The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
- Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
- Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
- Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
- Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture
Join Howard University and thrive with us! JOB PURPOSE: Monitor the Computer Aided Dispatch System (CAD) and respond to radio frequencies, telephone lines, CCTV's monitors and alarm systems. The Police Dispatcher operates within the Howard University Department of Public Safety's Security Operations Communications Center (SOCC), a multitasked environment that serves as a liaison between university personnel, visitors, and law enforcement agencies, Fire and EMS personnel that are notified in the event of safety and medical emergencies that occur within Howard University and university owned properties.
SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: No supervisory responsibility.
NATURE AND SCOPE: - Internal contacts include: Public Safety personnel, University administrators, faculty, students and staff.
- External contacts may include the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and other law enforcement agencies, the Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: - Receives non-emergency and emergency calls for police assistance, categorizes and prioritizes them before relaying appropriate information to the Howard University Department of Public Safety (HUDPS) and/or Metropolitan Police Department
- Dispatches HU-DPS personnel on patrol to various locations in response lo emergency calls, as instructed and receives requests for information, assistance and instructions from officers in the field.
- Responsible for receiving calls from the public In a manner that all necessary information is obtained, that the person making the call is reassured, and that the appropriate action is taken In a timely fashion; must always provide guidance, support and information to callers in a stressful situation.
- Receives calls from university personnel and the public on problems after regular business hours, and contacts appropriate personnel as necessary.
- Responsible for ensuring that proper radio procedures are being followed at all times.
- Maintains dispatch logs and records concerning Incoming calls, communications with officers in the field, reports of abandoned autos, license checks, Information checks, messages, weather reports and other incidents as required. Must maintain all information in an up-to-date, accurate and retrievable manner.
- Performs dally inspection of equipment to ensure their functionality. Reports all defects or malfunctions to communications equipment immediately, and makes requests for repairs as necessary. Must ensure that requests for repairs are followed-up until completion.
- Assists other sections of HU-DPS in message taking and other duties as necessary.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
CORE COMPETENCIES: - Designated as an essential employee, may be required to remain on duty beyond normal shift and/or be available on a 24-hour basis to report for duty without advance notice due to emergencies or staffing shortages.
- Proficiency in the application of computer based applications, MS Word, Excel, Records Management systems, standard office equipment; and must possess a minimum typing speed of 25 wpm.
- Knowledge of two-way radios, telephone equipment and other equipment located in a communications center.
- Ability to discern between emergency and non-emergency situations, requests and calls for service; and the ability to apply appropriate levels of response, in accordance to established protocol.
- Ability to exercise strong verbal communication skills, including voice enunciation, projection, articulation, control and command; must project a voice compatible in tone and diction with the radio and telephone systems, including communicating coherently over law enforcement radio frequencies.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing within a diverse multi-cultural environment; must be detailed oriented and organized.
- Ability to learn and interpret university and departmental policies, procedures, rules and regulations and the ability to apply and keep abreast of periodic revisions.
- Ability to learn and Interpret Incident and Offense and various communications reports and appropriate police terminology, codes and procedures.
- Must be able to perform full range of motion activities, such as, but not limited to, walking, standing or sitting for an extended period of time; and moderate lifting. Must be able to hear alarms and other auditory warning devices.
- Ability to obtain required certifications and on-going continuing Professional Training requirements; and the ability to update job knowledge through classroom, on the job, and self-initiating training.
- Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high-level of confidentiality and work independently in the absence of supervision.
- Must be capable of maintaining composure to effectively handle sudden emergencies and possess the ability to perform multiple tasks under pressure.
- Ability to identify problems, relate findings and report facts with accuracy and precision; and to apply independent judgment and decision making aptitude, particularly in situations pertaining to officer safety and overall public safety and security.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma or GED
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure Expected Pay Range: $54,545-$60,000