Police Communications Operator

Department

Compensation

General Description / Primary Purpose

The Police Communications Operator (PCO) provides critical non-sworn support services to law enforcement by ensuring the continuous, accurate, and secure operation of a Public Safety Communications Center. This role serves as a central point of contact for emergency and non-emergency communications, coordinating information between law enforcement officers, campus stakeholders, and external public safety agencies.

The position is responsible for operating and monitoring multiple communication, alarm, and information systems essential to officer safety, campus security, and effective law enforcement operations. The PCO plays a vital role during routine operations and emergency situations by receiving calls for service, dispatching resources, and maintaining situational awareness through real-time information management.

Job Functions

• Operate and monitor police radio base stations, telephone systems, computer aided dispatch software, recording devices, and University alerting systems.

• Receive, evaluate, prioritize, and dispatch emergency and non-emergency calls for service.

•  Operate FCIC/NCIC terminals to verify licenses, criminal history, and vehicle records.

•  Monitor fire alarm, burglar, and campus security systems and notify appropriate personnel.

•  Coordinate information with surrounding law enforcement agencies.

•  Support criminal and confidential investigations through accurate data handling.

• Operate campus camera systems.

•  Serve as Police Department receptionist and provide information and referrals.

•  Implement emergency and special procedures, including off-site duty during declared emergencies.

Marginal Functions

• Complete administrative documentation and logs.

• Perform related duties as assigned.

Supervision Received

• Works under regular supervision; routine duties are performed independently.

Department Requirements

• Clear verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.

•  Proficiency with computers and multi-system monitoring.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

• Ability to occasionally move objects of approximately 40 lbs. or less.

• Physical ability to respond during emergencies.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma and 1+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219. State certification on NCIC/FCIC computer systems are required.

Statement(s) of Understanding

This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.

The holder of this position is designated as a “Responsible Employee” pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University’s Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator

Equal Opportunity

The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.

Carnegie

UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University’s collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF’s mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.