Communication Operator

Posting Details

Position Information

Position Title Communication Operator Division VP and Chief Operating Officer Department TSU Police Dept Number of hours per week 40 Days to be worked Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Months per year Fiscal (12 months) If modified, list months Job Type Full-Time Campus Avon Williams / Main Campus If other location, please indicate Position Number 063330 Advertised Salary $38,480 - $42,640 Pay Basis Semi-Monthly Job Description

Tennessee State University Police Department invites applicants for the role of Communication Operator.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Operate a multi-line telephone console system, alerting system, and TDD system for the deaf and hearing-impaired.
• Translate information to the appropriate codes.
• Determine and assign the level of priority of the call and enter the data into a computer-aided dispatch system for radio dispatch purposes.
• Perform emergency medical dispatch and crisis intervention services.
• Ask vital questions and provide pre-arrival instructions for emergency medical calls.
• Monitor and operate a digital radio console and computer equipment.
• Receive and respond to a variety of emergency and non-emergency services and complaints.
• Ask questions to interpret, analyze, and anticipate the caller's situation to resolve problems, provide information, dispatch emergency services, or refer callers to other agencies or departments.
• Dispatch and coordinate the responses of public safety agencies.
• Identify the appropriate number and type of equipment or apparatus to dispatch.
• Enters and modifies information into local, state, and national computer databases.
• Monitor and respond to a variety of technical systems and alarms.
• Monitor and retrieve video feed coming into the dispatch area, comprised of multiple screens and three (3) surveillance systems (Pelco, MoBotix, & Avigilon)
• Testify in criminal or civil court as to the authenticity of archived data and recordings concerning actions taken during the call-taking/dispatching evolution.
• Ability to work rotating shifts (evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays), be available to work extended shifts, and be subject to emergency callout(s). Must have a telephone line for contact and availability.
• Must reach with hands and arms and talk and hear, with approximately 90% of duties performed in a seated position observing several computer display screens for long, uninterrupted periods of time. There is a limited opportunity for physical movement.
• Continuously wear a communications headset that will cover one ear or fit within the ear canal of one ear and be able to hear and understand other outside sound sources not coming to the earpiece.
• Be able to work effectively in a disciplined environment with close supervision and carry out lawful orders according to policies, regardless of personal agreement.
• Continually demonstrate a high level of mental stability and professionalism.
• Maintain a positive customer service attitude at all times with the public, user agency members, university staff, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Assist other dispatchers as necessary and when not occupied with primary duties or if occupied with duties of lower priority.
• Be dependable and report for work on a consistent and predictable basis.
• Follow the chain of command per agency policy.
• Perform additional duties as directed.

CERTIFICATIONS:

Become NCIC certified and successfully complete a recognized course in Emergency Communications Operations

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of department policies and procedures related to emergency communications and disaster and special response plans.
• Knowledge of providing excellent customer service.
• Knowledge of telecommunications systems, which may include transmission, broadcasting, and switching systems, and computerized databases, including teletype, fax, and scanning operations and procedures.
• Understanding of basic dispatch codes, as well as standard abbreviations and industry terminology commonly used by law enforcement agencies.
• Understanding of jurisdictional boundaries, as well as thoroughfares, landmarks, and buildings within the jurisdiction.
• The ability to develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with fellow employees, representatives from other departments, and supervisors.
• The ability to use logic and reasoning to reach conclusions and approaches to problems.
• The ability to use judgment and decision-making skills to evaluate situations, establish priorities, and resolve matters.
• The ability to think quickly.
• The ability to work under stressful situations.
• The ability to actively listen and communicate effectively through clear speech and hearing.
• The ability to follow instructions.
• The ability to write clearly and spell correctly.
• The ability to type and make data entries.
• The ability to establish priorities and pass on information as needed.
• Able to accept criticism objectively and constructively.
• Remains open to different ideas and new things; adapts to changes in the work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Not have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to any felony charge or to any violation of any federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling, liquor or controlled substances and not have been released or discharged under any other than honorable discharge from any of the armed forces of the United States.
• Be of good moral character as determined by a thorough background investigation conducted by the employing agency.
• Graduation from a standard high school or possession of equivalency.
• Possession of a valid Tennessee operator's license as issued by the Department of Safety.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a criminal background check as mandated by Tennessee State University.

Official transcripts for positions which require a post-secondary undergraduate degree, advanced degree and/or certification must be presented upon hire.

An unofficial transcript may be attached in the "Transcript" section.

You will be required to provide names and contact information for three references during your application to the posting. If you are the recommended candidate for the position, our online hiring system will automatically generate solicitation for these letters using contact information you provided.

Open Date 07/17/2026 Close Date 07/31/2026 Job Category Technical Requisition Number Benefits

Tennessee State University offers eligible employees a competitive benefits package that includes annual leave (vacation), sick leave, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, flexible benefits plans and more.

Quick Link https://jobs.tnstate.edu/postings/10928

Reference Letter

References

Minimum References Required 2 Recommendation Deadline

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• CV/Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

• Transcript 1
• Other