Public Safety Dispatcher

Washington and Lee University; Lexington (VA); On-site; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a dedicated dispatch service provider to ensure effective communication within the campus community and external emergency services. This role is crucial for maintaining safety and security, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, demonstrating excellent customer service and communication skills while handling sensitive information with discretion. If you are detail-oriented and enjoy working collaboratively, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a safe and welcoming campus atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior dispatch center experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receive and act on emergency and non-emergency calls.
• Maintain communication with Public Safety staff and outside agencies.
• Provide excellent customer service to students and visitors.

Skills

Effective communication

Record maintenance

Organizational skills

Multi-tasking

Customer service

Ability to handle confidential information

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CAD/RMS systems

CCTV camera systems

Access control systems

Basic computer applications

Job description

Job Description:

Provides highly service-oriented dispatch services, responsible for maintaining effective and efficient communications among the Public Safety dispatch center, officers in the field, outside emergency services agencies, the campus community, and the public.

Washington and Lee University actively promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in their areas of expertise.

Essential Functions:

• Receives and takes action on all emergency and non-emergency calls made to Public Safety.
• Dispatches Public Safety staff as necessary and appropriate, and maintains communication to ensure that all pertinent information is received.
• Coordinates responses to incoming calls involving Student Affairs, Counseling Center, or other departments on campus, as well as law enforcement agencies.
• Able to collaborate and work effectively with colleagues in order to respond to issues and conflicts within the team quickly and effectively.
• Maintains appropriate logs and records within the dispatch function of the department.
• Receives and transfers calls on the University switchboard system. Monitors alarm systems, CCTV camera systems, two-way radios, and other security-related technologies in the Public Safety dispatch center.
• Acts as a knowledgeable resource to students, staff and visitors to campus. Provides general information such as directions as well as more up-to-date information about campus events.
• Sets high standards and provides excellent customer service to students, staff, faculty, and visitors.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Ability to work all shifts, including weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Position requires a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior dispatch center experience is preferred.
• Strong record maintenance skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Must be a self-starter and have the ability to work independently, as well as to communicate and interact effectively in a professional, confidential, and courteous manner with team members, visitors, faculty, staff, and students.
• Must be detail-oriented, have the ability to multi-task, and possess strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to use computers to read and respond to emails and to use basic applications is also required.
• Prior experience with security-related technologies preferred (i.e., CAD/RMS systems, CCTV camera systems, access control systems, etc.).
• Successful candidates will possess a high degree of reliability.
• Successful candidates will also possess the ability to relate well to students, faculty, staff, and the broader campus community.
• Must possess a valid Virginia driver’s license and a good driving history.
• Must be able to pass an extensive background check.

Application Instructions: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Resume and cover letter are required. Upload both required documents to the Resume/CV upload section of the application. You will be asked to provide names and contact information for three professional references.

Campus Safety and Welfare Responsibilities:

• This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) in accordance with the Clery Act. This position is required to report Clery qualifying crimes to the Department of Public Safety and complete annual training about your reporting responsibilities under the law.

Position Type: Non-Exempt, Full Time, Benefit Eligible

Minimum Pay: $17.75 - Pay Commensurate with Experience

Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.