We're Hiring!

Title: Communications Officer

VP Area: Campus Public Safety and Security

Department: Communication Center

Work Schedule: Varies

Telework Availability: On-campus Position

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Employee Classification: Regular full-time (staff 30+ hours)

Hours per week: 40

Months per year: 12

Fixed Term End Date (if applicable):

Job Purpose:

Join the Gonzaga University Team as a Security Communications Dispatch Officer

Gonzaga University is looking for a calm, dependable, and service-oriented individual to join our Campus Security & Public Safety team as a Security Communications Dispatch Officer. In this vital role, you’ll be the first point of contact during emergencies and day-to-day operations—supporting the safety of our campus community 24/7.

If you're passionate about helping others, thrive in high-pressure situations, and have a knack for clear communication and attention to detail, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a dynamic campus environment.

Be part of a team that values integrity, collaboration, and community, and help us ensure Gonzaga remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

Essential Functions:

Dispatch & Communications (75%)

• Receive and respond to emergency and non-emergency calls; prioritize and dispatch officers or refer to appropriate resources.

• Use radio protocols to communicate effectively during calls for service.

• Coordinate after-hours service requests for Plant Services and other departments.

• Monitor and respond to campus issues involving custodial, maintenance, IT, and grounds during nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Provide after-hours support for switchboard operations when needed.

• Notify on-call administrators and departments during emergencies or unusual circumstances.

• Facilitate direct radio communication with Spokane Police and Fire personnel as requested.

Security Systems Monitoring

• Monitor alarms (fire, burglar, panic, lab temperature, etc.) and manage building access via the Persona system, including lockdowns.

• Operate surveillance systems with over 600 cameras to assist with investigations and monitor campus activity.

• Export video footage for internal and external agencies as needed.

• Maintain dispatch records and logs using Omnigo software.

Technology & Support Tools

• Use T2 software to support Parking & Transportation operations.

• Track and manage lost & found items using Crowdfind.

Resource Liaison (20%)

• Coordinate services with external agencies (e.g., Safe Ride, Uber Health, Spokane PD/FD, Avista, etc.).

• Maintain emergency contact lists for staff, faculty, and students.

• Provide access to student health info and utilize internal systems (EMS, StarRez) as needed.

• Additional Duties as Assigned by the Department

Educational Requirement:

Vocational, Associates, or Technical Degree

Years of Related Experience Requirement:

1 year

In lieu of the educational qualifications, candidates may qualify with equivalent professional experience at a ratio of one year of experience for each year of required education. 

Certifications and/or Licensures:

Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to pass a background check.
• Previous experience in dispatch, security, or emergency services is preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, including in emergency or high-stress situations.
• Basic computer literacy, including proficiency in word processing and data entry.
• Availability to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Communications, Emergency Management, or a related field.
• Previous work experience in higher education.
• Proficiency with security and surveillance technologies, including video monitoring systems and card access control.
• Familiarity with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, radio dispatch systems, and records management software.
• Bilingual or multilingual proficiency.
• Knowledge of Clery Act reporting requirements and/or familiarity with campus safety policies and procedures.

Physical & On-Campus Requirements:

In-Office Presence - Ability to work on-site in typical office setting and participate in in-person meetings with colleagues: 5 days/week

Standing/Sitting - Ability to remain in a stationary position for a prolonged period: Daily (>75% of time)

Walking - Ability to move about on foot to accomplish tasks: Often (50%-75% of time)

Lifting/Carrying - Ability to move or transport objects up to a specified weight (e.g., 50 pounds): Rarely (1%-49% of time)

Attention to Detail - Ability to focus on detailed tasks for extended periods: Daily (>75% of time)

Problem-Solving - Ability to identify and resolve issues effectively: Daily (>75% of time)

The budgeted salary range that the University reasonably expects to offer for this position: $20 per hour

Pay Range:

Minimum Salary (Non-Exempt): $20.00

Midpoint Salary (Non-Exempt): $22.30

Maximum Salary (Non-Exempt): $24.63

Is this position eligible for relocation reimbursement or a signing bonus?: False