Alarm Dispatcher and Responder- 2nd Shift

Alarm Detection Systems; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

401(k) with Employer Match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

Alarm Detection Systems (ADS) is hiring a Central Station Runner/Operator in Chicago to monitor alarms and coordinate fast responses. You will communicate with customers, keyholders, responders, and internal teams to ensure security and safety during critical events.

Responsibilities include alarm monitoring, dispatching, documentation, and after-hours support. The role requires calm, clear communication and reliable teamwork in a full-time, on-site setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Strong communication and customer service skills required.
• Basic computer proficiency and data-entry skills required.
• Customer service or call center experience preferred.
• Dispatching experience preferred.
• Experience in security, alarm monitoring, public safety, or related fields is a plus.
• Familiarity with alarm systems or security technology is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to meet company requirements.

Responsibilities

• Monitor burglary, fire, panic, medical, and other alarm signals.
• Contact customers, keyholders, and emergency responders as needed.
• Dispatch police, fire departments, and ADS response personnel.
• Document alarm activity and customer communications accurately.
• Coordinate with service technicians and installation teams.
• Maintain customer account information and schedules.
• Provide professional customer support by phone.
• Assist during emergencies and periods of high alarm activity.
• Track and verify systems that are temporarily out of service.
• Support after-hours service dispatching and emergency response coordination.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Clear communication

Customer service focus

Detail-oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

#ADS25

Protect Lives. Respond When It Matters Most.

For nearly 60 years, Alarm Detection Systems, Inc. (ADS) has helped businesses and homeowners protect what matters most through trusted fire alarm, security, video surveillance, and access control solutions.

We’re looking for a Central Station Runner/Operator who can remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and respond confidently when every second counts. This unique position combines alarm monitoring, emergency communications, customer service, and field response.

During your shift, you’ll monitor alarm signals, coordinate with customers and emergency responders, and travel to protected properties when an on-site response is needed. Whether you’re answering an urgent call or helping secure a customer’s property, your work will directly contribute to the safety of the people and communities we serve.

If you’re dependable, attentive, and ready to build a meaningful career in security, public safety, emergency communications, dispatching, or customer service, we’d love to meet you.

Why Join ADS?

At Alarm Detection Systems, our five core values guide how we serve customers, support each other, and make decisions every day.

• Customer First - We put our customers at the center of everything we do and treat every interaction with urgency, professionalism, and care.
• Do What You Say & Do Whatever It Takes - We keep our promises, take ownership, and work together to solve problems the right way.
• Embrace Change & Pursue Growth- We believe learning never stops. We invest in training, encourage new ideas, and support career development.
• Be a Team Player- Success comes from collaboration. We support one another, communicate openly, and celebrate wins together.
• Care About People - We genuinely care about our customers, our teammates, and the communities we serve.

Our Central Station team plays an essential role in protecting lives and property. That’s why we invest in thorough training, professional development, and opportunities for career advancement. You’ll join an experienced, supportive team where your judgment, communication, and commitment to helping others truly matter.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical Insurance with multiple plan options
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability
• Optional Long-Term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401(k) with Employer Match
• Paid Time Off starting at 3 weeks annually
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance Discounts
• Employee, Family & Friends Security System Discounts
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Company-Sponsored Employee Events
• Positive, Team-Oriented Work Environment

How You\'ll Make an Impact

As a Central Station Runner/Operator, you’ll help ensure alarm signals receive a prompt, accurate, and professional response.

Alarm Monitoring and Dispatch

In This Role, You Will

• Monitor burglary, fire, panic, medical, and other alarm signals.
• Contact customers, keyholders, and emergency responders as needed.
• Dispatch police, fire departments, and ADS response personnel.
• Document alarm activity and customer communications accurately.
• Coordinate with service technicians and installation teams.
• Maintain customer account information and schedules.
• Provide professional customer support by phone.
• Assist during emergencies and periods of high alarm activity.
• Track and verify systems that are temporarily out of service.
• Support after-hours service dispatching and emergency response coordination.

Alarm Response Services

You Will Also

• Respond to locations enrolled in the ADS Runner Response Service.
• Conduct exterior property inspections when appropriate.
• Help emergency responders access protected buildings.
• Assist with securing customer locations following alarm events.
• Reset alarm systems when possible or coordinate follow-up service.
• Report system or property concerns and arrange service when needed.
• Maintain the assigned company vehicle, equipment, keys, and response materials.
• Meet with customers to document lockbox locations and update account information.

What Makes You a Great Fit

You’re Someone Who

• Stays calm and makes sound decisions in time-sensitive situations.
• Communicates clearly and professionally with customers, teammates, and emergency responders.
• Takes ownership and follows through on responsibilities.
• Pays close attention to details and maintains accurate records.
• Adapts quickly when priorities or conditions change.
• Handles confidential information with professionalism and integrity.
• Works well independently and as part of a team.
• Is comfortable driving and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Genuinely enjoys helping and supporting others.

Background & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Strong communication and customer service skills required.
• Basic computer proficiency and data-entry skills required.
• Customer service or call center experience preferred.
• Dispatching experience preferred.
• Experience in security, alarm monitoring, public safety, emergency communications, or law enforcement is a plus.
• Familiarity with alarm systems or security technology is a plus.

Licenses, Training & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable and insurable driving record required.
• Ability to meet all company driving and insurance requirements.
• Ability to obtain CSAA Level I certification.
• Ability to complete Advanced Operator training.
• Ability to obtain required state licenses and registrations, where applicable.
• Ability to obtain UL 2050 certification preferred.

ADS provides ongoing training and development to help motivated team members build long-term careers in the life safety and security industry.

Compensation & Schedule

• Starting pay of $20.00–$21.00 per hour
• Additional $1.00/hour shift differential for hours worked between 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• Full-time schedule: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Weekend and holiday availability required

Starting pay is based on experience, education, certifications, and overall qualifications.

What to Expect on the Job

This position combines office-based alarm monitoring with field response responsibilities. Team members should be comfortable with:

• Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods.
• Driving a company vehicle to customer locations.
• Lifting and carrying equipment and response materials.
• Climbing ladders when necessary.
• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Using computers, phones, and monitoring equipment throughout the shift.
• Transitioning between phone-based responsibilities and on-site alarm responses.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re looking for a career where your judgment, communication, and commitment to helping others can have a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and join a team that has been protecting people, property, and communities for nearly 60 years.

Alarm Detection Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.