DPS Public Safety Dispatcher/Security Officer

Samford University•Main Campus - Homewood, AL

About The Position

A Department of Public Safety (DPS) Dispatcher/Security Officer is a non-sworn position that supports routine and emergency requests for service, assistance, and guidance. The role handles police communications, answers emergency and non-emergency calls by telephone and two-way radio, summons fire, paramedic, and other law enforcement assistance, monitors dispatch-center traffic, and contacts campus departments about matters related to their areas. Security responsibilities may include locking and unlocking campus facilities, parking and traffic duties, and staffing events and details. The position also assists with front-desk service, fire-alarm and weather monitoring, campus emergency notifications, and communication with University officials and community emergency services. The role requires confidentiality, shift work, and attendance at required training.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Current, valid Alabama driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
Proficient oral and written communication skills.
Ability to speak articulately and read and comprehend correspondence, manuals, journals, letters, memoranda, policies, directives, and signs.
Ability to hear verbal communications and radio, electronic, and telephone messages or signals.
No felony convictions or convictions for crimes of moral turpitude.
Ability to learn radio codes and terminology and communicate clearly.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality where appropriate.
Must obtain NCIC certification within six months of employment and maintain it throughout employment.
Must be willing to learn law-enforcement-related data systems.
Must be able to receive and understand supervisors' instructions or orders.
Position involves extensive sitting and stooping, and prolonged standing and walking for up to eight hours or more each day or assigned shift.
Must work various shifts and holidays as assigned; the position involves considerable overtime and shift work.

Nice To Haves

Prior law enforcement dispatch or security experience.
Prior NCIC certification.
Experience with RMS, LETS, and ALACOP is preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage routine and emergency calls by telephone and two-way radio, including simultaneous calls.
Communicate effectively with the public during routine and difficult situations.
Alert officers and shift supervisors to unusual or other situations as required.
Use the phonetic alphabet, ten-series codes, and other radio codes to communicate with field officers.
Complete the daily dispatcher log and dispatch appropriate personnel through RMS software.
Professionally assist the public at the dispatch-center front desk or west gate.
Monitor the University fire alarm system.
Manage email communications, the primary form of campus communication.
Maintain confidentiality of police matters.
Assist the shift supervisor as needed.
Liaise with University officials, community police, and fire departments to promote University safety and security.
Provide directions to citizens and information about persons, vehicles, and property to patrol units.
Monitor National Weather Service radio broadcasts, report threatening weather, and assist with emergency notifications as needed.
Review scheduled campus activities and follow supervisor instructions to carry out daily shift requirements.
Attend training and maintain continuing education credits as required.
Assist with traffic direction, vehicle jumping, and parking-lot assignments.
Assist with locking and unlocking campus doors and facilities.
Assist Public Safety staff with clerical duties as needed.
Perform other duties assigned by the supervisor or Chief.