Police Communications Dispatcher

Chatham University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 41,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Chatham University seeks a Police Communications Dispatcher to join the Department of Public Safety. The dispatcher will prioritize calls, dispatch officers, and maintain communication to ensure the safety of the university community. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to handle pressure are essential.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in emergency dispatch or public safety communications.
• Ability to obtain PA CLEAN and FBI/NCIC access within 30 days.
• APCO certification within one year and ongoing training.

Responsibilities

• Dispatch police and security personnel to emergency calls.
• Maintain logs and communication records using ARMS CAD software.
• Monitor security systems, including CCTV.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Typing skills

Ability to multitask

Reliability

Decision making

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Police Communications Dispatcher

Chatham University is seeking a dedicated and professional Police Communications Dispatcher (PCD) to join the Department of Public Safety. The PCD is responsible for analyzing, prioritizing, and processing incoming calls for service, appropriately dispatching officers, and maintaining radio contact to ensure law enforcement services are delivered safely and efficiently following all required standards. Dispatchers will engage with several systems to ensure timely and accurate communication that supports the safety and well-being of the Chatham University community.

This role is critical to Chatham's commitment to a secure and inclusive campus environment and requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to stay composed under pressure.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Dispatch police and security personnel to emergency and routine calls.
• Receive and acknowledge all radio transmissions, phone calls, walk-ins, and alarm notifications.
• Maintain detailed logs and communication records of all calls for service using the ARMS Computer Aided Dispatch software.
• Ensure high-quality customer service through effective communication and timely coordination of dispatch activities.
• Monitor and operate all security systems, including CCTV and access control.
• Monitor local police radio traffic and notify CUPD officers of adjacent activity.
• Access state and national records systems upon officer request.
• Report identified maintenance and life safety issues via internal work order system or telephone notification.
• Report safety concerns or unusual activity to the appropriate supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of experience in emergency dispatch, 911, or public safety communications; Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Ability to obtain access to PA CLEAN and FBI/NCIC systems within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to complete APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials) certification within one year and remain current in required and ongoing training.
• Ability to pass a thorough background check and drug screening.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and focused in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong typing (40-45 WPM suggested) and familiarity with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to evaluate situations independently and make appropriate decisions in accordance with departmental policy.
• Ability to multitask, work independently, and collaboratively as part of a team
• Reliability and punctuality.
• Commitment to acting ethically, legally, and with integrity.

Salary Range:

$41,900,000 - 45,000 annually.

40-hour work week.

Exact compensation based on candidate skills and experience.

How to Apply:

Applications accepted only via www.chatham.edu/careers(direct link is https://chatham.applicantpro.com/jobs/3745318) and follow the instructions to complete the application process. To ensure full consideration, please include:

• Cover Letter outlining your qualifications for the position

• Curriculum Vitae or Resume

• Contact information for three professional references

All application materials should be uploaded at the same time at the time of application. The system will not allow applicants to make edits to their applications after submission.

Chatham University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. Persons of color, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. Chatham University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, or national origin.