Public Safety Dispatcher

StartupNWA; Fort Smith (AR); On-site; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition waivers for employees and your

12 official holidays

retirement programs

Job summary

The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith is seeking a Public Safety Dispatcher to provide central dispatch services for the University Police Department. Working under general supervision, you will receive emergency and non-emergency calls and coordinate responses, including fire, EMS, and other agencies.

Requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, at least one year in public safety communications, and ACIC/NCIC training.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include high school diploma or equivalent; plus one year of experience in the operation of public safety or related communication equipment.
• Must have or obtain ACIC/NCIC computer training and certification.
• Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements.
• Previous dispatch experience in a public safety environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receives emergency and non-emergency calls for service and initiates appropriate responses, including dispatching UPD officers and requesting other agencies.
• Uses computer databases to retrieve driver’s license/vehicle information and issue permits.
• Monitors officer status, logs calls, and assists with report entry.
• Completes various administrative tasks in support of dispatch operations.

Skills

Emergency dispatch experience

Strong communication skills

Ability to work under pressure

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

ACIC/NCIC training

Job description

Current University of Arkansas System employees, including student employees and graduate assistants, need to log in to Workday via MyApps.Microsoft.com, then access Find Jobs from the Workday search bar to view and apply for open positions. Students at University of Arkansas System will also view open positions and apply within Workday by searching for “Find Jobs for Students”. All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).

Type of Position:

Staff - Public Safety

Workstudy Position:

No

Job Type:

Regular

Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)

Sponsorship Available:

No

Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands‑on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi‑faced approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work‑life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Location:

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Department:

University Police Department

Summary of Job Duties:

The Public Safety Dispatcher works under general supervision in a team‑oriented setting and is responsible for providing central dispatch services for the University Police Department (UPD). This position is governed by law enforcement standards and departmental and institutional policy. The position reports to the Chief of Police.

Qualifications:

Required Education and/or Work Experience: Minimum requirements include high school diploma or equivalent; plus one year of experience in the operation of public safety or related communication equipment; a stable work history; and a valid driver’s license. Previous dispatch experience in a non‑public safety related field may be considered. Must have or obtain ACIC/NCIC computer training and certification. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receives emergency and non‑emergency calls for service, determines the nature and severity of calls received, and initiates the appropriate response, to include dispatching UPD officers and requesting response from fire department, emergency medical, or other agency police personnel. (60%)
• Uses computers/database to retrieve driver’s license and vehicle information, check for warrants, and access other law enforcement data, and issues parking permits. (20%)
• Monitors and records the status of patrol officers, maintains accurate log of calls for service and response activity, and assists officers with report entry. (14%)
• Completes various administrative tasks. (4%)

Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates. Requires consistent on‑time attendance.

Other Job Duties and Responsibilities (2%):

• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Understands communications equipment and usage procedures.
• Understands emergency response procedures and is able to remain calm and perform effectively during stressful, emergency episodes.
• Effective interpersonal skills and communication techniques.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Understands modern office equipment and procedures.
• Ability to deal with diverse populations in a positive manner.
• Ability to maintain and honor confidentiality as required by law.

Qualification Equivalencies: Applicable equivalencies may be considered on the qualification listed above.

Working Relationships: Has frequent contact with departmental personnel; various public safety officials; University staff, faculty, and students; and local residents; and works in a culturally diverse environment.

List Employees Supervised: None.

Special Job Dimensions: Work performed primarily in an office setting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, relatively detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 10 pounds. Occasional shift work and schedule flexibility required. Dispatcher shifts are commonly 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Background Check Requirements. Criminal background check, financial history background check, sex offender registry check, MVR (Motor Vehicle Registry) check, drug screening, physical and psychological examinations.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Salary Information:

$33,000-$36,000

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume

Pre‑employment Screening Requirements:

Criminal Background Check, Financial Credit Check, Motor Vehicle Reports Check

This position may be subject to a pre‑employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non‑discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University’s Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity:

N/A

Frequent Physical Activity:

N/A

Occasional Physical Activity:

Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding

Benefits Eligible:

Yes