Public Safety Dispatcher

University of Arkansas System • Fort Smith, AR

10d • $33,000 - $36,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Safety Dispatcher provides central dispatch services for the University Police Department (UPD), working under general supervision in a team-oriented setting. The position is governed by law enforcement standards and departmental and institutional policy, and reports to the Chief of Police.

The dispatcher receives emergency and non-emergency calls, assesses their nature and severity, and initiates appropriate responses, including dispatching UPD officers or requesting fire, emergency medical, or other police assistance. The role also uses computers and databases to retrieve law-enforcement information, monitors and records patrol officers’ status, maintains call and response logs, assists with report entry, issues parking permits, and completes administrative tasks.

The job is performed primarily in an office setting. Occasional shift work and schedule flexibility are required; dispatcher shifts commonly run 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., and 12:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m. The position requires frequent interaction with departmental personnel, public safety officials, university employees and students, and local residents. Pre-employment screening may include criminal, financial history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle, and drug checks, as well as physical and psychological examinations.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one year of experience operating public safety or related communication equipment; previous dispatch experience in a non-public-safety field may be considered.
• Stable work history.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Must have or obtain ACIC/NCIC computer training and certification.
• Understanding of communications equipment and usage procedures.
• Understanding of emergency response procedures and ability to remain calm and perform effectively during stressful emergencies.
• Effective interpersonal skills and communication techniques.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Understanding of modern office equipment and procedures.
• Ability to interact positively with diverse populations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality as required by law.

Nice To Haves

• Other job-related education and/or experience may substitute for part of the listed requirements.
• Applicable qualification equivalencies may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Receive emergency and non-emergency calls, determine their nature and severity, and initiate appropriate responses.
• Dispatch UPD officers and request responses from fire departments, emergency medical services, or other agency police personnel as appropriate.
• Use computers and databases to retrieve driver’s license and vehicle information, check for warrants, and access other law-enforcement data.
• Issue parking permits.
• Monitor and record patrol officers’ status and maintain accurate logs of calls for service and response activity.
• Assist officers with report entry.
• Complete administrative tasks and other duties as assigned.
• Promote a positive work atmosphere through teamwork and communication, provide leadership to subordinates, and maintain consistent on-time attendance.

Benefits

• University contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance.
• Tuition waivers for employees and their families.
• 12 official holidays.
• Immediate leave accrual.
• Choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5% to 10% of employee salary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED