University Police Dispatcher

Washington, DC
American University

Salary: $23.11/hour.

Position Summary:

The University Police Dispatcher performs responsible telecommunications work under frequent stressful conditions. This position receives emergency and non-emergency calls for service from the public, law enforcement, and fire and rescue communities, as well as maintenance of radio communications with American University Police Officers.  The Dispatcher uses computer-aided dispatching system to manage service calls, two-way radio dispatching, and information collection. This position also monitors university security system including alarms and closed-circuit television cameras throughout campus. The incumbent gathers and analyzes information quickly and exercises judgment in dispatching patrol officers to incidents.  

Essential Functions:

  • Dispatch Services: Receives emergency request for service by radio and telephone, determines appropriate response according to location and nature of problem and procedures of the department; receives non-emergency requests for service and provides appropriate response to callers; enters, records, tracks and updates service calls and police activity in the computer-aided dispatch system.
  • Alarm and Camera System Monitoring: Monitors and operates the university security system, dispatches officers to reset all active alarms.  Monitors and operates fire alarm monitoring system, dispatches officers to reset all active trouble and fire alarms.  Monitors University wide closed circuit television cameras, assesses camera events and relays information to officers.
  • Information Services and Emergency Notification: Provides information to police officers, such as criminal histories, wanted checks, vehicle registration status; conducts emergency notifications upon approval from the Senior Director; provides information to the public and university community as requested.
  • Access Control Services: Maintains and updates access control records, authorization lists, emergency contact numbers, alarm codes.  Tracks restricted keys issued for temporary use.
  • Assists with training programs; other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • At least one year of work experience involving public contact, preferably with an emergency response agency or dispatch center.
  • General knowledge of the methods of operation of telecommunication equipment and systems; proficiency with records management systems, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), e-mail, word processing and data entry;
  • Ability to work well in emergency situations;
  • Ability to work well in a stressful environment, ability to work shift work;
  • Ability to work well with the public, responder agencies and co-workers; general knowledge of the geography, street and road systems and location of landmarks in the District of Columbia;
  • Ability to speak distinctly; courtesy; tact; ability to type 35 wpm;
  • Ability to satisfactorily complete the University Police Dispatcher training program;
  • Ability to obtain and maintain WALES/National Crime Information Center and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)/First Aid Certifications;
  • Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously;
  • Once hired, must be able to pass an initial drug screen and additional random or scheduled drug screens.

Preferred Requirements:

  • Experience operating a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera system; experience operating an alarm monitoring system; knowledge of emergency response protocols.