Communications Officer - Game Day

University of Mississippi; United States; On-site; USD 25,678 - 38,517; Part time

Job summary

The University of Mississippi is seeking a temporary, as-needed special events dispatcher for the University Police Department. Applicants must hold an MS BETST Certified Dispatcher credential and have at least 4 years of relevant experience.

This position includes responsibilities such as answering emergency calls, dispatching police officers, and operating advanced equipment during special events like football games and graduation ceremonies.

The compensation ranges from $18.64 to $27.96 per hour, based on experience.

Qualifications

• Must hold an MS BETST Certified Dispatcher credential.
• Relevant experience of 4 years is required.

Responsibilities

• Answer, direct, and make both emergency and non-emergency calls.
• Dispatch University Police Officers to calls for service.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and personal ethics.
• Coordinate multi-agency incident responses.
• Operate and conduct minor troubleshooting on advanced equipment.
• Monitor campus-wide camera and alarm systems.

Skills

Technologically savvy

Reliable

Quick thinking

Expert multi-tasker

Calm under pressure

Superior customer service

Quick, accurate, and thorough documentation

Clear and concise communication

Strong ethics

Desire to serve the Ole Miss community

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

This is a temporary, as‑needed special events dispatcher position in the University Police Department. Applicants must already hold an MS BETST Certified Dispatcher credential; uncertified individuals will not be considered. For permanent full‑time dispatchers, see the Communications Officer listing that does not include "temporary" in the title. Special events include home football games, graduation, natural disasters, concerts, and other high‑profile events. 2026 home football dates are:

September 12, 19October 17, 31November 7, 21, 27Four‑to‑twelve hour time slots are available throughout the day, sometimes starting as early as 6 a.m. and ending as late as 2 a.m. Friday nights prior to game day are also available as needed. Applicants may sign up for as many dates as they wish but are asked to be available for at least two of those dates.

Skills Desired

• Technologically savvy
• Reliable
• Quick thinking
• Expert multi‑tasker
• Calm under pressure
• Superior customer service
• Quick, accurate, and thorough documentation
• Clear and concise communication
• Strong ethics
• A desire to serve the Ole Miss community

Job Responsibilities

• Answer, direct, and make both emergency and non‑emergency phone calls.
• Operate multi‑channel handheld and console radios.
• Dispatch University Police Officers to calls for service.
• Become familiar with departmental policies and procedures.
• Maintain the highest level of personal and professional ethics.
• Maintain strict confidentiality.
• Follow after‑hours notification procedures.
• Coordinate multi‑agency incident response (Oxford Police, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, Oxford Fire, Baptist EMS, etc.).
• Act as an answering point for and delegate tasks to other departments (Parking and Transportation, Facilities, Housing, Counseling, etc.).
• Determine appropriate priority and complete multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Code calls and record details appropriately for proper response and reporting purposes.
• Utilize numerous databases.
• Operate advanced equipment and conduct minor troubleshooting as needed.
• Monitor campus‑wide camera systems and alarm systems.
• Facilitate a positive relationship between UPD and the community.
• Maintain composure during times of crisis.
• Assign responding units as necessary.
• Facilitate emergency translation services.
• Monitor weather conditions and relay information for campus safety.
• Provide communications for special events such as athletics, Greek, Commencement, entertainment, and protection details.
• Assist internal divisions as requested (Patrol, Investigations, Accreditation, Campus Safety, Emergency Management, etc.).

Examples of Common Calls

• Wrecks, jump starts, unlocks, welfare concerns, mental health crisis, parking complaints, conflict resolution, damage to property, missing property, substance issues, alarms, traffic stops, medical, safety escorts, building checks, parking lot checks, etc.

Education Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent (Required)

Experience

• Relevant experience | 4 years | Required

Compensation

$18.64 – $27.96 per hour.

Interview Requirement

Any candidate called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. University of Mississippi conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.