Communications Officer/Dispatcher

Communications Officer/Dispatcher

Fort Valley State University (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for the position of Communications Officer/Dispatcher.

Fort Valley State University, the only 1890 land-grant university in Georgia, is a comprehensive institution that provides an education to over 2,800 students including graduate students. The university is located in the town of Fort Valley in Peach County, the original site of the state's peach industry. Its 1,365-acre campus is Georgia's second-largest public university in area.

Fort Valley State University is an equal opportunity employer. The University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or University System of Georgia policy.

Job Summary

The Communications Officer is the first point of contact for all emergency and non-emergency calls to Fort Valley State University and determines the nature of calls and deploys the appropriate personnel and/or equipment. The officer reports to the Communications Supervisor and police chain of command.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Receives and responds to incoming telephone calls and radio messages
• Provides direction and guidance to callers
• Monitors the electronic alarm systems and fire alarm system on continuous basis
• Operates multi-channel base radio
• Maintains records on telephone calls, radio messages and alarms
• Maintains daily log of all activities reported to the Office of Campus Police
• Dispatches Campus Police personnel to handle calls for services
• Monitors, records, and downloads CCTV video footage on the University's video surveillance system
• Utilizes the University's computer-based access control system to assist officers with opening and securing doors
• Utilizes the Georgia Crime Information and National Crime Information Center databases to assist police officers in the performance of their official duties
• Maintains, sorts, and files reports alphabetically, numerically, chronologically and by other predetermined categories; looks up information in files
• Maintains a clean and efficient office
• Assists with security details and special events in and around the University
• Works varying shifts (day and/or night)
• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Education or GED
• One to three months related experience and/or training
• Experience using computers (keyboarding, data entry, etc.)
• Keyboard/type 30-40 wpm
• Obtain Peace Officer Standard and Training (POST) certification as a Communications Officer within six (6) months of employment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent decision-making skills and the ability to think and act quickly

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree
• Two years related work experience
• Law enforcement experience
• Experience working on a college campus

Complexity and Scope of Work

• Always wear a designated uniform while on duty
• Work is performed primarily indoors, in a temperature-controlled environment
• Requires weekend, holiday, and day/night shift work
• Maintain POST certification as a Communications Officer

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Frequently required to sit; talk and listen
• Periodically required to reach with hands and arms
• Occasionally required to walk; and stoop, kneel, crouch or bend
• May be required to lifts up to approximately 25 pounds

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at

Fort Valley State University