Logo
George Mason University

Communications Officer

George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States, 22032

Save Job

Overview

Department:

Executive Administration Classification:

Emergency Coordinator 1 Job Category:

Classified Staff Job Type:

Full-Time Work Schedule:

Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk) Location:

Fairfax, VA Workplace Type:

On Site Required Sponsorship Eligibility:

Not eligible for visa sponsorship Pay Band:

03 Salary:

Salary commensurate with education and experience Criminal Background Check:

Yes Financial Background Check:

Yes Motor Vehicle Records Check:

Yes Works with Minors check:

Yes About the Department: The University Police Department’s primary purpose/objective/mission is to provide a safe and secure environment for all university employees, students, and guests. Embracing the principles of community policing, the department works collaboratively with academic and administrative units and individuals to pursue the university’s mission. The department delivers a comprehensive program in law enforcement to provide safety, security, and service for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth and the university policies. About the Position: The

Communications Officer

provides first responder services and performs a variety of communications and operational tasks in support of public safety, security and law enforcement operations. The role links those in need of assistance to those who render assistance. This position is Essential/Designated personnel and requires working a variety of schedules in a 24/7 configuration including nights, weekends, holidays, and during and following natural disasters and emergency situations. Responsibilities: Provides First Responder Care to the Public and other First Responders: Through call taking and radio dispatching, provide protection and preservation of life, property, evidence, and the environment. Triage calls, teletype, and other messages from the public and public safety departments for emergency response. Create records in the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and provide life-saving instructions. Answer radio transmissions and phone calls promptly and competently, provide law enforcement pre-arrival instructions, and coordinate responses with fire, medical, or mental health crisis response services. Triage and prioritize calls for service and tasks according to policies and procedures. Maintain familiarity with geography within jurisdiction and adjacent properties. Request emergency phone pings from cell phone carriers when life-threatening emergencies exist. Demonstrate advanced situational assessment, sound judgment, teamwork, and multitasking. Perform specialized tactical-communication dispatch, monitoring and responding to situations requiring it. Communicate effectively with people in distress and disseminate critical information efficiently. Monitors and Operates Emergency Communications Equipment: Receives and transmits radio messages using FCC-required codes and signals. Operate MCC-7500E radio console on regional network, in compliance with GMU and Fairfax County policies. Monitor and control GMUPD channels, regional interoperability channels, and PMARS. Follow outage and notification procedures and troubleshoot issues as an end-user. Speak clearly and maintain familiarity with incident protocols and procedures for relaying confidential information via radio. Operate multi-line phone system to address emergency and non-emergency calls. Operate CAD, RMS, and Mobile Data Terminal interfaces. Enter and retrieve data, maintain detailed records in CAD/RMS for each call, and document requests for anonymity in compliance with FOIA laws. Receive and document Crime Solvers Tips via email or phone. Inform patrol supervisors of tips when received. Monitor panic, burglar, door, fire, and BRL security alarm systems, CCTV, and headquarters access. Interact with systems such as RAVE Guardian, Mason Alert, and First Due. Dispatch response personnel per procedures. Accesses, Operates, and Monitors Databases: Ensure continuous 24/7 operation of NCIC/VCIN terminals in compliance with state and federal regulations. Keep logs of transactions and maintain custody of sensitive records. Ensure confidentiality and security of records. Maintain VCIN full access certification and complete required training. Enter time-sensitive records in NCIC/VCIN as required. Disseminate BOLO information to patrol per SOPs. Maintain certified LInX end-user access. Retrieve and disseminate LInX records per policy. Access university and student records with high confidentiality. Shred/destroy criminal justice information per policy. Complete mandated FERPA and Title IX training. Provides Public Services and Assistance to Community Members: Provide assistance with sound decision making and customer service. Maintain courtesy, impartiality, and confidentiality. Demonstrate empathy and professional conduct, offering resources and solutions while upholding department and university policies. Maintain professional relationships with university administration, University Life, and public safety partners to assist victims, witnesses, and individuals needing resources. Support crime victims with sensitive care. Identify crisis and mental health needs and coordinate resources (including 988) as appropriate. Follow Marcus Alert triage guidelines and coordinate response with 988/Crisis Center when required. Dispatch law enforcement to mental health/behavioral health responders when needed. Practices Personal Accountability and Follows Code of Conduct, Laws, Policies, and Procedures: Maintain knowledge of applicable laws, university and department policies. Follow FBI, VCIN, CJIS policies safeguarding confidential information. Adhere to department standards and code of conduct. Maintain professional appearance and certifications. Follow leave policies, submit leave requests with notice, and report to duty as scheduled. Obtain approval for overtime and report to work during emergencies as essential. Promote a positive, professional image and demonstrate integrity and accountability. Communicate with respect for the university and colleagues. Meet or exceed performance expectations and report concerns to management. Performs other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent; Experience operating computers (Windows and varied software); Experience working with the public; Knowledge of managing and prioritizing emergency communication incidents; Knowledge of basic public safety communication concepts; Working knowledge of resources in the Communications Center or at the university; Excellent judgment, interpersonal, problem-solving, and verbal/written communication skills; Excellent public relations/customer service skills; Ability to pass rigorous background check; Ability to pass a psychological examination; Ability to perform well under stress; Ability to complete dispatcher certification at an accredited academy; Ability to analyze emergency situations and determine actions; Ability to communicate clearly via radio; Ability to provide professional, caring service; Ability to communicate respectfully, respect diversity, and maintain confidentiality; Ability to work in teams or independently with limited supervision; Dependable work ethic, integrity, honesty, and accountability; Compliance with Virginia State Police/FBI/ CJIS policies; Must obtain/maintain NCIC/VCIN full access certification within 30 days of hire; Must obtain/maintain NCIC/VCIN operator certification per state/federal regulations; Maintain dispatcher certification per Virginia DCJS; Must possess an active, valid motor vehicle operator’s license that meets GMU vehicle policies and related requirements. Preferred Qualifications: Associate’s degree in related field; Public safety, emergency management, or emergency communications center experience preferred; Knowledge of law enforcement/public safety emergency communications; Public speaking skills; and Strong ability with varied computer software. Instructions to Applicants: For full consideration, apply for the

Communications Officer

at

https://jobs.gmu.edu/ . Complete and submit the online application with three professional references and a resume for review. Posting Open Date:

October 31, 2025 For Full Consideration, Apply by:

November 14, 2025 Open Until Filled:

Yes

#J-18808-Ljbffr