Communications Officer

The University of Southern Mississippi; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking a Communications Officer to operate the Communications Center for the University Police Department in Hattiesburg, MS. The role serves as the main contact point 24/7 for safety and emergency communications across all campuses.

Responsibilities include handling calls, dispatching officers via ARMS, monitoring NCIC and alarms, and coordinating with state and local agencies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required or equivalent.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s or Associate Degree.
• Knowledge of Windows-based computers and law enforcement software, including MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Answers emergency and non-emergency calls and coordinates law enforcement response.
• Dispatches calls to officers and personnel using ARMS.
• Monitors NCIC transmissions and messages.
• Monitors campus emergency phones across all USM campuses.
• Coordinates with other law enforcement agencies as needed.
• Monitors alarm monitoring systems and dispatches appropriate personnel.

Skills

Windows-based systems

MS Office

Email communication

Police radio operation

Multi-tasking under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s or Associate Degree (preferred)

Tools

ARMS (Automated Records Management System)

NCIC monitoring

Alarm monitoring systems

Job description

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Communications Officer.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States Division University Police Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Pay Grade

N04

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

Operates the Communications Center, which serves as the main communications point for the University Police Department, which is staffed and operating 24 hours a day.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Answers emergency and non-emergency phone calls and coordinates the response of law enforcement officers to crime and accident scenes. Uses two-way radio systems to transmit details to officers, coordinates with other emergency personnel, such as fire fighters and paramedics, for response to calls as needed. UPD communications serves all USM campuses, including Hattiesburg, Gulf Park, GCRL, and Cedar Point.
• Using experience and discretion, to prioritize calls and requests for service and dispatches these calls to the appropriate officers and other personnel using the Automated Record Management System (ARMS).
• Monitors NCIC (National Crime Information Center) transmissions and messages.
• Monitors campus emergency telephones located throughout the campuses.
• Communicates with, and coordinates with other law enforcement agencies as needed.
• Monitors the universities alarm monitoring systems and acknowledging, dispatching appropriate personnel, and resetting fire alarms, burglar alarms, duress alarms, and general trouble alarms.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic knowledge and skill within Windows-based computers and law enforcement related software applications, to include Microsoft Office applications, ability to use email to send and receive correspondence, proficiency in use of search engines.
• Ability to use a personal computer and associated software, police radio, and basic office equipment.
• Ability to manage police communication responses to critical incidents such as fires, violent crimes, and incidents.
• Ability to concentrate and multi-task during periods of high intensity activity.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Associate Degree from an accredited college or university.
• One year of related experience in dispatch or law enforcement, or an acceptable combination of education and experience.
• Professional Certificate from the Board of Emergency Telecommunications Standards and Training

About The University Of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.