Communications Officer

Villanova University; Garrett Hill (PA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Villanova University is seeking a Communications Officer to staff the university's communications center, handling radio and telephone calls and dispatching officers and resources across campus.

The role requires operating CAD records management, access control, CCTV systems, and coordinating with external emergency agencies, while providing timely information to the university community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• APCO certification or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Proficiency in English and operation of computer/telecom equipment.

Responsibilities

• Responds to all incoming radio and telephone calls and dispatches officers and facilities personnel.
• Operates and maintains CAD records management, student records, fire alarm, access control, and CCTV systems.
• Communicates with external emergency agencies and sends emergency messages via NOVA Alert.
• Manages access to keys, radios, vehicles, and assists with dispatching passenger vans after hours.
• Maintains documentation and prepares daily incident summary reports for supervisors.
• Uses telecommunications equipment including phones and two-way radios.

Skills

APCO certification

English proficiency

Computer skills

Telecommunications equipment operation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

APCO certification (or ability to obtain within 12 months)

Job description

Villanova University is hiring a Communications Officer. The role requires staffing the communications center, handling incoming telephone and radio calls, dispatching officers and resources, providing information to the University community, and managing departmental resources such as keys and vehicles using specialized software systems.

Highlights

• Responds to all incoming radio and telephone calls, prioritizes requests, and dispatches officers and facilities personnel.


• Operates and maintains CAD records management, student records, fire alarm, access control, and CCTV systems.


• Communicates with external emergency agencies and sends emergency messages via the NOVA Alert system.


• Manages access to keys, radios, vehicles, and assists with dispatching passenger vans after hours.


• Maintains documentation and prepares daily incident summary reports for supervisors.


• Utilizes telecommunications equipment including phones and two-way radios.


• Required qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, APCO certification or ability to obtain within 12 months, proficiency in English, and computer and telecommunication equipment operation skills.


• Preferred qualifications are knowledge of law enforcement/EMS dispatch codes and at least 2 years of call-taking or dispatch experience in emergency services.


• Compensation is $21.36 per hour, non-exempt, with a full-time 12-month schedule.


• Works within Villanova University's Public Safety Department, supporting university community members during and after business hours.