Radio Communications Coordinator

Under general administrative direction, the Radio Communications Coordinator (Telecommunications Coordinator) directs functional operation of mission-critical communications systems; addresses technical issues as related to mission-critical radio communication infrastructure i.e., radio system, fire alerting, microwave network, etc.; directs planning and coordination of systems maintenance and repair with vendors and end-users; creates codeplugs, programs, and upgrades subscriber two-way radios, repeaters, etc. Activates and mobilizes emergency backup systems and communications trailer, and provides technical support and responses to public safety departments during emergencies.

This job classification will be governed by the Personnel Rules, as it is not represented by a collective bargaining unit. PLEASE NOTE:

This position will remain open until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.

This job classification is in Management Category III for benefits purposes, which includes Six (6) additional Management Vacation Days and a Vehicle Allowance of $250/month.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

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Essential functions are the basic job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning essential duties not listed herein if such duties relate to the position.

• Provides technical guidance to developers with regards to ensuring two-way communications compliance within structures
  
• Maintains technical and support aspects for all mission-critical and ancillary systems including but not limited to; radio systems, microwave network, fire alerting system and coordinates contractor maintenance activities
  
• Troubleshoots and performs first echelon level service on subscriber radios and components
  
• Assists in long range planning of telecommunications and electronic systems requirements
  
• Prepares technical specifications for proposals
  
• Develops radio templates and codeplugs utilizing Customer Programming Software (CPS)
  
• Maintains the radio fleet radio management servers
  
• Oversees and assists in maintaining all radio system software records such as; programming templates, radio programs, identification numbers, assignments, aliases, talk group assignments, talk group registers, inventory, records and cross reference lists
  
• Programs backbone system equipment including system controller and interface management system for a trunked radio and conventional repeater communication systems
  
• Coordinates with system users on activities involving repair, maintenance and regional public safety activities
  
• Assists and supports departments in implementing the City�s Telecommunication Ordinance overseeing the applications for use of the City�s right-of-way, establishing an equitable cost, and negotiating preferable routes
  
• Assists and supports departments in reviewing new development projects within the City which may interfere with the City�s radio system and assists in negotiating leases for towers located on City�s right-of-way
  
• Monitors radio and alerting systems and initiates immediate corrective action
  
• Reviews new development programs submitted to the City for approval to determine which may reduce radio system coverage to below acceptable levels; conducts fade margin studies to determine the effect of any system impacts
  
• Provides system usage reports
  
• Keeps schedule of routine preventive maintenance on various equipment and tower sites
  
• Serves as liaison with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for licenses and enforcement actions; maintains all required FCC license records; prepares and submits all required FCC reports; assures proper posting of FCC licenses
  
• Serves as liaison with Local and Federal Law Enforcement agencies to process interoperability agreements and facilitates programming of their radios onto City radio systems
  
• Monitors the County�s Change Management Request Process (CMR) for communications and dispatching issues
  
• Provides after hours support to public safety departments during emergencies
  
• Performs related work as required
  

JOB REQUIREMENTS, PREFERENCES & WORK ENVIRONMENT

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• Bachelor's Degree in Radio Communications, Electronics, Engineering, Information Systems, Information Technology, Telecommunications, or a related field.
  
• Three (3) or more years of experience in a radio communications infrastructure environment along with experience utilizing radio programming software. Additional qualifying experience in a job related field, may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required education.
  
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Communications Unit Technician (COMT) or Communication Unit Leader (COML) preferred.
  
• Possess or be able to obtain a valid State of Florida driver�s license within 30 days of hire.
  
• This position will require on call, holiday, night and/or weekend work.
  

Special Requirements:

• An in-depth pre-employment background check including a limited-scope polygraph will be conducted as part of the selection process as this position is deemed security-sensitive.
  

As public servants, employees may be required to work immediately before, during, and/or after an emergency. All employees must be available and able to work assigned shifts as determined by their Department Heads.

PHYSICAL STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The position involves heavy physical demands, such as exerting up to 100 lbs. of force occasionally (with assistance), and/or up to 50 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force constantly to move objects. Ability to lift, carry, climb, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, walk, push, pull, grasp, stand and access heights or areas where limited space is available. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

HOW TO APPLY & SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

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Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; interview; employment record, background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position.

The City of Fort Lauderdale is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, inclusive employer and a Drug Free Workplace. The City of Fort Lauderdale does not discriminate based on age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.

Veterans' preference per Florida law. If claiming Veteran's Preference, candidates must attach a DD214 Member 4 form, and the City of Fort Lauderdale's veteran's preference claim form (J-204) to the online application.

The City of Fort Lauderdale offers a comprehensive benefits package to all regular full-time employees including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and short-term disability insurance.

Click here for an overview of employment information including our benefits package.