Communications Officer I

The Communications Officer I performs skilled technical and administrative communications work within the Regent University Police Department Communication Center. This position is responsible for receiving, evaluating, and transmitting critical information via radio, telephone, and multiple computer-aided systems to support law enforcement and public safety operations. The Communications Officer I exercises independent judgment in processing inquiries, complaints, and requests for emergency and non-emergency assistance, determining appropriate actions in accordance with training, departmental policies, legal mandates, and established procedures. By maintaining constant situational awareness, the Communications Officer I safeguards life, property, and security across the Regent University and Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) campuses. The role contributes to a comprehensive and integrated public safety program through effective communication, coordination, and collaboration with the campus community as well as local, state, and federal public safety partners.

Work Location: Virginia Beach, VA 

Essential duties:

Emergency Call Handling

• Receive and process emergency and non-emergency requests via the telephone system and Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, demonstrating proficient knowledge of telephony and CAD operations.
• Determine the appropriate response by assessing call priority, resource availability, and type/number of personnel needed. Coordinate response of additional public safety agencies (e.g., fire/rescue) as required to ensure efficient and timely assistance.

NCIC/VCIN Operations

• Monitor and process messages through the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and Hampton Roads Law Enforcement Information Exchange (LInX).
• Perform inquiries, operate, and validate data regarding wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registrations, and stolen vehicles, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.

Critical Incident Coordination

• Monitor and coordinate departmental and inter-agency responses to critical incidents, maintaining effective communication between Campus Police officers in the field, university personnel, and outside emergency/law enforcement agencies.

Equipment and System Operations

• Operate multiple communications and security systems, including radios, CAD, telephones, alarm monitoring systems, central station alarm systems, and video surveillance equipment.
• Conduct routine operational tests on communications and alarm systems, promptly reporting malfunctions.

Radio Frequency Monitoring

• Monitor multiple radio frequencies, including those used by local police, fire, EMS, facilities services, and the Founders Inn, to maintain awareness of developing situations and support coordinated responses.

Officer Safety and Information Management

• Solicit, receive, and relay sensitive or classified information to field units, coordinating responses and updating information in real time to enhance officer safety and situational awareness.

Recordkeeping and Documentation

• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete records of all communications, dispatch activities, and database transactions in compliance with departmental policies, CJIS standards, and records retention requirements. 

Community Service and Engagement

• Provide professional, courteous, and empathetic service to all members of the Regent/CBN community, promoting safety, trust, and a spirit of partnership.

Training and Development

• Participate in mandatory training, certifications, and continuing education to maintain proficiency in communications operations, emergency protocols, and applicable legal standards.

Emergency Preparedness and Critical Incident Management

• Direct communications response during critical incidents, disasters, and large-scale emergencies by ensuring accurate and timely information flow to support incident command and operational continuity.
• Coordinate mutual aid communications with surrounding law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies.
• Behavioral Intervention and Campus Safety Coordination – Receive and evaluate notifications and reports from the Regent University Behavioral Intervention Team (RUBIT), Maxient, and other campus reporting systems. Coordinate with the department’s designated point of contact to assist in triaging concerns, developing timely response notifications, and recommending appropriate invest