Communications Officer I - Campus

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is seeking a Communications Officer I to join their team. This role operates within a 24-hour facility, handling a full range of radio, telephone, and data entry duties. The Communications Officer is responsible for receiving and recording calls, dispatching personnel and equipment, monitoring officer activities, and supporting various communication systems. This position requires the ability to multitask in a stressful, isolated environment and work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED is required.
Possession of a valid driver’s license in the State of Tennessee is required.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of modern police administration and police methods is necessary.
Strong organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, communication, and presentation skills is necessary.
Must be able to handle moderate physical effort in a sitting position for long periods of time.
Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming.
Pass a thorough background investigation.
Pass a drug test; medical examination; vision and hearing test.
Must obtain immunizations and medical tests as required by departmental standards.
Pass a Psychological Evaluation.

Responsibilities

Perform a full range of radio, telephone, and data entry operational duties in a 24-hour facility.
Receive and record incoming radio and telephone calls for assistance or general information.
Obtain information from callers and officers regarding the nature of the call, location, and extent of the emergency.
Dispatch necessary personnel and equipment to the scene and make appropriate notifications.
Monitor officers' activities and determine their availability for assignments; distribute assignments according to established procedure.
Monitor and relay information on Vanderbilt Police radio system, mutual aid talk-group, Metropolitan Nashville Police radio system and Metro Fire/Ambulance radio system.
Process and prioritize incoming calls for police, fire, and EMS assistance.
Prepare and maintain accurate records and logs of all radio transmissions, telephone calls, and other records using a computer-aided dispatch software system.
Operate a variety of advanced communications equipment including radio consoles, multi-line telephone system, fax/printers and specialized computer systems.
Operate computer inquiry terminal to obtain information on persons, vehicle registrations, driving records, and warrants through related databases.
Maintain a current, accurate file of protective orders, criminal history inquiry log, field interview reports, long-distance phone log, and campus events information.
Ensure all communication equipment is functioning properly and communicate problems to the appropriate authority.
Generate and distribute automated reports.
Monitor fire and security alarm systems, and coordinate and direct appropriate response.
Make emergency notifications of departmental and campus administration per departmental policy or as directed.
Monitor and activate the severe weather warning system and campus-wide siren warning system.
Perform clerical functions as needed.