Communications Officer

Hanover, New Hampshire; Hanover, Northern (NH, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental insurance

New Hampshire Retirement System

Paid holidays and vacation

Sick leave

Job summary

The Town of Hanover is seeking a Communications Officer (Dispatch) to serve as the calm, capable voice coordinating police, fire, and EMS across Upper Valley communities. You will handle emergency and non-emergency calls, dispatch responders, and maintain detailed incident records.

This full-time position requires specialized dispatch training, by- the-book accuracy, and the ability to remain composure under pressure in a fast-paced public safety environment.

Qualifications

• Requires specialized training related to communications, dispatch, or public safety in addition to a high school education.
• One to two years of relevant experience or equivalent apprenticeship or internship experience.
• Possession of or ability to obtain SPOTS and NCIC certification.

Responsibilities

• Receive, screen, and prioritize incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and other public safety agencies.
• Determine appropriate dispatch response and coordinate with police, fire, and EMS personnel.
• Dispatch emergency personnel and monitor their status during incidents.
• Provide pre-arrival instructions to callers when appropriate.
• Maintain detailed logs of telephone and radio calls for all participating agencies and prepare monthly activity reports.
• Enter, validate, and remove information in SPOT and NCIC systems, including missing persons and stolen property.
• Monitor motor vehicle stops and perform driver background checks.
• Process NICS checks for agencies issuing pistol permits.
• Monitor and maintain alarm systems for businesses and residences and assist with resolving alarm issues.
• Assist officers with information for incident, accident, arrest, and booking reports.
• Use multiple computer systems and communication tools to support emergency response.

Skills

Public safety dispatch

Calm under pressure

Communication skills

Radio operation

Education

High school diploma

Dispatch training

Tools

SPOTS

NCIC

Dispatch software

Radios

Job description

Communications Officer (Dispatch)

Department: Police – Dispatch Division
Job Code: DD/2
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Communication Services

Be the calm voice when it matters most.
The Town of Hanover is seeking dedicated, detail-oriented professionals to join the Dispatch Division as Communications Officers. This role is critical to public safety—serving as the first point of contact for emergency and non-emergency calls and coordinating police, fire, and emergency medical services across multiple Upper Valley communities.

Why Join Us & Benefits – Town of Hanover, NH

• Play a vital role in protecting life and property across multiple communities
• Work in a fast-paced, mission-driven public safety environment
• Join a professional, supportive dispatch team
• Serve a town that values safety, preparedness, and community service
• Enjoy competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
• Health and dental insurance
• Participation in the New Hampshire Retirement System
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• Town-paid disability and life insurance
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Benefit from the stability and career opportunities of municipal employment

The Communications Officer is responsible for receiving calls for assistance from the public and dispatching appropriate public safety personnel for multiple communities in the Upper Valley. The position also maintains a variety of records for participating police, fire, and emergency medical services agencies, ensuring accurate, timely, and effective emergency response.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Receive, screen, and prioritize incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and other public safety agencies
• Determine appropriate dispatch response and coordinate with police, fire, and EMS personnel
• Dispatch emergency personnel and monitor their status during incidents
• Provide pre-arrival instructions to callers when appropriate
• Maintain detailed logs of telephone and radio calls for all participating agencies and prepare monthly activity reports
• Enter, validate, and remove information in SPOT and NCIC systems, including missing persons and stolen property
• Monitor motor vehicle stops and perform driver background checks
• Process NICS checks for agencies issuing pistol permits
• Monitor and maintain alarm systems for businesses and residences and assist with resolving alarm issues
• Assist officers with information for incident, accident, arrest, and booking reports
• Use multiple computer systems and communication tools to support emergency response
• Perform related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local statutes, department policies, and dispatch procedures
• Knowledge of SPOTS and NCIC rules and regulations
• Knowledge of the geography and street systems of the service area
• Knowledge of public safety radio codes and dispatching protocols
• Skill in operating computers, dispatch software, radios, and surveillance systems
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure in emergency situations
• Strong interpersonal, public relations, and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and collaborative in high‑stress environments

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Work is performed primarily in a communications center
• Requires sitting, standing, stooping, and use of equipment requiring dexterity
• Occasional lifting of light to heavy objects

Minimum Qualifications

• Specialized training related to communications, dispatch, or public safety, in addition to a high school education
• One to two years of relevant experience or equivalent apprenticeship or internship experience
• Possession of or ability to obtain SPOTS and NCIC certification

Hours of Work:

40 hours a week

Union/Non-Exempt Position

The Town of Hanover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.