Communications Systems Specialist

Job Summary

This integrated technical operations role supports statewide traffic and communications operations by coordinating Digital Messaging System (DMS) activations and managing radio communications assets. The role oversees planning, review, and processing of DMS message requests, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with agency priorities while preventing conflicts with active messaging. The position also assists with managing, programming, and logistics of handheld and vehicle-mounted radios, inventory tracking, equipment issuance, and maintenance of communications systems statewide. Serving as a liaison with vendors, technicians, and internal stakeholders, the position ensures radio readiness, situational awareness, and continuity of operations.

Job Duties

• Reviews, validates, and processes DMS activation requests received via email or other channels. Applies established criteria to evaluate appropriateness, safety impact, and alignment with operational objectives, ensuring messaging complies with ADOT standards and supports the traveling public.
• Captures and tracks DMS messages across statewide corridors to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and consistency. Prevents conflicting or duplicative activations by maintaining situational awareness of incidents, construction, and planned events, reducing confusion and enhancing roadway safety.
• Maintains a complete, current inventory of handheld radios, vehicle-mounted units, repeaters, and spare components. Tracks lifecycle status, initiates replacement planning, and coordinates warranty, repair, and service claims with vendors and procurement staff to ensure readiness and accountability.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)

• DMS operations, activation protocols, and ADOT policies
• Cameleon or comparable traffic, incident management, and messaging software platforms
• Google Workspace Suite applications for workflow coordination and collaboration
• General computer applications, databases, and office productivity tools
• Programming radio communications systems, including handheld, mobile, and dispatch equipment
• Geographic Information Systems, mapping tools, and traffic software
• State and federal transportation safety standards, practices, and procedures
• Principles of traffic management, traffic incident response, and public information dissemination
• Skill in reviewing, validating, and processing information with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
• Operating radio, telephone, dispatch, and traffic management systems
• Using Cameleon, Google Workspace, GIS, and related tools to manage, track, and document requests
• Organizing, prioritizing, and coordinating multiple requests in a time-sensitive environment
• Preparing inventory records, reports, and documentation related to communications equipment
• Coordinating equipment maintenance, repairs, and vendor support
• Communicating clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with internal and external stakeholders
• Analytical and critical thinking skills to resolve conflicts and competing operational priorities
• Selective Preference(s): Three years experience in traffic management, incident response, or public safety communications, skilled in multi-unit coordination and time-sensitive request management, proficient with Cameleon (or similar systems).

Pre-Employment Requirements

• AZ Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) required within 6 weeks
• National Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Responder Training (TIM) course required within 6 months
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) IS-100 required within 6 months
• Valid Driver's license

Benefits

• Sick leave
• Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program)
• Health and dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
• Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance

Contact Us

To ask questions about this career opportunity, please contact ADOT Human Resources Recruitment via email at srecruitment@azdot.gov or phone call at (602) 712-8188 option 2. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (602) 712-8188 option 3. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation. ADOT is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.