The Catholic University of America

The Communications Specialist operates in a multitasked environment and serves as the first point of contact for faculty, staff, students, guests, visitors, and affiliates of the university. The Communications Specialist simultaneously monitors and responds to radio frequencies, telephone lines, CCTVs, monitors, and alarm systems.

The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is: $24.00 - $25.30.

• Daily inspects the function of all intrusion alarms, fire alarms, access control, CCTV cameras, emergency telephone systems, radios, batteries and chargers to ensure their functionality.
• Monitor the intrusion and fire alarms, access control and CCTV cameras in an accurate and careful manner.
• Receives and dispatches calls for service including but not limited to emergency situations.
• Performs data entry using the department’s automated records management system, Informant Technologies.
• Ensures all appropriate entries are made to all logs maintained by DPS to include The Patrol Signal Systems book.
• Assist in the activation of the Dispatch Operations Command Center (DOCC) upon notification of the Director of DPS and the Joint Operations Command Center (JOCC) that an emergency situation is anticipated or has erupted.
• Monitors the RAVE Guardian interface and sends emergency notification using RAVE Alert effectively.
• Utilize surveillance camera system and assist investigators with recorded video.
• Aid Shift Supervisors to bring closure to all open assignments as directed.
• Other duties as assigned.

• High School and G.E.D. equivalent.
• Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) certification preferred.
• Proficiency in the application of computer-based applications, MS word, Excel, Records management systems.
• Must be capable of maintaining composure to effectively handle sudden emergency situations.
• Designated as an essential employee, incumbent may be required to remain on duty beyond normal shift and/or be available on a 24-hour basis to report for duty without advance notice due to emergencies or staffing shortages.
• Candidates selected for this position will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to random drug testing.

• The ability to identify problems, relate findings and report facts accurately and precisely.

• Ability to apply sound judgment and decision-making aptitude, particularly in situations pertaining to officer safety and overall public safety and security.

   

• The ability to exercise strong verbal communication skills, including voice enunciation, projection, articulation, control, and command.

   

• Capability to maintain a calm manner, make decisions and act quickly in stressful and emergency situations, and to adjust to changing conditions to meet emergency requirements.

   

• Must project a voice compatible in tone and diction with the radio and telephone systems, including communicating coherently over law enforcement radio frequencies.

   

• Ability to effectively and efficiently communicate with a diverse population of constituencies with sensitivity, courtesy, enthusiasm, and tact, particularly as it relates to fielding and responding to inquiries and complaints.

   

• Ability to discern between emergency and nonemergency situations, circumstances, requests, and calls for service in the interest and applying appropriate levels of response in accordance with established protocol.

   

• Ability to understand, apply and explain provision of university rules, regulations, policies, procedures, guidelines, etc.