Communications Officer

Job Summary Communications officers report to the Communications and Records Supervisor, within the Support Services Division. Each Communications Officer is assigned as the primary Communications Center personnel for a patrol squad. As such, the Communications Officer performs critical functions, which include, but are not limited to, dispatching calls for service, providing support for personnel in the field, maintaining computer‑aided dispatch and other records, monitoring a variety of communication equipment/systems, and answering both emergency and non‑emergency calls. Responsibilities Communication–45 Specific duties include, but are not limited to: Receiving emergency and non‑emergency calls for service Dispatching requests for service to units in the field Maintaining records of shift activity, including within the computer‑aided dispatch system (CAD) Responding to requests for information from units in the field Operating, inspecting, and maintaining Communications Center equipment Monitoring alarm, surveillance, and security systems as needed Providing directions and assistance for responding emergency support units and the public Confirming warrants and GCIC/NCIC entries or inquiries Broadcasting emergency communications through departmental and institutional notification systems Data Processing/Entry–20 Enters, records, retrieves, and logs a variety of information in Public Safety databases, systems, and documents. These systems include, but are not limited to: ARMS or an equivalent records management system, Power DMS or an equivalent document management system, GCIC/NCIC, written or electronic pass‑on/activity logs, and computer‑aided dispatch or CAD. Customer Service–20 Serves as the forward‑facing point of contact for citizens entering the Public Safety headquarters. Activities include: Effectively greeting citizens seeking services or information Efficient triage and assessment of a citizen’s need for service The ability to implement an appropriate response to a need for service, in conjunction with departmental policies and procedures Cashier–10 Conducts transactions for services rendered by Public Safety. Such services may include notary, fingerprint services, and background checks. Other–5 Other Duties As Assigned. Required Qualifications Educational Requirements High school diploma or accredited GED equivalent Other Required Qualifications Must possess, or be able to obtain, and maintain certification as a Basic Communications Officer pursuant to the rules of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (rules available at Must be able to successfully pass a comprehensive background check, which will include an oral interview, a state and federal criminal history check, a nationwide sex offender search, a social security number check, a credit history check, a medical examination (for Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council), a drug screening, a psychological screening, an employment history check, and the verification of at least three professional/personal references. Required Experience 2years of work history, not necessarily in a related field, OR a combination of educational attainment and work history Preferred Qualifications Preferred attainment of an Associate’s Degree from an accredited college or university Preferred certification as a Basic Communications Officer pursuant to the rules of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council Preferred experience in a higher education environment Proposed Salary This position is a pay grade4. The available salary range is $26,777.00 to $36,608.00. Starting salary within this range is based on relevant years of experience. Equal Employment Opportunity Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG). The Board of Regents prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual's age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under any USG program or activity because of the individual's protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual's protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law. Other Information This is not a supervisory position. This position has financial responsibilities. This position will not be required to drive. This role is considered a position of trust. This position does not require a purchasing card (P‑Card). This position will not travel. This position requires security clearance. This position will be subject to pre‑employment drug screening and follow‑up random drug screenings may occur during the employment period. This position will require psychological and physical examinations as a condition of employment. Background Check Position of Trust Driving/Motor Vehicle Record Drug Test – This position will be subject to pre‑employment drug screening and follow‑up random drug screenings may occur during the employment period. Psychological – This position will be subject to a pre‑employment psychological screening. Physical – This position will be subject to a medical examination prior to attending Basic Communication School #J-18808-Ljbffr