Operations and Emergency Response Dispatcher

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Operations and Emergency Response Dispatcher manages critical communication and dispatch operations at SURF, ensuring timely response to routine operations and emergency situations. This role facilitates information flow, monitors safety systems, and coordinates emergency responses with internal teams and external agencies.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

The following reflects SDSTA’s definition of essential functions for this position and does not restrict other tasks that may be assigned. SDSTA retains the right to re-evaluate the duties of the position when considering a reasonable accommodation or at other appropriate times. The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Receive, prioritize, and document emergency and non-emergency calls for assistance, including but not limited to medical, fire, and security incidents.
• Dispatch appropriate subject matter experts, including ERT, engineering personnel, security personnel, local fire crews, etc.
• Provide clear and concise information to personnel.
• Monitor alarm systems, security systems, Trip Action Plans (TAP), work permits, underground tracking technologies, etc. and communicate needs as appropriate.
• Identify and assess potential safety or security risks using monitoring tools and alert appropriate personnel as needed.
• Continuously monitor weather conditions using weather stations, forecasting tools, and systems and communicate weather updates to teams and initiate precautionary or emergency actions as required.
• Implement and communicate response actions based on the site-specific Trigger-Action Response Plan (TARP) for various scenarios.
• Coordinate multi-agency responses, including local law enforcement, fire departments, and medical services as needed.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of incidents, including time logs, communication notes, and response actions taken.
• Prepare post-incident reports for review by management and safety teams.
• Utilize radio, telephone, and other communication devices to ensure constant connectivity with underground and surface operations.
• Assist in conducting emergency drills and training exercises to ensure readiness.
• Enforce and follow all safety and security protocols established by the SDSTA.
• Operate specialized dispatch software.
• Troubleshoot and report malfunctions of communication or monitoring equipment.
• Maintain proficiency in emergency response procedures and technologies.
• Participate in regular training sessions and certifications related to emergency dispatching and safety protocols as required.
• Provide guidance and support to individuals in distress until help arrives.
• Receive, assess, and document emergency/non-emergency calls (medical, fire, security).
• Dispatch appropriate personnel (ERT, engineering, security, fire, medical responders).
• Monitor alarm/security systems, work permits, and underground tracking.
• Monitor safety risks and notify the necessary personnel.
• Track weather conditions and issue updates, initiating precautionary actions when needed.

Other Essential Functions

• Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Courses in dispatch, communication, or security-related field is recommended.

Certifications and Licenses

• Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certification is recommended or obtainable within the first year of employment.
• Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification is recommended or obtainable within the first year of employment.
• Incident Command System (ICS) 100, 200, and 700 are recommended or obtainable within the first year of employment.

Experience

• Prior experience in emergency dispatch, security operations, or communications preferred.

Competencies, Knowledge and Skills

• Communication—Communicates effectively and clearly with a wide range of audiences in both written and oral form.
• Customer Service–Interacts professionally and courteously with visitors and addresses their needs in a pleasant and efficient manner.
• Initiative–Ability to persist despite difficult conditions and makes suggestions for improvements.
• Organization–Prioritizes tasks, manages time, keeps order and coordinates a variety of activities.
• Safety–Willing to accept and enforce strict security and safety practices.
• Situational Awareness–Ability to assess situations, evaluate options and choose the most appropriate course of action.
• Strong knowledge of public safety protocols.
• Advanced computer proficiency.

Working Conditions

The working conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.

• This position may require working in both surface and underground environments at depths up to 5000 feet, which may include exposure to extreme conditions, confined spaces, and varying temperatures.
• In the office it is well-lit with a combination of natural and artificial lighting to ensure a comfortable working environment.
• The office maintains a controlled temperature environment, with heating and air conditioning systems to ensure comfort throughout the year.
• Ergonomic office furniture and equipment are provided to support employee health and wellbeing.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet while in the office, or moderately loud when on the surface or underground, and may require hearing protection.
• The company is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations.
• Employees are expected to comply with SDSTA’s ESH Manual.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to Safety Standards are mandatory.
• Act in accordance with SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism and Being a Team Player.

Mental and Physical Demands

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Remain calm and collected during high-stress situations to ensure clear communication, decision making, and response coordination.
• High level of alertness to maintain compliance with Safety Standards, especially in high-risk environments involving heavy equipment, electricity, or gas lines.
• Ability to follow Safety Standards and processes.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
• Capacity to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to operate fixed and mobile equipment.
• Good hand-eye coordination.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods

Job Information

Supervisory Duties: No

Direct Reports: N/A.

Work Arrangements: On-Site

Hours: 7-on 7-off; 12.5hrs shifts

Travel Required: 0%

Mission/Vision/Core Values

Mission: We advance world-class science and inspire learning across generations.

Vision: The world’s preferred location for underground science and education.

Core Values:

• Safety Focused: We do not compromise safety or endanger the environment.
• Care for Others: We embrace and honor the fundamental value and dignity of all individuals. We listen knowing everyone has something to offer and to learn.
• Professional: What we do is important to our community and the world. We sweat the details to achieve big things. Our behavior and ethics exemplify our best.
• Team Players: We provide unmatched service. We are respectful and deliver for our customers and partners. We build trust not barriers.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) is an equal opportunity employer committed to the development of a diverse workforce. We foster a work community where every individual feels welcomed, valued, respected and heard and discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or political affiliation is prohibited.