Communications Officer I

Overview The Communications Officer I performs skilled technical and administrative communications work within the Regent University Police Department Communication Center. This position is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and transmitting critical information via radio, telephone, and multiple computer‑aided systems to support law enforcement and public safety operations. The Communications Officer I exercises independent judgment in processing inquiries, complaints, and requests for emergency and non‑emergency assistance, determining appropriate actions in accordance with training, departmental policies, legal mandates, and established procedures. By maintaining constant situational awareness, the Communications Officer I safeguards life, property, and security across the Regent University and Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) campuses. The role contributes to a comprehensive and integrated public safety program through effective communication, coordination, and collaboration with the campus community as well as local, state, and federal public safety partners. Work Location Virginia Beach, VA Essential duties Emergency Call Handling Receive and process emergency and non‑emergency requests via the telephone system and Computer‑Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, demonstrating proficient knowledge of telephony and CAD operations. Determine the appropriate response by assessing call priority, resource availability, and type/number of personnel needed. Coordinate response of additional public safety agencies (e.g., fire/rescue) as required to ensure efficient and timely assistance. NCIC/VCIN Operations Monitor and process messages through the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and Hampton Roads Law Enforcement Information Exchange (LInX). Perform inquiries, operate, and validate data regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registrations, and stolen vehicles, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations. Critical Incident Coordination Monitor and coordinate departmental and inter‑agency responses to critical incidents, maintaining effective communication between Campus Police officers in the field, university personnel, and outside emergency/law enforcement agencies. Equipment and System Operations Operate multiple communications and security systems, including radios, CAD, telephones, alarm monitoring systems, central station alarm systems, and video surveillance equipment. Conduct routine operational tests on communications and alarm systems, promptly reporting malfunctions. Radio Frequency Monitoring Monitor multiple radio frequencies, including those used by local police, fire, EMS, facilities services, and the Founders Inn, to maintain awareness of developing situations and support coordinated responses. Officer Safety and Information Management Solicit, receive, and relay sensitive or classified information to field units, coordinating responses and updating information in real time to enhance officer safety and situational awareness. Recordkeeping and Documentation Maintain accurate, timely, and complete records of all communications, dispatch activities, and database transactions in compliance with departmental policies, CJIS standards, and records retention requirements. Community Service and Engagement Provide professional, courteous, and empathetic service to all members of the Regent/CBN community, promoting safety, trust, and a spirit of partnership. Training and Development Participate in mandatory training, certifications, and continuing education to maintain proficiency in communications operations, emergency protocols, and applicable legal standards. Emergency Preparedness and Critical Incident Management Direct communications response during critical incidents, disasters, and large‑scale emergencies by ensuring accurate and timely information flow to support incident command and operational continuity. Coordinate mutual aid communications with surrounding law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies. Behavioral Intervention and Campus Safety Coordination – Receive and evaluate notifications and reports from the Regent University Behavioral Intervention Team (RUBIT), Maxient, and other campus reporting systems. Coordinate with the department’s designated point of contact to assist in triaging concerns, developing timely response notifications, and recommending appropriate investigative, safety, or intervention measures to support the well‑being of individuals and the security of the campus community. Crisis and Emergency Response Assist with communication support during major incidents, emergencies, and disaster operations by ensuring accurate and timely information flow to support incident command and operational continuity. Work Environment May require extended hours and shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Essential On‑Campus Personnel - Employees who, due to the nature of the services you provide, are expected to physically report to perform work on campus during inclement weather and other situations in which the normal on‑campus schedule is suspended. Judgment, Discretion, and Confidentiality Ability to operate with the highest level of confidentiality, integrity, and discretion, particularly in handling sensitive criminal investigations and personnel matters. Proven ability to analyze and interpret complex investigative reports, legal documents, and policy materials, applying discernment and sound decision‑making. Qualifications Education: High school diploma or GED required. An associate's degree or a bachelor’s degree is preferred. Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification. Must have successful background investigation, psychological, and drug and alcohol test. Strong typing skills and demonstrate competence in Outlook, Word, Excel, and Internet applications. Be physically, emotionally, and mentally fit for duty, passing exams required annually or as directed. Attends and successfully completes the Campus Police Communications Academy, HRCJTA, and on‑the‑job training, to include achievement of needed certifications. Prerequisites for the Job: Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving history. Commitment to Regent’s core values of Excellence, Innovation, and Integrity Benefits Regent offers a wide range of generous benefits including health, life and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; tuition incentives; fully vested retirement plans; life and disability insurance options, time off, and more. All regular faculty and staff serving at Regent and working a minimum of 30 hours per week will receive an attractive benefits package. Salary Range $38,000–42,000 DISQUALIFIERS FOR REGENT UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT Criminal History Conviction, guilty plea or no contest plea of any felony. Conviction, guilty plea, or no contest plea of any misdemeanor sex offense, including but not limited to sexual battery under Virginia Code §18.2‑67.4 or consensual sexual intercourse with a minor 15 or older under clause (ii) of Virginia Code §18.2‑371 or any crime requiring registration in the Virginia Sex Offender Registry. Conviction, guilty plea, or no contest plea of domestic assault under Virginia Code §18.2‑57.2 or any offense that would be domestic assault under the laws of another state or the United States. Conviction, guilty plea, or no contest plea of any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, including but not limited to petit larceny under Virginia Code §18.2‑96 or any offense involving moral turpitude that would be a misdemeanor if committed in the Commonwealth. Driving History Any conviction, guilty plea or no contest plea of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, refusal to take blood or breath test, eluding police, racing, or leaving the scene of an accident within the last 5 years. Drugs Sale of any drug listed in the drug standards and schedules set forth in Virginia Code §54.1‑3443 et seq. without a valid license authorizing sale of specified drugs. Any other distribution will be evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis. Unlawful use or possession of any illegal drug, including but not limited to heroin, cocaine, hallucinogens, methamphetamine, etc. or any derivative thereof (except marijuana) within the last 5 years. Illegal use or possession of anabolic steroids within the last three (3) years. Others Dishonorable discharge from any military service. Untruthfulness and/or the intentional withholding of information on any application, interview, or paperwork associated with the position. Examples of intentional withholding of information would include deliberate inaccuracies or incomplete statements. Intentional failure to follow the directions outlined in the testing process or relying on others to complete any portion of the testing process. Regent University does not discriminate in employment in its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age or veteran status. For full Non-Discrimination Policy click here. #J-18808-Ljbffr