Police Communications Operator

The University of North Florida Board of Trustees; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 19,923 - 28,375; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Florida Board of Trustees is hiring a Police Communications Operator (PCO) in Jacksonville. The PCO provides essential support to law enforcement and operates multiple communication systems vital for campus safety.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, relevant experience, and skills in communication and data management. This role requires the ability to manage emergency calls and support investigations in a fast-paced environment. Interested applicants should be prepared for a background check.

Qualifications

• 1 year of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must pass a background check.
• Physical ability to occasionally lift objects of approximately 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor police radio base stations and telephone systems.
• Receive and dispatch emergency and non‑emergency calls.
• Support investigations through data handling.
• Monitor fire alarm and campus security systems.

Skills

Clear verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information

Proficiency with computers and multi-system monitoring

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions

Physical ability to respond during emergencies

Education

High school diploma

State certification on NCIC/FCIC computer systems

Tools

Computer-aided dispatch software

Job description

Department: University Police Department
Compensation: $17.53 per hour

Overview

The Police Communications Operator (PCO) provides critical non-sworn support services to law enforcement by ensuring the continuous, accurate, and secure operation of a Public Safety Communications Center. The role is a central point of contact for emergency and non‑emergency communications, coordinating information between law enforcement officers, campus stakeholders, and external public safety agencies. The PCO operates and monitors multiple communication, alarm, and information systems essential to officer safety, campus security, and effective law enforcement operations. The position is pivotal during routine operations and emergency situations by receiving calls for service, dispatching resources, and maintaining situational awareness through real‑time information management.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor police radio base stations, telephone systems, computer‑aided dispatch software, recording devices, and university alerting systems.
• Receive, evaluate, prioritize, and dispatch emergency and non‑emergency calls for service.
• Operate FCIC/NCIC terminals to verify licenses, criminal history, and vehicle records.
• Monitor fire alarm, burglar, and campus security systems and notify appropriate personnel.
• Coordinate information with surrounding law‑enforcement agencies.
• Support criminal and confidential investigations through accurate data handling.
• Operate campus camera systems.
• Serve as Police Department receptionist and provide information and referrals.
• Implement emergency and special procedures, including off‑site duty during declared emergencies.

Marginal Functions

• Complete administrative documentation and logs.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Supervision

The PCO works under regular supervision; routine duties are performed independently.

Qualifications

• Clear verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.
• Proficiency with computers and multi‑system monitoring.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to occasionally move objects of approximately 40 lbs. or less.
• Physical ability to respond during emergencies.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma and at least 1 year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat.112.219. State certification on NCIC/FCIC computer systems is required.

Statement of Understanding

This position requires a background check, and may also require a credit check according to the University’s policy. The holder of this position is designated a “Responsible Employee” under TitleIX and must report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, or child sexual abuse promptly to the Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator.

Equal Opportunity

The University of NorthFlorida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive environment and prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status. UNF will not tolerate retaliation against individuals who report discrimination, harassment, or who cooperate in an investigation of a violation of university regulations.

Additional Information

UNF does not sponsor H‑1B visas for this position. Current UNF faculty, staff, and students may apply through the Workday UNF Jobs Hub.