Communications Technician II
BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION:
The Communications Technicians maintains, inventories, and cares for all portable and mobile radio devices, VOIP/telephony systems, station dispatch alerting systems, station audiovisual classrooms and conference room technology. This involves programming and supporting portable radios and accessories, installing mobile radios and modems in vehicles, and installing mobile devices and mounts. Assists the Logistics Division when new apparatus arrives to ensure they are compatible with existing infrastructure.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
This position is under the direct supervision of the Technology Division IT Manager.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
None
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following list describes several of the essential functions of this position. This list may be supplemented as necessary:
- Assists with and directs the care, maintenance, and inventory of portable and mobile radios used by field personnel during responses.
- Assists with and directs the care, maintenance, and inventory of the mobile data terminals field personnel use during responses.
- Works with other Technology Division members on projects as assigned.
- Works to assist the network engineer in maintaining, installing, and updating hardware within the apparatus.
- Works with VECC Dispatch, Wildland, and other State Agencies using analog and digital radios. (800 MHz/VHF)
- Supports and upgrades Station alerting for all UFA Fire Stations.
- Performs repairs on UFA radio equipment.
- Completes modem installation and programming for all UFA apparatus.
- Completes installation and programming of all Firecom headsets.
- Provides direct support for all Emergency Operations Center-related communications equipment, including video teleconference systems, base and portable radio equipment, satellite backup systems, and the Emergency Alert System
- Works closely with the UFA Communications group with apparatus modems and other similar duties.
- Participates in Service Management tickets.
- Performs other duties of a similar nature or level
TYPICAL DECISIONS:
Incumbents work under the direction of the IT Manager and will set their priorities based on this direction, while relying on demonstrated experience and in-depth knowledge of communications, VOIP/telephony, UFA policies and procedures and customary business practices. Decisions may be related to equipment management and inventory to support Operations, administration of records systems, and records management.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
- Motorola mobiles and portable radios
- Bendix King mobile and portable radios
- Harris P25 radio system and Analog radio system
- Point to Point Microwave Systems, complex antenna systems,
- General IPv4 and IPv6 networking troubleshooting.
- General use of computers and basic business software programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and general office equipment, including copiers, printers, fax machines, and scanners.
Skills in:
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Instructing and providing training effectively
- Motivating, communicating with, and instructing/training others, using both technical and non-technical language to explain complex subjects and processes
- Utilizing public relations techniques in responding to inquiries and complaints
Ability to:
- Meet and follow through with time schedules and deadlines
- Perform effectively as a member of the Technology Division team and attain measurable results with little direct supervision
- Utilize various software management systems
- Create documentation by contributing to the Technology Divisions RunBook and Solutions.
- Think conceptually, observe and evaluate trends, analyze data, draw logical conclusions, and make sound decisions and recommendations.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Two (2) years of work experience in communication systems maintenance or related activities Some of the work experience must have included working with Motorola two-way radio equipment.
- A valid State of Utah Driver's License.
- Preference may be given to candidates with an applicable FCC, APCO, or equivalent Communications Technician Certification.
Qualifications below must be completed after selection if not obtained prior to:
- Complete IS-100, IS-200, Comm-T, and Comm-L courses as availability permits.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
- General I.T. experience or certifications and/or experience with information technology systems.
- General Communications (mobile and portable radio) experience or certification and/or experience.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed at UFA Stations and Logistics warehouse during routine office hours, Monday through Friday. Occasional travel may be required. This position will participate in the on-duty roster after completion of appropriate training and/or certifications. Work activities vary widely, including meeting attendance, field and classroom training, and driving. Work may include responding to emergencies to assist and/or observe performance.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each of the essential job functions satisfactorily. This position involves periods of prolonged sitting and use of computer equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This position requires the physical and mental capabilities to read information printed on paper and displayed on computer monitors, hear, speak, and communicate verbally using the English language, cognitive thinking and mathematical calculation capabilities, and manual dexterity to manipulate standard office equipment, papers, files, and records. This position requires driving and the ability to lift and carry radio equipment, working inside vehicles and apparatuses for installation, and training equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Position is classified as FLSA Non-exempt and eligible for overtime.
Position is considered a Category A under the Staff Vehicle Assignment and Use Policy.
Position is considered a Category B under the Mobile Phones Policy (Employee can also elect to be assigned a mobile phone or stipend based on policy)
Position may participate in after-hours On-Duty roster after appropriate training and/or certifications.