Title: Police Dispatcher

Institution: Volunteer State Community College

Job Summary:

Responsible for the operations of the Campus Police Department Communications Center. Coordinates telecommunications and radio dispatching of resources/services during non-emergency and emergency situations. Work is performed under general supervision. Must have the ability and willingness to work any shift assigned.

Job Duties:

Must screen all telephone calls and radio traffic to determine the appropriate level of service needed in emergency and non-emergency situations and allocate appropriate personnel and resources to incidents. Must enter calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch computer system, access campus information, and query local, state and national law enforcement databases. Must monitor alarm systems, contact appropriate parties, initiate police, EMS and/or fire response. Must initiate the evacuation of a building or the entire campus through campus paging system and text message alert system. Monitor alarm and video security systems. Maintain computerized records of citations issued. Monitors weather information for emergency conditions. Controls access to Police Department secured areas through access control system, as well as other bldgs./doors on all campus sites. Performs receptionist duties. Responds to questions from walk-in and telephone traffic, provides general information, and gives directions. May perform other clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, faxing, etc. Operate a variety of advanced communications equipment, a multi-line telephone system, and specialized computer systems, monitor fire, gas and security alarm systems, coordinate and direct the appropriate responses. Ensure the security and confidentiality of restricted information. Operate computer inquiry terminal to obtain information on persons, vehicle registrations, driving records and warrants through related databases to provide pertinent data. Provide routine assistance to visitors, faculty, staff, students and community patrons by providing information, directions, and services. Other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Pass a thorough background investigation.
Pass a drug test.
Must successfully complete the departmental communications training program within designated time frame.
Must have not been convicted of or pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to any felony charge or to any violation of any federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling, liquor or controlled substances.
Possess a valid Tennessee driver’s license. Out of state applicants must obtain a Tennessee driver’s license within thirty (30) days of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

Two years emergency dispatch experience.
Completion of the following courses:
• Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD).
• A basic telecommunicator’s course.
• NIMS Incident Command course(s) – IS-700a National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction, IS-100HE Introduction to Incident Command System for Higher Education, IS-100LEb Introduction to incident Command System for Law Enforcement.
Working knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations including FERPA, Title IX, VAWA and the Clery Act.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to handle multiple, simultaneous responsibilities in oftentimes stressful situations.
Required to work independently, react quickly, and demonstrate good judgment and discretion in stressful situations.
Ability to type accurately at a working rate of speed.
Ability to practice effective communication techniques both orally and in writing including ability to coordinate a variety of resources in gathering information and independently answering inquiries.
Ability to listen effectively and obtain accurate and detailed information.
Ability to speak with a clear, well-modulated voice by phone and radio dispatching equipment while tactfully communicating with highly emotional callers.
Demonstrate self-restraint in challenging and/or difficult situations.
Possess the ability to work in a multi-cultural setting.
Demonstrate problem solving skills.
Ability to view multiple video monitors simultaneously.
Ability to operate communications equipment (multi-line telephones, base radio, and computer terminals) quickly and accurately.
Ability to remain calm and exercise judgment in making decisions in emergency situations under heavy workloads.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality in working with sensitive information.
Ability to operate modern office equipment including computer equipment.
Ability to meet written department directives.

Pay Rate: $33,593 - $40,312 annual salary depending on experience

Volunteer State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:

• Insurance:  Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability (long and short term), FSA/HSA
• Wellness Incentive Program (if enrolled in Health)
• Educational Assistance:  Fee Waiver, Spouse/Dependent Discounts, Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Longevity Pay
• Retirement Options:  State of TN Pension (TCRS), 401a, 401K with up to $50/month match, 403b, and 457
• 14 Paid Holidays/Year
• Annual Leave (if applicable)
• Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank
• State Employee Discount Program with over 900 merchants

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.

Applicants may be subject to a background check.