Definition of Class

• This position reports to the onsite IT Manager and the Director of Information Technology. It is an advanced level technical position. Day to day operations require considerable independent action, initiative and judgment. Most duties are performed independently and involve a wide range of mechanical expertise, technical skills and abilities. General direction and guidance are received from the onsite IT Manger and Department of Public Safety. This position is subject to being on call 24/7/365 in case of emergencies, including holidays.

Nature of Work

• The Communication Administrator’s role is to provide technical, network and system administration of the Erie County UHF P25 Trunked Radio System and analog resources that provides integrated radio communications for all Fire, Law Enforcement and Emergency Medical Services in Erie County.
• This position has direct contact with first responder departments to provide maintenance and technical support to the county radio system, microwave network, telephone systems, and other electronic and monitoring equipment.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Installs, programs, tests, repairs, and maintains analog and P25 Land Mobile Radio two-way radios and accessory equipment.
• Monitor and maintain physical infrastructure of radio system.
• Monitor and maintain IP/MPLS microwave system.
• Inspect, test, and maintain telephone lines, circuits, trunks, and network cabling, including fiber connections.
• Configure, test, maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot end user telecommunications hardware, telephony devices, and voice/data hardware products.
• Monitor system performance and run reports.
• Working knowledge of Windows computers and TCP/IP concepts.
• Will operate a County owned vehicle and travel throughout the County on a routine basis.
• Maintain system documentation.
• Maintain inventory of equipment and parts.
• Receive, prioritize, and respond to incoming requests regarding equipment and/or connectivity problems.
• Accurately document instances of software or hardware failure, repair, installation, and removal, and other work requests while utilizing a trouble ticket system.
• Provide training and support to end users and staff on equipment operation and other issues.
• Develop and test disaster recovery plans to detect faults, minimize malfunctions, and backup systems.
• Assist in developing long-term strategies and capacity planning for meeting future communications needs.
• Assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining policies, procedures, and training plans for communication system's appropriate use.
• Assists in the planning, and designing of new installations, systems, and equipment.
• Attends training, as well as being self-directed in remaining current in RF and microwave network technology.
• Interact with equipment vendors.
• Interact with fire, law, EMS, and municipal agencies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Experience with analog and P25 digital, trunked, simulcast, repeater systems.
• Understanding of IP networks, including microwave, fiber, and traditional copper.
• Knowledge of Current communications Principles, Protocols, and Best Practices.
• Willingness to follow the organizations goals and objectives.
• Excellent Organizational, and Project Management Skills.
• Ability to Read and Interpret Technical Documentation and Procedure Manuals.
• Basic understanding of FCC rules and regulations.
• Ability to follow security and confidentiality procedures, guidelines and best practices.
• Must be able to Respond to Emergencies on a 24/7/365 Basis, including holidays.
• Ability to Physically Lift Equipment up to 50lbs.
• Ability to Solve Complex Problems.

Minimum Requirements

• Associate's Degree in a related field or Certificate in a Technical Program and 2 years of Relevant Job Experience, or an Equivalent Combination of Education and Experience
• Experience working with Land to Mobile Radio Communication Systems, preferably trunked radio systems
• Must have a Valid Driver's License

Conditions Of Employment

• Must agree to and pass a criminal background check.