Communications Officer

Communications Officer The George Mason University Department of Police and Public Safety invites applications for the position of Communications Officer. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason's academic and culturally inclusive environment.Responsibilities:The Communications Officer (Police Dispatcher) works in the University Police Department's 24/7 Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP); and performs a variety of communications and operational tasks in support of public safety, security, and law enforcement operations in accordance with existing university, state and federal guidelines. Duties include answering emergency telephone lines, dispatching police officers via radio and CAD, monitoring the NCIC/VCIN computer terminal, monitoring the university fire alarm and panic alarm systems, monitoring the university closed-circuit television (CCTV) security system, and providing information and customer service to the university community via telephone, computer, and a walk-up window. Required Qualifications:Work rotating shifts, including evening and overnight shifts as well as holidays;Assist the public in a professional manner;Ability to multitask and prioritize in a very busy police communications center;Ability to communicate effectively via telephone, radio, computer, and in-person;Ability to view and monitor computer screens, various computer apps, and audible alarm systems;Ability to verbally receive, process, and record messages;Ability to type at least 30-35 words per minute;Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time;Experience operating computers using Microsoft platforms and email;Ability to perform well under stress in a calm, efficient manner;Ability to analyze all emergency situations to determine course of action and solve problems; excellent judgment and decision-making skills;Knowledge and skills in managing and prioritizing emergency communication incidents;Ability to communicate verbally with adequate radio voice with no speech limitations;Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, and verbal/written communication skills;Assist the public in a professional manner; excellent public relations/customer service skills;Ability to provide professional/caring community-oriented service;Ability to communicate respectfully to internal and external customers, appreciate diversity and respects differences, maintain confidentiality;Knowledge of basic public safety communications concepts and fundamentals;Ability to work with teams or independently with minimal supervision at times;Possess a high school diploma or equivalency;Have no driving under the influence (DUI) convictions within the past two years;Have no illegal or illicit drug use within the past two years;Successfully pass an in-depth background investigation;Successfully complete a mandated Communications Officer training program administered by the department; andMust live within 75 miles of the Fairfax campus.National Crime Information Center/Virginia Crime Information Network (NCIC/VCIN) Operator Requirements as set out by the FBI Criminal Justice Information System:No felony convictions or convictions of misdemeanors involving crimes of moral turpitude or gross misconduct;Must not currently be wanted for any crime;Must not have been found guilty by reason of mental illness for any crime;Be a U.S. citizen or have been a lawful resident of the U.S. for the past 10 consecutive years;Be able to pass an extensive background investigation to include a polygraph and psychological assessment;Be able to attend and successfully complete an 80-hour police communications course at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy; andBecome certified and maintain a NCIC/VCIN Full Access certification.Preferred Qualifications:Previous experience working in an emergency communications center is highly desired.Both new and current state employees will be required to serve a one-year probationary period upon hire.

For full consideration, applicants must apply at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.

"Great Careers Begin at Mason! George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with national distinction in both academics and research. Mason holds a top U.S. News and World Report "Up and Coming" spot for national universities and is recognized for its global appeal and excellence in higher education.Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.If you are interested in joining the Mason family take a look at our current opportunities and catch some Mason spirit at jobs.gmu.edu/!George Mason University, Where Innovation is Tradition."

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.