately to the appropriate supervisor.
  • Calls Index at request of officers for information related to vehicles and arrests.
  • Completes other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • The successful candidate will have earned a high school diploma or equivalent and preferably have some experience in radio dispatch or similar activity.
  • Ability to successfully pass Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) course within first year of employment and maintain the APCO certification and trainings thereafter.
  • Fully embraces training that enhance professional job performance.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, and to secure appropriate information over the telephone and radio in a professional demeanor.
  • Knowledge of how to use a computer and proficient typing skills.
  • Ability to use independent judgment, with a first-rate problem-solving aptitude and the capacity to think independently and evaluate situations while functioning within the rules and policies of the department.
  • Ability to work flexible hours and maintain satisfactory attendance and punctuality standard.
  • Ability to be a self-starter, with a high-quality work ethic.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to focus under high stressed situations.
  • Willingness to join the labor union during the first year of employment (as required by labor contract).
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the University Community.
    This includes maintaining a service orientation approach when carrying out all duties.
  • Commitment to acting legally, morally and ethically at all times.
  • Ability and willingness to maintain a neat and professional appearance.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment with the ability to work independently.
  • Sensitivity to the need of each individual to be treated with dignity and respect as it relates to diversity in general and the Mission of the University specifically.
  • Commitment to the University’s values of diversity, equity and inclusion, and recognition of the importance of treating each individual with dignity and respect consistent with the University’s Mission. Demonstrated experience with, and understanding of, the broad diversity of the University community (students, faculty, staff and others).
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the University Community.
  • Ability and willingness to contribute actively to the mission of the University and to respect the Spiritan Catholic identity of Duquesne University. The mission is implemented through a commitment to academic excellence, a spirit of service, moral and spiritual values, sensitivity to world concerns, and an ecumenical campus community.