Position Description:
The Valparaiso University Police Department (VUPD) 911/Dispatcher receives incoming emergency and non-emergency calls, operates radio and computer systems, monitors campus safety alarms (Fire/Break-in alarms), and dispatches police and emergency services. Operating 24/7/365 out of the VUPD 911 Center at 813 LaPorte Ave, dispatchers support community policing, field safety, and regional communication networks. After-hours campus operator and maintenance dispatcher.
Position Overview
- Job Title: VUPD 911 Dispatcher / Public Safety Communications Operator
- Department: Valparaiso University Police Department
- Location: 813 LaPorte Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383
- Employment Type: Full-Time / Shift Work (24/7 rotation, including holidays and weekends)
Major Responsibilities:
- Emergency Communications: Answer incoming 911 emergency lines, routine calls, campus "Blue Light" emergency phones, and building call boxes.
- Non-Emergency Communication: During after hours, dispatch service calls for Facility Management and university operator.
- Resource Dispatching: Relay critical radio and telephone data to dispatch VUPD officers, local law enforcement, or local fire and EMS units.
- Campus Safety Monitoring: Actively track campus alarm circuits, building access systems, and security surveillance cameras.
- App Integration: Monitor and process safety requests, location sharing, and emergency alerts submitted via the VALPO SAFE mobile app.
- Mass Notification: Issue campus safety alerts and emergency notifications.
- Information Retrieval: Access state and federal law enforcement databases to run vehicle registrations, warrants, and background checks for field personnel.
- Clerical Duties: Maintain the electronic dispatch log, input facilities work orders, and route walk-in victims or visitors appropriately.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Communication: Clear speaking voice and active listening skills.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone networks, and radio equipment.
- Multitasking: Skill to extract accurate data from frantic callers while typing and dispatching units simultaneously.
- Certifications: Ability to obtain and maintain IDACS (Indiana Data and Communications System) certification.
- Background Clearance: Must clear a thorough criminal background check, and fingerprinting.
Other Qualifications:
Core Value Alignment
Candidates must uphold the VUPD Core Values in every interaction:
- Integrity: Honest, truthful, and trustworthy conduct both on and off duty
- Respect: Compassionate, mindful service that ensures fair, impartial, and unbiased policing while embracing diversity.
- Service: Strong partnerships with students, faculty, and staff that prioritize community safety and foster a secure campus culture.
- Accountability: Full ownership of law enforcement duties, dedication to upholding professional standards, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.
To be considered for this position, you must upload:
Cover letter
Resume
List of 3 professional references
Answer all application questions
Please address the cover letter to:
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, Indiana
