Communication Specialist

$40,500 - $45,500/Yr

Catholic University Of America - Washington, DC

Full-time

Washington, DC

Educational Services

About the position

The Communications Specialist at The Catholic University of America plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the university community. This position operates in a dynamic, multi-tasked environment, serving as the first point of contact for faculty, staff, students, guests, visitors, and affiliates. The specialist is responsible for monitoring and responding to various communication systems, including radio frequencies, telephone lines, CCTVs, and alarm systems, ensuring that all systems function effectively and efficiently. Daily responsibilities include inspecting the functionality of intrusion alarms, fire alarms, access control systems, CCTV cameras, and emergency telephone systems. The Communications Specialist must monitor these systems with accuracy and care, responding promptly to any alerts or emergencies. This role also involves receiving and dispatching calls for service, particularly in emergency situations, and performing data entry using the department's automated records management system, Informant Technologies. In the event of an emergency, the Communications Specialist assists in activating the Dispatch Operations Command Center (DOCC) and the Joint Operations Command Center (JOCC). They are also responsible for utilizing the surveillance camera system to assist investigators and ensuring that all logs maintained by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) are accurately updated. The position requires a calm demeanor and the ability to make quick decisions in stressful situations, as well as strong verbal communication skills to effectively interact with a diverse population.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) certification preferred.
• Proficiency in the application of computer-based applications, MS Word, Excel, and records management systems.
• Must be capable of maintaining composure to effectively handle sudden emergency situations.
• 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.
• 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.
• Ability to effectively and efficiently communicate with a diverse population of constituencies with sensitivity, courtesy, enthusiasm, and tact.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a public safety communications role.
• Familiarity with emergency response protocols and procedures.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $40,500 - $45,500 per year.
• Full-time employment with potential for career advancement.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and impactful role within the university community.