Part-time 911 dispatcher Valparaiso, IN, US

Valparaiso University; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

Valparaiso University Police Department seeks a Part-Time / Shift Work Dispatcher to handle 911 and campus safety communications, monitor alarms, and coordinate with police, EMS, and facility teams. Duties include after-hours dispatch for facilities, data entry, and safety notifications.

Requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, clear communication, and proficiency with CAD systems and radio equipment; background checks and IDACS certification may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in dispatching preferred but not required; training available.

Responsibilities

• Answer 911 and non-emergency calls and route to appropriate responders.
• Dispatch police, campus safety, and emergency services as needed.
• Monitor alarms, building access, and surveillance systems.
• Relay data to officers, local law enforcement, or EMS.
• Process safety requests and campus notifications via VALPO SAFE app.
• Maintain dispatch log and route walk-in victims or visitors.

Skills

Clear speaking voice

Active listening

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CAD systems

Radio equipment

IDACS certification

Job description

Position Description:

The Valparaiso University Police Department (VUPD) 911/Dispatcher receives incoming emergency and non-emergency calls, operates radio and computer systems, monitors campus safety alarms (Fire/Break-in alarms), and dispatches police and emergency services. Operating 24/7/365 out of the VUPD 911 Center at 813 LaPorte Ave, dispatchers support community policing, field safety, and regional communication networks. After-hours campus operator and maintenance dispatcher.

Position Overview:

Job Title: VUPD 911 Dispatcher / Public Safety Communications Operator
Department: Valparaiso University Police Department
Location: 813 LaPorte Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383
Employment Type: Part-Time / Shift Work (24/7 rotation, including holidays and weekends)

Major Responsibilities:

• Emergency Communications: Answer incoming 911 emergency lines, routine calls, campus "Blue Light" emergency phones, and building call boxes.
• Non-Emergency Communication: During after hours, dispatch service calls for Facility Management and university operator.
• Resource Dispatching: Relay critical radio and telephone data to dispatch VUPD officers, local law enforcement, or local fire and EMS units.
• Campus Safety Monitoring: Actively track campus alarm circuits, building access systems, and security surveillance cameras.
• App Integration: Monitor and process safety requests, location sharing, and emergency alerts submitted via the VALPO SAFE mobile app.
• Mass Notification: Issue campus safety alerts and emergency notifications.
• Information Retrieval: Access state and federal law enforcement databases to run vehicle registrations, warrants, and background checks for field personnel.
• Clerical Duties: Maintain the electronic dispatch log, input facilities work orders, and route walk-in victims or visitors appropriately.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Prior dispatch experience preferred.

Other Qualifications:

• Communication: Clear speaking voice and active listening skills.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone networks, and radio equipment.
• Multitasking: Skill to extract accurate data from frantic callers while typing and dispatching units simultaneously.
• Certifications: Ability to obtain and maintain IDACS (Indiana Data and Communications System) certification.
• Background Clearance: Must clear a thorough criminal background check, and fingerprinting.

Candidates must uphold the VUPD Core Values in every interaction:

• Integrity: Honest, truthful, and trustworthy conduct both on and off duty.
• Respect: Compassionate, mindful service that ensures fair, impartial, and unbiased policing while embracing diversity.
• Service: Strong partnerships with students, faculty, and staff that prioritize community safety and foster a secure campus culture.
• Accountability: Full ownership of law enforcement duties, dedication to upholding professional standards, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.