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Communications Specialist - Georgetown University Police Communications Center

Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022

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Georgetown University comprises two unique campuses in the nation’s capital. With the Hilltop Campus located in the heart of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, and the Capitol Campus, just minutes from the U.S. Capitol and U.S. Supreme Court, Georgetown University offers rigorous academic programs, a global perspective, and unparalleled opportunities to engage with Washington, D.C. Our community is a close-knit group of remarkable individuals driven by intellectual inquiry, a commitment to social justice, and a shared dedication to making a difference in the world.

Job Overview Police Communications Dispatchers who are Licensed Communications Operators and Dispatchers staff the Georgetown University Police Communications Center. They are responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls for service, dispatching these calls, initiating EMS responses, and monitoring alarm systems. Incumbents answer calls from the public regarding all types of emergencies ranging from crimes being committed to various kinds of university community needs. Communications Dispatcher shifts are days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

The job requires significant knowledge, skill, and ability in responding to citizen needs and dispatching police officers to calls for service. The work can be fast‑paced, time‑critical, stressful, and demanding, requiring good communication skills, the ability to multi‑task, and resource management skills. They may work alone or partnered with another Communications Officer or Dispatcher with little supervision. When dealing with callers, Communications Operators must remain calm and collected at all times and display strong communication skills, prioritizing calls based on the caller’s emergency level. Communications Operators are CPR, Public Safety, Tele‑communicator trained through APCO, and Incident Command System (ICS) trained through FEMA, at a minimum.

Key Responsibilities The Communications Operator works in the Department of Public Safety 24 hours a day, 7 days a week as a public safety answering point (PSAP). Responsibilities include answering emergency telephone lines, dispatching police officers, monitoring the university fire alarm system and closed‑circuit television (CCTV) security system, and providing information and customer service to the university community via telephone and walk‑up. This position reports to the Shift Supervisor, works independently with general supervision, and collaborates with other dispatchers, patrol officers, operators, security officers, and student guards.

Requirements and Qualifications

High School Diploma (or equivalent) required. College Degree preferred, but not required.

At least 2 years of general work experience required; 1 to 2 years of related dispatcher experience preferred.

An equivalent combination of training, education and/or experience may be considered in place of above requirements.

Demonstrated ability to multi‑task and remain calm while performing complex operations under stress.

Training new Communications Center staff, performing clerical tasks such as updating and maintaining departmental records.

Maintaining APCO certifications and current knowledge of police communications methods and practices.

Ability to obtain Washington DC Police Service Center (WALES/NCIC) clearance via background check.

Typing speed of 35 words per minute; a typing test will be administered to all applicants.

Technical Qualifications or Specialized Certification

Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Must qualify for a Security Officer License in the District of Columbia.

No felony convictions or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude or gross misconduct.

Valid driver’s license with no violations in the last three years.

Subject to drug test, physical examination, and comprehensive background investigation.

Meet the physical requirements of the position, including daily responsibilities.

Comfortable using computers such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and email; proficient typing skills.

Intermediate knowledge of criminal and civil law and police policies and procedures.

High degree of ethical behavior and adherence to university standards and legal environment.

Professional demeanor, tact, and courtesy in dealing with students, staff, faculty, visitors, and community members.

Knowledgeable of applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including report writing.

Work Mode Designation This position has been designated as On‑Campus. It is subject to on‑call requirements and may include rotating day, evening, and overnight shifts with fluctuating days off according to departmental needs.

Benefits Georgetown University offers a comprehensive and competitive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; retirement savings; tuition assistance; work‑life balance benefits; employee discounts; and voluntary insurance options. Eligibility details are available on the Department of Human Resources website.

EEO Statement GU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, citizenship, color, disability, family responsibilities, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, personal appearance, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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