Communications Officer

Department: Safety & Security UP Chicago
Salary/Grade: NEX/16

*PLEASE NOTE: The salary for this position is $29.40 per hour.

Job Summary:

Under the daily supervision of the shift supervisor and the general supervision of the Emergency Preparedness Manager, operates the computer-aided dispatch and record management system (CAD-RMS), radio, telephone communications system, LEADS/ NCIC, personal computer, and monitors the computerized alarm system, CCTV as requested. Monitors emergency messages and sends messages via several systems to inform campus community members of threats and dangerous conditions.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Operates a 2-way radio, telephone communications system, and LEADS personal computer, involving entering and receiving various information to and from LEADS, NCIC, and other agencies. Handles all communications requiring full knowledge of the procedures to be used to dispatch proper assistance, apparatus, and/or personnel.
• Monitors the University's Central Alarm System, including fire, intrusion, panic, and hold-up alarms, and dispatches accordingly.
• Through CAD-RMS, it maintains a record of incoming and outgoing calls for service. Monitors the status of calls to ensure calls for service are expediently dispatched and processed within the framework of procedures and policies.
• Receives and dispatches emergency (911) calls.
• Receives radio and telephone reports of criminal and non-criminal activity and assigns officers to respond accordingly.
• Monitors locations and availability of police officers.
• Sorts, compiles, and maintains statistical records, including LEADS records.
• Utilizes and monitors the CCTV system as directed to report to responding
• police personnel.
• Operates a number of other computerized and manual systems for monitoring possible emergency events and to provide warnings to community members of threating incidents or hazardous conditions.
• Assists with Communications Officer training.

Miscellaneous

Performed other duties

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired.
• Minimum 2 years of related work experience.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Ability to read, write, spell, and speak English clearly and correctly.
• Knowledge of proper use and care of radio, telephone, personal computer, CCTV, alert systems, and computerized alarm monitoring systems.
• Ability to handle and prioritize events occurring simultaneously.
• Ability to use personal computers and enter data.
• Pass a typing skills test demonstrating an ability to proficiently type a minimum of 25 words per minute.
• Ability to satisfactorily complete a written pre-employment exam to evaluate the ability to perform successfully in the position.
• Ability to satisfactorily complete a comprehensive pre-employment psychological exam administered by a licensed psychologist, and a financial and criminal background investigation, including criminal history/fingerprint check and driving records check.
• Ability to successfully complete a field training program and a six-month probationary period._
• Ability to successfully complete LEADS certification training and all other training required for the position.
• Ability to maintain communication records.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to complete reports and records containing pertinent facts in an organized manner.
• Mental alertness and the ability to maintain emotional poise under stress.
• Ability to understand computer operations and applications.
• Ability to receive and carry out instructions from emergency responders.
• Ability to control telephone conversations in order to obtain accurate information and provide correct, understandable instructions to emergency responders.
• Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with peers, supervisors, students, faculty, staff, local agencies, and the general public.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• College degree.
• Previous experience as a 911 dispatcher or public safety dispatcher.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Knowledge of police and fire department operations.
• Ability to gather and disseminate information quickly in a precise manner.
• Knowledge of police procedures and operations.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

#LI-IW1