Dispatcher, Campus Safety

Widener University is currently seeking a full-time 1st Shift Dispatcher. This position works primarily indoors, averaging 40 hours per week, 8 hours per day, 8:00AM to 4:00PM. The position reports to the Dispatch Manager. Dispatchers safeguard the University community by expertly coordinating communications among safety personnel, monitoring dispatch systems, and responding to both emergency and non-emergency calls with professionalism and efficiency. Their role is critical in ensuring that every situation, whether urgent or routine, is managed swiftly, accurately, and with the wellbeing of the community.

The Dispatcher plays a vital role in safeguarding the University community by serving as the central hub for safety communications. This position requires coordinating and managing communications among campus safety personnel, monitoring dispatch systems to ensure timely and accurate information flow, and responding to emergency and non-emergency calls with professionalism, efficiency, and composure. This position is essential to maintaining the safety, security, and wellbeing of students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The Dispatcher will demonstrate strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure while supporting the University’s commitment to a safe and welcoming environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

• Serve as a designated Campus Security Authority (CSA) in compliance with the Clery Act.
• Receive, prioritize, and dispatch emergency and non-emergency calls for service.
• Gather accurate details during interactions to ensure timely and appropriate safety responses.
• Operate and manage CAD (computer-aided dispatch), video management, card access, alarm systems, and key control.
• Use two-way radios to dispatch personnel and coordinate responses effectively.
• Work closely with University departments and external agencies to coordinate incident response.
• Manage multiple responsibilities in both high-stress and routine situations.
• Troubleshoot minor issues with dispatch systems and related technology.
• Contact police, fire, or medical services when required.
• Participate in emergency drills and exercises to maintain operational readiness.

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Work flexible or additional shifts as needed to support department operations.
• Support the Office of Campus Safety during University athletic events, ceremonies, and special functions.
• Manage Campus1Card system functions and distribute parking permits.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs and align with the mission, values, and goals of the Office of Emergency Management/Campus Safety.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Prior experience in customer service or a security-related role.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage professionally with diverse populations.
• Proficiency in operating computers, two-way radios, and dispatch/security equipment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to tactfully and effectively communicate with the university community and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and tactful in challenging situations.
• Successful completion of background checks including PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse, and FBI clearance.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Public Safety, or related field; additional coursework or training in communications, law enforcement, or emergency response.
• Prior experience as a Dispatcher.
• Familiarity with Clery Act reporting requirements and procedures.
• Experience working in higher education or school-based environments.
• Background in law enforcement, military, campus or public safety.
• Familiarity with the local community and surrounding areas.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

• Demonstrate strong manual dexterity and precise coordination in operating computers, keyboards, mice, two-way radios, telephones, and other dispatch or security equipment with accuracy and efficiency.
• Ability to walk for extended periods and navigate stairs in various building environments.
• Capacity to patrol outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to stand or sit for long durations, both indoors and outdoors.
• Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 55 lbs.
• Willingness to work non-standard hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.

Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington.