Job Description
Under direct supervision from the Information Technology Director, engages in the construction, installation, maintenance, repair and modification of the City of Cottonwood radio and telecommunication system including dispatch equipment. Assists with City of Cottonwood communications infrastructure needs including, but not limited to, conducting research, construction, installation, maintenance, repair, and modification of all aspects of our radio and telecommunications systems.
CLASSIFICATION: This is a non-exempt, full-time, classified position with full benefits.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this classification.
TASKS:
· Assumes a high level of responsibility in maintaining the operation of city owned, radio and telecommunication backbone system to include research, design, advisement, planning, construction, installation, maintenance, repair and the necessary modifications required to maintain optimum performance. This includes but is not limited to point-to-point microwave, two-way radio (digital and analog), antennas/coaxial antenna systems, multiplexers, voters, site power systems (DC, AC, and solar), proper grounding techniques, proper RF and AC surge suppression, and RF filtering.
· Engages in and assumes a high level of responsibility in the planning, design, implementation, and support of City, public safety, and 911 dispatch centers. This includes but is not limited to radio dispatch consoles (Zetron), basic network configuration and routing, limited computer desktop support, FCC frequency licensing/management, fire station alerting solutions (2 tone, 5 tone pagers, digital, PLC controllers), voters, receivers, repeaters.
· Analyzes electronic problems and makes repairs at both system and component levels.
· Provides preventive maintenance of communications equipment and systems.
· Operates and maintains digital and analog electronic test equipment.
· Installs and repairs antennas and wiring on communications towers, vehicles, and buildings.
· Interprets technical diagrams and instructions; prepares systems and equipment documentation; maintains service records and prepares related reports.
· Assists in accurate inventory of District communications assets and prepares related reports.
· Assists in replacement schedules and associated budgets.
· Supports, implements, and maintains equipment including but not limited to mobile and portable radios (variety of manufacturers and models), mobile data terminals, cellular modems, vehicle headsets and handsets, radio pagers, and tablets.
· As needed, meets with city staff to determine user needs; assists with technical requirements and plan for new public safety and city communications technology.
· Responds to user request of assistance or service on radio equipment.
· Maintain positive working relationships with City employees, subscriber members, agencies and partners.
· Attend meetings and training.
· Prepare, manage, store and locate written records of equipment.
· Required to maintain a minimum of “meets standards” on evaluations.
· May be required to be placed on “on-call” status.
· Required to drive and travel to various site locations.
· Performs various services at and on communications tower sites including, but not limited to, site and equipment maintenance, system use and radio frequency compatibility to avoid interference problems.
· Actively works to inspire a vibrant community through departmental work.
· Perform other duties/projects as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
· Extensive knowledge of modern radio systems including the City of Cottonwood public safety communication system and all of the support equipment relating to said systems operability.
· Knowledge and experience with dispatch console equipment, two-way radio equipment, microwave equipment, power supply and UPS equipment.
· Knowledge of FCC licensing requirement.
· Knowledge of public safety console, base station, repeater, mobile radio, portable radio, station alerting and paging system equipment maintenance.
· Knowledge of software and hardware manuals used in installation and maintenance of modern radio systems.
· Knowledge of digital and analog electronic test equipment.
· Knowledge and skill in troubleshooting technical/operational radio/communications problems and Radio Frequency (RF) problems and repairing/solving/mitigating identified issues.
· Knowledge of new and emerging trends in technology and wireless communication.
· Skill in reading, understanding and interpreting technical manuals.
· Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with city staff, equipment users, and vendors.
· Skill in assessing situations and acting in accordance with the particular level of urgency.
· Skill in written communications for administrative and technical purposes.
· Skill in oral communication in one-on-one and group situations.
· Skill in installing and repairing antennas and wiring on communications towers, vehicles and buildings.
· Skill in developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Work involved in this classification may include heavy lifting and potential exposure to hazardous conditions including climbing and performing work on communications towers, working in confined spaces, working in hazardous atmospheres and possible exposure to hazardous material including battery acid, hazardous fumes, etc. Physical, hearing, speaking and visual abilities must be sufficient to effectively and safely perform required duties.
SECURITY:
· Must be able to obtain DPS Level A Terminal Operator Certification (TOC).
· Must pass post-offer, pre-employment background check equivalent to that performed on police officers. The background process includes passing a polygraph exam. Felony convictions or convictions of an offense that would result in a felony if committed in Arizona result in a failed background check and deem the candidate ineligible for the position.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
· High School diploma or equivalent or any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities.
· Minimum of 5 years full-time in the repair and maintenance of two-way and microwave radios (public safety radio system preferred).
· Must possess a valid Arizona Driver License in good standing or obtain one within 60 days of employment.
· Completion of the following technical certifications within the first year of employment:
o FCC General Radiotelephone Operator's License (GROL).
o APCO Radio Technician Certificate or CET Journeyman Certificate with a Communications endorsement, ETA General Communications Technician Level 2, or equivalent.
· Bachelor’s Degree is highly desirable.
· Certification for FCC General Radiotelephone Operator’s License (GROL)
· Certification for APCO Radio Technician
· Certification for ETA General Communications Technician Level 2
· Working knowledge of Zetron systems
· Working knowledge of Carlson/Daniels radio equipment
· Working knowledge of Motorola portable and mobile radio equipment
· Working knowledge of SCADA systems
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
· Must live within 30 minutes travel time of Cottonwood Public Safety Communication Center.
May be required to work other than normal business hours, including weekends and holidays.
