Communications Officer

University of Mississippi•University, MS

9d•$38,771 - $58,158•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, is a leading public research institution with a strong academic history. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all students, faculty, and staff can reach their full potential. The University Police & Campus Safety department is seeking a Communications Officer to receive and transmit emergency and non-emergency calls, monitor security systems, and coordinate emergency responses. This role is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the campus community.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Valid driver's license
Must be a citizen of the United States (as required by the Mississippi Board of Emergency Telecommunicators Standards and Training - BETST)
Must become state certified within one year of employment (at no cost to the employee)
Must pass an extensive background check, computer-based aptitude assessment, psychological evaluation, and drug screening.
Must speak, read, and understand English fluently.
Intermediate computer skills at minimum.
Relevant experience | 4 Years | Required

Nice To Haves

Technologically Savvy
Reliable
Quick Thinking
Expert Multi-tasker
Calm Under Pressure
Superior Customer Service
Quick, Accurate, and Thorough Documentation
Clear and Concise Communication
Strong ethics
A Desire to Serve the Ole Miss Community
Additional languages

Responsibilities

Receives and transmits emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
Monitors security and emergency systems, including cameras and alarm systems.
Coordinates emergency response and dispatches personnel, including campus security officers, police officers, and emergency responders.
Provides guidance and assistance to callers, offering information on campus policies, procedures, and resources.
Monitors multiple calls and incidents simultaneously, maintaining situational awareness and prioritizing responses.
Provides accurate and timely information to responding personnel.
Maintains accurate records of all calls and incidents.
Operates multi-channel handheld and console radios.
Dispatches University Police Officers to calls for service.
Becomes familiar with department policies and procedures.
Maintains the highest level of personal and professional ethics.
Maintains strict confidentiality.
Follows after-hours notification procedures.
Coordinates multi-agency incident response with Oxford Police, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, Oxford Fire, Baptist EMS, etc.
Completes initial training as well as continuing education.
Acts as an answering point for and delegates tasks to other departments such as Parking and Transportation, Facilities, Housing, Counseling, etc.
Determines appropriate priority and completes multiple tasks simultaneously.
Codes calls and records details appropriately for proper response and reporting purposes.
Utilizes numerous databases.
Operates advanced equipment and conducts minor troubleshooting as needed.
Monitors campus-wide camera systems.
Monitors campus-wide alarm systems.
Facilitates a positive relationship between UPD and the community.
Maintains composure during times of crisis.
Assigns responding units as necessary.
Facilitates emergency translation services.
Monitors weather conditions and relays information for campus safety.
Provides communications for special events such as athletic, Greek, Commencement, entertainment, and protection details.
Assists internal divisions as requested: Patrol, Investigations, Accreditation, Campus Safety, Emergency Management, etc.

Benefits

Starting Pay: $18.64 hourly ($38,771 annually) with no experience plus an additional shift differential for evenings and weekends.
Cost of Living and Merit Raises as Allowed
State Health/Dental/Vision/Prescription Insurance
State Retirement (PERS)
Life Insurance, Long-term Disability, Cancer, and Accidental Death Policies Available
Paid Vacation, Holidays, Sick Time
Free/Discounted Staff/Dependent Tuition
Staff Textbook Scholarship
Discounts on Meals, Golf Course, Recreation Centers, Ford Center, and Athletics Events
Mississippi State Employee Personnel Board Discounts on Restaurants, Retail, Tickets, Travel, etc.