Communications Specialist (Network/Telecom Analyst II)

This position coordinates the deployment and configuration of handheld communications radios, body worn cameras, in-car video, tasers, drones, and accessories for sworn agency personnel, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices. Works closely with agency sworn personnel to ensure effective implementation of mobile surveillance camera and radio communications programs, manage user access and permissions, oversee data storage and retention policies, and provide ongoing support and training to users. Performs daily activities of radio operations and customer service for radio (RF), wireless, push-to-talk and other equipment supported by the agency.

Serves as the primary technical lead to support coverage requirements, devices, installation, and maintenance functions. Maintains a safe work environment. Interact regularly with the Radio Services Shop to ensure agency needs are met. Manages repair of damaged or inoperative equipment by staff, outside vendors and/or contractors. Participates in projects for transition to and provides hands on support for implementing push-to-talk technologies on purpose built and smart phone devices. Using appropriate tools, RF and electronic test equipment and system software to install, program, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain wireless communications systems including broadband push to talk devices, two-way radio, ancillary audio, electrical and wireless equipment. Ensures staff are properly trained in the use of all communication devices.

Conducts analysis and troubleshooting of complex public safety digital communication systems that utilize a variety of radio frequency (RF) devices and associated equipment. Keeps track of associated assets and utilizes the radio asset management system and services database. Provides subject matter expertise on wireless and public safety broadband. Orders necessary parts, supplies, tools, and test equipment required to maintain county communications equipment within manufacturer s operating specifications. Coordinates billing issues with DIT Fiscal and procurement staff. Ensures all required contracts are renewed on a timely basis. Conducts administrative duties for personnel and financial management. Receives agency vehicles and inspect and repair radio/CAD/IVC as needed. Works collaboratively with the electronic security officer and act as back-up as needed.

(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position job description.)

• Provides support functions for assigned agencies;
• Facilitates the installation of cabling and services;
• Reviews, evaluates, and approves work order requests;
• Analyzes and prioritizes agency requirements and designs, implements, and programs software changes accordingly;
• Responds to customer service requests;
• Evaluates systems problems, performs diagnostics on suspected problems, and recommends or implements solutions;
• Assists the help desk in problem determination and solution;
• Oversees network/telecommunications projects related to new construction, agency relocations, and similar actions;
• Coordinates activities with planners, engineers, vendors, and agency management;
• Reviews time frames and cost estimates of requirements and alternatives;
• Schedules vendors and appropriate staff;
• Evaluates projects for cost effectiveness and current and future usability;
• Assists in the planning of distributed local area networks;
• Administers local area networks;
• Plans and implements system security;
• Installs, configures;
• Establishes backup and recovery procedures;
• Installs, repairs, configures, maintains, troubleshoots, and upgrades PC's, LANs, and related equipment and software;
• Performs site inspections to ensure adequate cabling, power and facilities;
• Evaluates capacity, availability, and performance of existing facilities;
• Evaluates the need for and implements migration from one network operating system to another.
• Performs day-to-day network administration;
• Installs and configures PC's and component parts;
• Configures for network operation and proper communication;
• Installs software;
• Maintains system files, databases, and related programs;
• Maintains network security;
• Assures proper operation and maintenance of hardware and software;
• Troubleshoots problems;
• Develops and provides training for users;
• Assesses agency business needs and recommends solutions;
• Maintains system records and documentation;
• Develops, schedules, and provides training for users;
• Provides technical assistance and resources to other staff as needed.

(The knowledge, skills and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)

• Knowledge of data and voice communications protocol and industry standards such as internet, intranet, internet security, frame relay, and data network;
• Knowledge of communications network management and router configuration;
• Knowledge of a variety of hardware and software, cabling, power requirements, ancillary equipment, etc. related to network operations and telecommunications systems;
• Ability to plan, schedule, and coordinate special projects and assignments;
• Ability to evaluate and make recommendations on different applications software packages;
• Ability to oversee, monitor, and maintain network and telecommunications operations;
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Ability to assist users in solving systems problems;
• Ability to translate technical terminology into terms understood by management and employees;
• Ability to develop and provide training;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective business relationships.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:
(Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")
Possession of an associate degree in computer science, electrical engineering, electronics, or a related field; plus, three years of network and/or telecommunications experience; or a bachelor's degree in such fields; plus, one year of experience in network or telecommunications system design, analysis, installation, and troubleshooting.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least six years of hands-on experience in repair and alignment of conventional and
  P25 trunked mobile and portable radios, three years of hands-on experience installing radio, wireless, data-related equipment in public safety and fleet vehicles, and one-year experience installing broadband vehicular kits and accessories.
• Experience using an asset management and service database system.
• Working knowledge of the principles, practices, terminology and Land Mobile Radio (LMR) system.
• Working knowledge of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) laws, rules, and regulations and licensing, and other federal directives related to radio and wireless communications systems and equipment for public safety and broadband.
• Written and oral communications skills and demonstrated project management skills

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:

• Driver's License (required)
• Network+ Certification
• Security+ Certification